Director: Kussh Sinha
Rating: ***
With Nikita Roy, Kussh Sinha delivers a striking and self-assured directorial debut that stands out in the supernatural genre. Rather than leaning on familiar jump scares or overused horror tropes, Sinha opts for a more nuanced approach—crafting a thriller that is as thought-provoking as it is suspenseful. The film navigates themes of faith, emotional trauma, and the exploitation of spiritual belief with care and clarity. Much like a well-composed symphony, every element—from mood to character development—works in harmony, drawing the viewer into a psychologically rich experience that lingers long after the final frame.
Sonakshi Sinha’s Career-Defining Performance
At the heart of the film lies Sonakshi Sinha’s masterful portrayal of Nikita Roy, an author and rationalist who exposes fraudulent spiritual leaders. Grounded, composed, and emotionally rich, Sonakshi brings a nuanced humanity to a woman forced to confront a world she neither understands nor believes in. Her performance stands out not through theatrics, but through quiet intensity. This may very well be her finest work to date, balancing skepticism with vulnerability as she investigates the mysterious death of her brother.
A Gripping Opening That Sets the Tone
The film opens with Arjun Rampal’s character encountering an unexplainable dread that disrupts his otherwise ordinary life. This unsettling moment sets the stage for the psychological and supernatural tension that follows. The direction is confident, introducing discomfort not through visuals alone but through atmosphere and tone.
Supporting Cast Elevates the Narrative
Suhail Nayyar plays Nikita’s ex-partner, and his calm, composed performance adds depth to the narrative. Their on-screen chemistry is subtle but effective, enriching the storyline without detracting from the central plot. Together, they navigate a tense and uncertain path that slowly reveals the dark forces at play.
Paresh Rawal is exceptional as Amardev, a revered spiritual figure with sinister secrets. With his signature gravitas, Rawal offers a compelling contrast to Nikita’s rational worldview. His calm demeanor and hidden malevolence bring a layered complexity to the antagonist, making him both believable and terrifying.
A Refreshingly Subtle Directorial Approach
Kussh Sinha’s directorial style is marked by restraint and intelligence. He doesn’t resort to overused horror tropes or excessive visual flair. Instead, he lets the story and characters build the tension organically. The pacing is deliberate, allowing the fear to simmer and evolve, creating a slow-burning psychological thriller that rewards patience.
This mature approach is rare in mainstream Indian cinema, especially in the horror-thriller space. Sinha prioritizes tone, atmosphere, and character psychology over jump scares and noise—making Nikita Roy a standout in the genre.
Tight Screenplay and Atmospheric Cinematography
The screenplay by Pavan Kripalani is compact, precise, and emotionally resonant. Every line of dialogue has weight, and silence is used as a storytelling device—heightening tension and giving scenes a haunting stillness. The film carefully spaces out its reveals, keeping the audience intrigued without spoon-feeding the mystery.
Visually, the film is stunning. The cinematography paints a textured and moody palette, which enhances the film’s psychological tone. From dimly lit rooms to shadowed corridors, the visual design complements the script’s intent. Production design plays a crucial role in grounding the story—making even the supernatural elements feel rooted in reality.
Blending Genre with Thought-Provoking Substance
Nikita Roy transcends typical genre boundaries. It’s not merely a ghost story or a thriller with a climactic twist. It dives deeper—into the collapse of belief systems, the manipulation of faith for power, and the psychological toll of confronting unseen forces. The film compels its audience to question the fine line between spiritual experience and mental vulnerability.
This intelligent blending of genre and substance sets Nikita Roy apart. It trusts its audience to think, to interpret, and to feel—without offering easy answers.
High Production Values and Artistic Integrity
Backed by Nicky Vicky Bhagnani Films, Nikita Pai Films Ltd., and other prominent production houses, Nikita Roy benefits from top-tier production quality. The resources are evident in every frame—from the tight sound design to the detailed set construction. Yet, the film doesn’t rely on budget alone. It’s the vision and restraint of its director, the commitment of its cast, and the strength of its writing that give it weight.
Conclusion: A Rare and Intelligent Supernatural Thriller
Nikita Roy is more than just a film—it’s an experience. With outstanding performances, thoughtful direction, and a chillingly intelligent script, it redefines what supernatural cinema can be in India. It speaks to a mature audience that craves depth, not just thrills.
Sonakshi Sinha delivers a career-best performance. Kussh Sinha announces his arrival as a filmmaker with vision and control. And the film itself dares to explore dark psychological and spiritual territory with sophistication and courage.
