Boldly blending chilling horror with real-world trauma, Aditya Suhas Jambhale’s ‘Baramulla’ grips viewers with layered performances and a haunting look at the scars of violence.
Baramulla is a gripping supernatural thriller that skillfully blends psychological horror with a poignant political subtext, anchored by Manav Kaul’s compelling performance. The film, directed by Aditya Suhas Jambhale, sets its story in the hauntingly beautiful yet troubled landscape of Kashmir, weaving together the region’s tragic history with a chilling narrative of family, loss, and redemption.
Plot and Themes
Baramulla centers on DSP Ridwaan Shafi Sayyed (Manav Kaul), a Muslim police officer who moves to Baramulla with his family, only to be confronted by both supernatural occurrences and the grim realities of terrorism and child kidnappings in the region. The film explores the psychological trauma of its characters, the impact of extremism, and the lingering wounds of Kashmir’s past, particularly the exodus of Kashmiri Pandits in the 1990s. The supernatural elements are not just for scares—they serve as metaphors for the unresolved grief and violence that haunt the valley.
Performances and Direction
Manav Kaul delivers a nuanced and emotionally resonant performance, portraying both the vulnerability and authority of a man caught between duty and personal tragedy. Bhasha Sumbli, as his wife Gulnar, brings quiet strength and warmth to her role, while child actors Arista Mehta and Rohaan Singh impress with their natural performances. Director Aditya Suhas Jambhale deserves credit for attempting a bold fusion of political commentary and supernatural horror, even if the execution occasionally falters in pacing and emotional depth.
Cinematography and Atmosphere
The film’s cinematography, led by Arnold Fernandes, captures the eerie beauty of Kashmir with misty landscapes and a suffocating atmosphere that mirrors the characters’ inner turmoil. The use of minimal lighting and grey tones enhances the sense of dread, while the background score and art design contribute to the film’s unsettling mood.
Strengths and Weaknesses
Baramulla stands out for its ambition and sincerity, offering a rare blend of supernatural thrills and socio-political commentary. The film’s strengths lie in its performances, atmospheric visuals, and its attempt to address complex themes. However, some viewers note that the pacing can be sluggish, and certain subplots feel underdeveloped. The emotional impact is sometimes weakened by overly dramatic touches, but the overall intent is commendable.
Final Verdict
Baramulla is a thought-provoking and haunting film that will appeal to fans of psychological horror and those interested in stories with a strong political subtext. While it may not be flawless, its ambition and performances make it a noteworthy addition to the genre. Highly recommended for viewers seeking a film that goes beyond mere scares to explore deeper human and societal issues.
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