#OneWordReview... #BhoothBangla: ENTERTAINER. Rating: ⭐️⭐⭐️½ An entertainer that works for most parts... The #AkshayKumar - #Priyadarshan combo doesn't disappoint – the chills and chuckles are in equal measure. #BhoothBanglaReview The initial sequences may give an impression that #BhoothBangla borrows from #RajkumarKohli's massive hit #JaaniDushman [1979; #SunilDutt, #SanjeevKumar, #ShatrughanSinha, #Jeetendra], but the similarities end with the newly-wed brides being targeted. #BhoothBangla blends horror and comedy across its 2.45-hour narrative, with the first half leaning towards humour, while the post-interval portions delve into a darker past. The humour works, although a few sequences may come across as slightly naughty... It's the eerie atmosphere that forms the backbone, while the attention-grabbing VFX enhances the film's visual appeal. #Priyadarshan, known for his impeccable comic timing, ensures the narrative remains engaging, although [i] the writing could've been sharper and [ii] the runtime could've been tighter. The backstory in the second half evokes memories of #BhoolBhulaiyaa... However, the onscreen presentation could have been simpler. To his credit, the veteran storyteller keeps you hooked, springing surprises at regular intervals – with the interval twist delivering a major, unexpected jolt. #AkshayKumar is in top form... His comic timing, expressions, and effortless switch between fear and humour are a delight to watch. #Tabu is effective, although an actress of her calibre deserved more power-packed moments... #WamiqaGabbi barely gets any scope... Ditto for #MithilaPalkar, who has limited screen time. It's #PareshRawal and #RajpalYadav who deliver several laugh-out-loud moments – both excel... The late #Asrani leaves a mark. #BhavnaPani is too good... #JisshuSengupta, #ZakirHussain, and #RajeshSharma are competent, as always... #ManojJoshi is wasted. The soundtrack is a mixed bag – #RamjiAakeBhalaKarenge stands out, while the remaining songs range from decent to okay. ⭐️ Final word? Worth a watch for its genuinely funny moments and a fair share of eerie chills.
