Review of “Shaitaan”: Despite an Engaging First Half, the Film Leaves Viewers Wanting More
On March 8, 2024, theaters debuted “Shaitaan,” the Hindi adaptation of the popular Gujarati film “Vash.”
With the release of the film’s trailer, fans anticipated a captivating supernatural drama, a genre that Bollywood has been lacking. While the writer-director duo succeeded in captivating audiences in the initial half, the narrative loses steam as the story progresses.
Plot:
Ajay Devgn portrays Kabir, a content family man, whose encounter with Vanraj, played by R Madhavan, at a roadside dhaba sparks intrigue. Despite Vanraj’s outward simplicity and kindness, his intentions are sinister. After subtly poisoning Janvhi, Kabir’s daughter, Vanraj follows them to their farmhouse, manipulating her into disturbing actions.
Though the film establishes a palpable sense of danger early on, it falters due to an incomplete screenplay. Screenwriter Aamil Keeyan Khan fails to sustain the narrative’s momentum, resulting in a lackluster second half.
While the first half effectively builds tension, Madhavan’s character resorts to exaggerated scare tactics in the latter half, diminishing the film’s impact. However, “Shaitaan” offers a compelling mix of action and drama, seamlessly blending elements of mysticism and suspense.
R Madhavan delivers a standout performance as the menacing antagonist, instilling genuine fear with his portrayal. Conversely, Ajay Devgn’s role as a helpless parent falls short of expectations.
The film’s saving grace lies in the performances of its female leads, particularly Jyotika’s portrayal of a distraught mother. Despite its shortcomings, “Shaitaan” satisfies the craving for a gripping supernatural thriller in Hindi cinema.
