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Released on June 24, 2020, Bulbbul is a Hindi-language supernatural thriller with elements of drama and horror. Directed by Anvita Dutt and produced by Anushka Sharma, the movie takes viewers into a mysterious world of folklore and feminine power. Set in the backdrop of 19th-century Bengal, the film combines a haunting storyline with visual splendor, leaving an indelible mark on its audience. In this review, we explore Bulbbul’s narrative, technical brilliance, and overall impact while dissecting its strengths and weaknesses.
Plot Summary
Bulbbul follows the story of a young girl married into a wealthy zamindar family. As she grows older, the innocence of her youth is overshadowed by sinister secrets and events that transpire within the grand mansion. The narrative shifts between two timelines, unraveling the mystery of a supernatural entity haunting the village. While the movie masterfully weaves folklore with themes of oppression and justice, its true strength lies in the layers it reveals about its titular character. Without giving away spoilers, the film’s twists and turns keep viewers hooked until the final frame.
What’s Good?
1. Cinematography
The visual aesthetic of Bulbbul is nothing short of breathtaking. Cinematographer Siddharth Diwan uses a red-dominant color palette to create an eerie, dreamlike atmosphere. Every frame feels like a carefully composed painting, enhancing the story’s mystical tone.
2. Acting Performances
Triptii Dimri shines in the titular role, delivering a layered and nuanced performance. Her transformation from a wide-eyed girl to a commanding presence is both believable and poignant. Rahul Bose impresses in a dual role, bringing intensity and depth, while Avinash Tiwary’s understated portrayal as Satya complements the story perfectly. Paoli Dam and Parambrata Chatterjee also contribute significantly, rounding out the ensemble cast with powerful performances.
3. Direction and Screenplay
Anvita Dutt, making her directorial debut, handles the complex narrative with finesse. The screenplay is tightly written, with dialogues that resonate long after the movie ends. By seamlessly blending supernatural elements with social commentary, Dutt creates a story that feels both grounded and fantastical.
4. Music and Background Score
The haunting background score by Amit Trivedi elevates the storytelling, setting the mood for every scene. The music complements the visuals beautifully, adding layers to the unfolding drama.
5. Themes and Symbolism
Bulbbul stands out for its strong feminist undertones. The movie delves into issues like child marriage, patriarchy, and the subjugation of women, presenting them through a metaphorical lens. The supernatural element serves as a powerful allegory for justice and retribution, making the narrative all the more impactful.
Strengths and Weaknesses
Strengths:
- Engaging Narrative: The film’s non-linear storytelling keeps the audience intrigued.
- Visual Brilliance: The use of colors, lighting, and set design is unparalleled.
- Powerful Performances: Each actor brings depth and authenticity to their roles.
- Social Relevance: The themes explored are thought-provoking and relevant, making the story resonate on a deeper level.
Weaknesses:
- Pacing Issues: The movie’s slow pace in certain sections might not appeal to everyone.
- Predictability: While the narrative is engaging, some twists can be anticipated.
- Limited Horror Elements: For those expecting a full-fledged horror film, Bulbbul leans more toward drama and mysticism.
Target Audience
Bulbbul is perfect for viewers who appreciate artistic cinema with a blend of mystery and emotion. Fans of period dramas, feminist narratives, and psychological thrillers will find the movie immensely satisfying. However, those looking for fast-paced action or conventional horror might not connect with its unique storytelling style.
Box Office Details
Bulbbul was released directly on Netflix, bypassing a theatrical release due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Though it lacks traditional box office figures, here are some key details:
- Production Budget: Estimated at INR 30 crore.
- Worldwide Revenue: As a Netflix exclusive, Bulbbul contributed to the platform’s growing subscriber base and garnered widespread acclaim.
- Day-wise Popularity: While exact streaming data remains undisclosed, the movie trended in the top 10 across several countries for its first week of release.
Given its critical success and strong word-of-mouth, Bulbbul can be considered a commercial and cultural success despite the absence of box office statistics.
Recommendation
In conclusion, Bulbbul is a visually stunning and emotionally resonant film that redefines the supernatural thriller genre. With its captivating performances and powerful themes, it’s a must-watch for lovers of meaningful cinema. Highly recommended for its artistic brilliance and social relevance.
Genres:
Horror, Fantasy
Rating:
6.5/10
Cast:
| Actor | Character |
|---|---|
| Triptii Dimri | Bulbbul |
| Rahul Bose | Indranil / Mahendra |
| Avinash Tiwary | Satya |
| Parambrata Chatterjee | Sudip |
| Paoli Dam | Binodini |
| Varun Buddhadev | Little Satya |
| Ruchi Mahajan | Little Bulbbul |
| Sameer Deshpande | Bulbbul’s Father |
| Veera Kapur Ee | Pishima |
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