Bhoothnath Returns is a kids’ film that at least some of us adults must watch this election season. Though it is a tad too naïve and preachy, and a little too long for it's own good, the film attempts to make a point that a number of us can learn from; it is a well-acted film with some genuine moments.
Bhoothnath Returns: ‘Ab Ki Baar – Definetly “Bhoothnath” Ki Hi Sarkaar’
Expectations:
In our country, movies related to kids were termed as ‘kids flick’ or ‘cartoon films’. There used to be some occasional kids loving films like ‘Bhramachari’, ‘Mr.India’, ‘Koi Mil Gaya’ and few more. But with films like ‘Hanuman’, ‘My Friend Ganesha’ ‘Taare Zameen Par’ & ‘Bhoothnath’ the whole genre found its deserved existence in our country as they were loved by both children as well as adults. Speaking about ‘Bhoothnath’, it was a trendsetter in its own way, as before this movie we never witnessed a superstar actor working in such type of films. Amitabh Bachchan is known for his path breaking contribution in our Hindi film industry and ‘Bhoothnath’ too, was one of them. The movie turned out to be a total vacation treat at that time and also incepted the fourth generation of fans for Amitabh Bachchan. Now, after a huge gap Mr.Bachchan reappears with a sequel of ‘Bhoothnath’ in the form of ‘Bhoothnath Returns’. Right from its first promo, movie lovers were totally excited to see this movie due to the political satire attached to it. So let’s find out whether ‘Bhoothnath Returns’ will pass the acid test of high expectations attached to it due to its past glory and a fantastic promo or might be among all those films which were made only to cash in over its predecessor’s success.
Story:
‘Bhoothnath Returns’ carries forward the story of Kailashnath alias Bhoothnath (Amitabh Bachchan) who is send back to human world by the officials of Bhooth World, so that he can scare some people and fulfill his duties of being a ghost. In order to scare some kids, Bhoothnath meets Akhrot (Parth Bhalerao), who can hear and see him unlike others. Bhoothnath helps Akhrot earn some quick money with the help of his powers and skills, until they meet a corrupt local politician Bhaou (Boman Irani). Due to some reasons, Bhoothnath decides to stand against Bhaou in the local elections and what happens next is what the entire film is all about.
Screenplay & Technicalities:
The story is refreshingly different and totally engaging. Right from the first scene, it keeps you glued to the silver screen and despite of having an unrealistic theme, the movie seems believable due to a fantastic writing attached to it. There are many fantastic scenes such as the whole Bhooth World process followed by Amitabh Bachchan trying to scare the kids, Amitabh Bachchan-Parth first meet followed by their meet with insurance officer, Amitabh Bachchan seeking Sanjay Mishra’s advice for election, Anuraag Kashyap’s track, Amitabh Bachchan scaring Boman Irani followed by Boman-Amitabh Bachchan’s tiff on T.V, Amitabh Bachchan’s public speech followed by his talk to the head of Bhooth Word leading to Amitabh Bachchan-Sanjay Mishra’s description of the election process and many more, which keep you amused as well as engaged in the film. The dialogues are stunning and manage to give a smile on your face as well as a lump in the throat. There is so much positivity attached to the film that there is hardly any scope for negative points except for the end credits as you don’t want the movie to end. The narration style could have been a little crispier as at times it tends to slow down. In addition, the ghost acceptance is shown very easily. Camera work is good and does full justice to the flow of the film.
Music & Direction:
The movie is co-produced under the banner of ‘T-Series’ and thus the music ought to be good. ‘Bhoothnath Returns’ has chartbuster songs like ‘Party Toh Banti Hain’ and ‘Har Har Gange’. These songs are foot tapping and carries the feel of an Amitabh Bachchan type of song. ‘Sahib’ will bring tears in your eyes as the whole situation of our country is explained in this one song. ‘Dharavi Rap’ is entertaining. ‘Party With The Bhoothnath’ in the end credits is welcomed.
Director Nitesh Tiwari brings us a wonderful sequel of ‘Bhoothnath’, in the form of ‘Bhoothnath Returns’. From kids to the adults, Nitesh gratifies to every age group as his movie has a lot to offer for everyone. The message attached to the movie is portrayed in such an entertaining manner that it never seemed forced or verbose. ‘Bhoothnath Returns’ raises many questions which have been going on in many people’s mind related to elections, voting and the current happenings of our country. Unlike other films, it also tries to answer many of our queries and shows us a beautiful future for the betterment of our country.
Performances:
Speaking about the performances, we all know about the fantastic caliber of Mr.Amitabh Bachchan and that he does full justice to it. He is prodigious in his performance and will fascinate you with his comical, emotional, dramatic and dancing scenes. He is cute when he is with kids, ferocious against his opponent and sensitive in the emotional scenes. Such is the power and charisma of this ace actor. Along with Mr.Bachchan the movie also belongs to Parth Bhalerao who is outstanding in every scene. His dialogue delivery and expressions are mind blowing. He compliments Amitabh Bachchan with his natural and lovable performance. Boman Irani is great in his role and does full justice to it. Sanjay Mishra and Gajraj Rao lend great support in their character roles. Brijendra Kale, Usha Jadhav, Kamlesh Sawant, Vijay Maurya, D.Santosh and others essays their part with total grace. The cameos by Anuraag Kashyap, Ranbir Kapoor and Shah Rukh Khan are lovable.
Final Verdict: So bol meri ‘Filmi Khopdi’ iss film mein kitna hain Dum?
Dum? Well, this movie has lots of dum that is required for any feel good type of film. ‘Bhoothnath Returns’ is not only restricted to kids, but also appeals to the adult audiences. Just like a homeopathy pill, this movie too, caters the bitter reality of our country in a sweet and entertaining format. The movie releases during the election time being a perfect booster for everyone. It is a must watch for all Amitabh Bachchan fans as well as for good movie lovers. If wishes do come true then let us all wish, “ab ki baar definitely ‘Bhoothnath’ ki hi sarkaar” which will wipe away our miseries for a better India.
Ratings: 4.25/5 by Divya Solgama on moviezadda.com