Cast: Sharvari, Abhay Verma, Mona Singh and S Sathyaraj

Director: Aditya Sarpotdar

Rating: **

"Munjya," is a horror comedy, that prioritizes humour over scares, often unintentionally so. This messy and muddled film requires a significant suspension of disbelief, which it fails to secure.

A Fourth Attempt by Maddock Films

Directed by Aditya Sarpotdar and written by Niren Bhatt, based on a story developed by Yogesh Chandekar, "Munjya" is the fourth supernatural film by Maddock Films, following "Stree," "Roohi," and "Bhediya." However, it falls short compared to the successful "Stree" and "Bhediya," and is only marginally better than "Roohi."

Missed Opportunities in Addressing Themes

While "Stree" and "Bhediya" delved into themes beyond mere horror, such as female empowerment and environmental conservation, "Munjya" fails to offer more than superficial humor and dark-themed terror. The film attempts to convey that facing one's fears leads to victory, as told to Bittu (Abhay Verma), a young man working in his mother's beauty salon who yearns for independence.

A Lengthy and Confusing Narrative

"Munjya" feels longer than its two-hour runtime due to its convoluted and hard-to-digest storyline. The plot revolves around Bittu's battle with a netherworld creature, with people suspecting him of drug use due to his nightmares. His overprotective mother, Pammi (Mona Singh), hinders his desire to find his own path, while the mischievous demon, Munjya, relentlessly pursues him.

The Backstory and Main Plot

Seventy years ago, in a picturesque Konkan village, a teenager smitten with an older girl dies soon after his mundan (head-shaving ceremony). His unfulfilled desire turns him into a ghoul seeking human sacrifice. This spirit, Munjya, follows Bittu from the forest to Pune in search of Munni, the girl he loved and lost. Bittu's childhood friend, Bela (Sharvari Wagh), becomes inadvertently involved, endangering her life.

Underwhelming Visual Effects

The film's visual effects are rudimentary, with a CGI creature resembling an impish Gremlin failing to instill fear. This creature, visible only to Bittu, insists on him completing its bidding, causing trouble for both Bittu and the film's narrative. The shifting forms of Munjya mirror the film's inconsistent tone, failing to establish a solid core.

Atmosphere and Execution

Despite the use of thunder, lightning, sea waves, ominous shadows, and a tentacled tree to create an eerie atmosphere, "Munjya" does not effectively immerse the audience in its fantastical tale. The CGI creature and the boy it torments evoke neither fear nor empathy. Bittu, with his cherubic Harry Potter-like look, must find the magic within to combat Munjya, yet this struggle fails to resonate.

Supporting Characters and Performances

Bittu's constant companion, Diljit Singh Dhillon "Spielberg" (a videographer aspiring to be a filmmaker), provides some comic relief. Late in the film, a charlatan exorcist, Elvis Karim Prabhakar, is introduced, adding to the chaotic plot. The story shifts back to the forest for the climax, resulting in a chaotic and unsatisfying conclusion.

A Potentially Better Fit for Animation

Cinematographer Saurabh Goswami captures the film with flair, yet the live-action approach undermines the story's inherent intrigue. Animation might have allowed for greater creative freedom, enhancing the folk legend-inspired narrative.

Acting and Overall Impact

The performances, particularly by Abhay Verma as Bittu, are commendable, with Mona Singh, Sharvari Wagh, and Suhas Joshi (as Bittu's Ajji) delivering adequate support. Despite their efforts, the film's chaotic storyline overshadows their performances.

Conclusion

"Munjya" is a film you want to escape from as much as Bittu wants to rid himself of the titular demon. Despite the evident effort put into its creation, the film fails to deliver a compelling or coherent experience, outliving its welcome well before the halfway mark.