Vantage Point presents Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 Review: A Franchise Let Down by Weak Writing and Missed Opportunities

The much-anticipated Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 hit theaters in 2024, carrying the weight of a successful franchise on its shoulders. However, instead of building on the eerie charm and humor that made its predecessors iconic, the third installment stumbles with a lackluster script, underwhelming performances, and wasted potential.

Story and Script: Recycling the Familiar

At its core, Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 attempts to weave a supernatural mystery with comedic undertones, but the story fails to deliver. The plot feels recycled, with predictable twists and an over-reliance on clichéd jump scares that lack the spine-chilling impact expected from the genre. Suspense and intrigue—key elements of the franchise’s earlier success—are noticeably absent, leaving viewers disengaged.

The climax, meant to provide a shocking twist, instead feels contrived and underwhelming. Fans of the series will likely be disappointed by the film’s inability to capture the narrative complexity and psychological tension that defined its predecessors.

Cast Performances: Talented Actors, Underwhelming Roles

• Kartik Aaryan reprises his role with energy but feels miscast. His comedic timing and charisma, which worked in Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2, falter here due to uninspired writing.
• Madhuri Dixit & Vidya Balan gives a decent performance but is hampered by an underdeveloped character. Their role lacks depth, making their contribution feel superficial.
• Rajpal Yadav, Sanjay Mishra, and Vijay Raaz—stalwarts of Indian comedy—are severely underutilized. Their talents are wasted on poorly crafted jokes that fail to land, leaving audiences yearning for the sharp humor that these actors are known for.

Special Mention: Tripti Dimri Shines in a Limited Role

In an otherwise lackluster film, Tripti Dimri is a bright spot. Despite limited screen time, her presence elevates the scenes she’s in, bringing an understated elegance and depth that hints at what the film could have achieved with stronger writing. Her nuanced performance is a reminder of the film’s missed potential and leaves audiences wishing her character had been given more prominence.

Comedy and Horror: A Fragile Balance

The hallmark of the Bhool Bhulaiyaa franchise has been its ability to blend comedy with horror seamlessly. Unfortunately, the third installment struggles to strike that balance. The humor feels forced and often cringeworthy, detracting from the overall experience. On the horror front, the scares are superficial and fail to leave a lasting impression.

Verdict: A Missed Opportunity

Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 fails to live up to the expectations set by its predecessors. The weak script, uninspired humor, and predictable plot leave it as a forgettable entry in an otherwise beloved franchise. Despite a talented cast and the occasional standout moment, the film is a disappointment for fans of the series.

Rating: 2/5

While the film may attract some viewers due to its legacy, it ultimately serves as a reminder that strong storytelling and well-rounded characters are essential to keeping a franchise alive. For now, Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 leaves us hoping for a stronger and more thrilling return in the future.