Baramulla Movie Review: A Unique Supernatural Journey in Kashmir
Rating: 3.5/5
Star Cast
Featured Actors: Manav Kaul, Bhasha Sumbli
Director
The film is directed by Aditya Suhas Jambhale, who skillfully navigates the eerie landscape of Baramulla.
Synopsis of Baramulla
Baramulla takes viewers on a supernatural adventure set against the stunning backdrop of Kashmir. The plot kicks off in November 2016 when a 13-year-old boy named Shoaib Ansari (portrayed by Ahmad Ishaq) mysteriously vanishes in Baramulla. This incident escalates in urgency as Shoaib is the son of a local MLA (played by Mir Sarwar). As the search intensifies, Ridwaan Sayyed (played by Manav Kaul) is appointed DSP of Baramulla a month later, tasked with uncovering the truth behind Shoaib’s disappearance. Accompanied by his family—wife Gulnaar (Bhasha Sumbli), son Ayaan (Rohaan Singh), and daughter Noorie (Arista Mehta)—Ridwaan settles into a vintage mansion, guarded by the mute caretaker, Iqbal (Khurshid Mir). As the family adapts to their new surroundings, they sense an unsettling presence within the house. With the mysterious disappearance of another child from a nearby lake, Ridwaan finds himself in a race against time to protect his own children from becoming victims of an uncanny threat. What unfolds next shapes the gripping narrative of the film.
Story Analysis
The story, crafted by Aditya Dhar and Aditya Suhas Jambhale, is a refreshing take on the supernatural genre in Indian cinema. The screenplay, co-written by Aditya Suhas Jambhale and Monal Thaakar, captivates viewers with its intricate plot. While the dialogues resonate with realism and even deliver moments of humor, a few narrative threads remain unresolved, drawing attention to potential inconsistencies. Despite these minor lapses, the film’s direction is noteworthy; Jambhale expertly manages pacing, keeping the runtime to a concise 112 minutes. He weaves various subplots—mysterious disappearances, haunting sensations, and a looming terrorist threat—into a coherent narrative that pulls the audience into an atmospheric thriller.
The climactic moments of the film are particularly gripping, with a shocking twist that leaves viewers reevaluating previous assumptions. Nonetheless, some questions linger: why do these eerie occurrences unfold at a delayed pace? Had the previous tenants not sensed the mansion’s haunting history? Additionally, the relationship between Noorie and Khalid Dar (Aswini Koul) feels abruptly developed, suggesting that more depth could have enriched their narrative arc.
Performance Highlights
Manav Kaul’s performance is characterized by a strong portrayal conveyed through minimal dialogue, where his silences speak volumes. He effectively embodies the character’s vulnerability without resorting to melodrama. Bhasha Sumbli shines once again, providing a remarkable performance reminiscent of her previous role in The Kashmir Files (2022). Arista Mehta portrays her complex role with finesse, while Rohaan Singh and Ahmad Ishaq also deliver commendable performances. Mir Sarwar’s role is somewhat limited, yet effective, while Khurshid Mir supports well in his caretaker role. The casting of Aswini Koul and Shahid Lateef (Juneid Shaikh) adds depth and humor, enhancing the viewing experience. Neelofar Hamid (playing Zainab, the teacher) delivers a satisfactory performance, and Sanjay Suri’s cameo as Sharad Sapru brings an endearing touch to the film.
Music and Technical Aspects
In terms of music, Shor Police’s compositions may not leave a lasting impression, but the background score significantly elevates the emotional weight of critical scenes. Arnold Fernandes’ cinematography is a standout feature, capturing the film’s haunting interiors and breathtaking vistas of Kashmir, intensifying the tension during pivotal moments. Production design by Monica Balsara and costumes by Shivangi Shrivastava authentically reflect the region’s culture, further immersing viewers in the narrative. The realistic action sequences, designed by Vicky Arora, contribute to the film’s thrilling atmosphere. Moreover, the visual effects orchestrated by Divinity Pictures and Identical Brains meet high industry standards, while Shivkumar V Panicker’s editing ensures a smooth flow of the story.
Final Thoughts
Overall, Baramulla stands out as a groundbreaking film that skillfully merges supernatural themes with the socio-political realities of Kashmir. Its unique storytelling and compelling performances make it a must-watch for audiences seeking something beyond conventional cinema. This film is a thoughtful exploration of fear, family, and the underlying mysteries that prevail in the haunting beauty of Kashmir. If you’re interested in supernatural narratives intertwined with a touching human experience, Baramulla is highly recommended for you.
