Table of Contents
Released on August 31, 2018, Stree is a Hindi-language horror-comedy that became an instant hit with audiences and critics alike. Directed by Amar Kaushik and written by Raj Nidimoru and Krishna D.K., the film blends elements of supernatural horror with sharp humor. The movie features Rajkummar Rao and Shraddha Kapoor in lead roles and is based on a popular urban legend about a mysterious spirit haunting a small town. With its unique premise and clever storytelling, Stree offers a refreshing take on the horror genre while addressing some societal issues with subtlety and wit.
Plot Summary
The story of Stree unfolds in the quaint town of Chanderi, where a mysterious spirit, referred to as “Stree,” is said to haunt the streets during the annual festival season. This entity targets men, leaving behind only their clothes while abducting them. The protagonist, Vicky (Rajkummar Rao), is a skilled tailor who encounters a mysterious woman (Shraddha Kapoor) during the festival. As events unfold, Vicky and his friends get drawn into the mystery surrounding Stree, trying to uncover the truth behind the legend. The film weaves suspense, comedy, and drama, keeping viewers engaged without giving away too much too soon.
What’s Good?
One of the strongest aspects of Stree is its fresh and innovative storyline. The movie cleverly combines horror and comedy, making it accessible to a wide audience. Rajkummar Rao shines as Vicky, delivering a performance that’s equal parts charming and relatable. His comedic timing and emotional depth anchor the film, while Shraddha Kapoor adds an enigmatic touch with her subtle yet impactful portrayal of the mysterious woman.
The supporting cast, including Aparshakti Khurana, Abhishek Banerjee, and Pankaj Tripathi, adds layers of humor and intrigue to the narrative. Pankaj Tripathi’s role as Rudra, the local expert on Stree’s lore, is particularly memorable for its witty dialogues and deadpan delivery.
The direction by Amar Kaushik is noteworthy for maintaining a perfect balance between scares and laughs. The film’s screenplay, written by Raj Nidimoru and Krishna D.K., is peppered with sharp dialogues and clever social commentary, addressing themes like gender dynamics and superstition without being preachy.
Visually, Stree is a treat. The cinematography captures the eerie yet vibrant atmosphere of Chanderi, enhancing the supernatural elements of the story. The music and background score, composed by Sachin-Jigar, complement the film’s tone beautifully. Songs like “Milegi Milegi” and “Kamariya” became instant chartbusters, adding to the film’s overall appeal.
Strengths and Weaknesses
Strengths
- Innovative Premise: Stree stands out for its unique blend of horror and comedy, a genre not often explored in Indian cinema.
- Stellar Performances: The cast, led by Rajkummar Rao, delivers top-notch performances that bring the story to life.
- Direction and Writing: Amar Kaushik’s direction and the sharp screenplay by Raj Nidimoru and Krishna D.K. are key highlights.
- Music and Cinematography: The film’s visual and musical elements enhance its storytelling, creating a lasting impact.
Weaknesses
- Pacing Issues: The second half of the film feels slightly dragged, with a few scenes that could have been trimmed for a tighter narrative.
- Unanswered Questions: While the open-ended climax adds intrigue, it leaves some viewers craving more clarity about certain plot points.
Target Audience
Stree is a movie for anyone who enjoys a good mix of humor and horror. Fans of Rajkummar Rao and Shraddha Kapoor will appreciate their performances, while those looking for an unconventional Bollywood film will find it highly engaging. It’s suitable for families, though younger children may find some scenes spooky. The film’s social commentary also makes it appealing to viewers who enjoy thought-provoking cinema.
Box Office Details
Budget and Earnings
- Total Budget: Approximately ₹20 crore
- Worldwide Collection: Over ₹180 crore
Day-Wise Earnings (India and Overseas)
- Day 1: ₹6.82 crore (India) | ₹1.5 crore (Overseas)
- Day 2: ₹10.87 crore (India) | ₹2 crore (Overseas)
- Day 3: ₹14.38 crore (India) | ₹3 crore (Overseas)
- Day 4: ₹4.76 crore (India) | ₹1.2 crore (Overseas)
- Day 5: ₹3.85 crore (India) | ₹1 crore (Overseas)
The film’s success at the box office is a testament to its universal appeal and strong word-of-mouth promotion. It not only recovered its budget but also emerged as one of the highest-grossing films of 2018.
Recommendation
Stree is a must-watch for its fresh approach to storytelling, stellar performances, and perfect balance of horror and humor. It’s a film that entertains while subtly addressing societal issues, making it a standout entry in Bollywood’s horror-comedy genre. Highly recommended for a fun and thrilling movie night!
Genres:
Horror, Comedy
Rating:
6.9/10
Cast:
| Actor | Character |
|---|---|
| Rajkummar Rao | Vicky |
| Shraddha Kapoor | Unnamed Woman |
| Aparshakti Khurana | Bittu |
| Abhishek Banerjee | ‘Jana’ Janardan |
| Pankaj Tripathi | Rudra |
| Flora Saini | Stree |
| Atul Srivastava | Vicky’s Father |
| Vijay Raaz | Shastri |
| Badri Chavan | Lokesh |
| Aakash Dabhade | Narendra |
| Sunita Rajwar | Jana’s Mother |
| Arvind Bilgaiyan | Jana’s Father |
| Mehrunnisa Mustaqeem Khan | Durga |
| Ramkrishna Dhakad | Assistant Tailor |
| Abhishek Singh Rajput | Narendra’s Friend |
| Manoj Chaube | Panditji |
| Viren Basoya | Prakash |
| R.N. Shukla | Watchman |
| Kusumlata’s Shastri | Vicky’s Neighbour |
| Mushtaq Khan | Sarpanch |
| Nora Fatehi | Special Appearance in ‘Kamariya’ Song |
| Amar Kaushik | Homeless Stud |
| Kavita Thite | Vicky’s Mother (Archive Photo) |
How is Our Review?
Let us know if you liked our review of Stree through the comment box, so that we can keep creating such content for you.
