Original, unsettling & enveloped with a dreadful aura, Tumbbad is a wicked blend of fantasy & folklore that makes fab use of its rich & riveting mythology to deliver a dark, delirious nightmare, and is all the more strengthened by its claustrophobic set pieces, ominous camerawork & unrelenting score.
Directed by Rahi Anil Barve, the most impressive bit about his first feature is that it is devoid of the awful gimmicks that destroy most Bollywood horrors. It retains its Indian roots, relies on its chilling ambience to ratchet the tension, and doesn't go overboard with most elements, thus keeping the interest alive until the end.
The remote location, period setting, dilapidated sets, perpetual rain & pitch dark alleys contribute plenty in creating a sense of apprehension that keeps us riveted throughout. The sophisticated camerawork & menacing score further amplify the unsettling vibe. Performances, however, are a bit overdone and certainly could've used some restraint.
Overall, Tumbbad is a welcome entry in Bollywood horror with a level of maturity that most of its counterparts lack. Scoring high marks on storytelling & technical fronts, it is a polished piece of work that puts greater emphasis on atmosphere to derive the chills instead of resorting to tiresome clichés, and is neatly executed by the debutant filmmaker. Definitely worth a shot.
