Netflix's 'Baramulla' Movie Review
Director: Aditya Suhas Jambhale
Cast: Manav Kaul, Bhasha Sumbli, Arista Mehta, Rohaan Singh, Masoom Mumtaz Khan, Ashwini Koul, Mir Sarvar, Vikas Shukla
Overview
Baramulla explores a sensitive and intriguing topic: the mysterious disappearance of children amid supernatural events in a remote, snow-covered town. DSP Ridwaan Sayyed (Manav Kaul) is assigned to the case, only to find his own family drawn into the dark mystery surrounding the house where he stays.
Story and Setting
The story begins with a young boy vanishing during a magic show, with the magician becoming the initial suspect. More children go missing over time, deepening the suspense. The film is notable for its realistic portrayal of Baramulla, avoiding the usual Bollywood romanticization of the locale.
"Nestled deep within a beautiful valley lies the snow-covered, slow-paced city of Baramulla, where rumours and legends intertwine with reality."
Critique
While Manav Kaul delivers a strong performance, the film suffers from uneven storytelling that undermines its serious theme. The narrative pace and coherence feel inconsistent, leaving the potential of the subject matter unfulfilled.
"A movie with a serious theme could have been made better. Shoddy storytelling massacred the film."
Visuals
The visual representation is a highlight, with the filmmakers opting not to glamorize the setting, instead showing a raw and authentic environment.
Summary
Baramulla tackles a compelling subject but falls short due to flawed storytelling, despite impressive acting and realistic visuals.
Author’s summary: Manav Kaul shines in Baramulla, a film with a worthy premise undermined by weak storytelling and lost opportunities to deepen its haunting narrative.