Tumbbad movie

 Tumbbad (2018) Movie Review: A Spine-Chilling Journey into Greed and Mythology

Title: Tumbbad
Release Date: October 12, 2018
Director: Rahi Anil Barve
Cast: Sohum Shah, Mohammad Samad, Jyoti Malshe
Language: Hindi
Genre: Horror, Fantasy, Thriller

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Introduction:
When it comes to Indian cinema, few films have managed to leave a lasting impression as powerfully as Tumbbad. This 2018 release, directed by Rahi Anil Barve, is a blend of horror, fantasy, and folklore, making it a unique entry in Bollywood’s often underutilized horror genre. Based on a mythical tale that explores the darkest depths of human greed, Tumbbad is a cinematic experience that haunts you long after the credits roll.

Plot Overview:

Tumbbad is set in the backdrop of a rural village in Maharashtra during British India. The story revolves around a young boy, Vinayak Rao, and his quest to unearth a hidden treasure guarded by the cursed deity, Hastar. Hastar, the firstborn of the goddess of prosperity, was banished from the pantheon for his insatiable greed to possess all the world’s wealth and food. However, Vinayak’s obsession with the treasure of Hastar leads him down a terrifying path of darkness, greed, and the supernatural.

The film spans multiple decades, from Vinayak’s childhood to his adulthood, as he battles with his inner demons and the consequences of his insatiable desire for wealth. What starts as a simple tale of treasure hunting soon evolves into a much more profound narrative on human greed, moral decay, and the cost of desires.

Direction and Screenplay:

Rahi Anil Barve’s direction is nothing short of brilliant. He meticulously crafts a world that feels both fantastical and horrifyingly real. The pacing of the film is slow but deliberate, allowing the audience to soak in the eerie atmosphere of Tumbbad. The screenplay, co-written by Barve, Mitesh Shah, and Anand Gandhi, is a masterstroke in storytelling. It successfully intertwines folklore, horror, and morality, creating a narrative that is layered and thought-provoking.

The non-linear storytelling adds depth to the film, making the viewers piece together the story as it progresses. The way the narrative slowly reveals the mystery surrounding Hastar and the treasure is handled with precision, maintaining suspense throughout.

Cinematography and Visual Effects:

One of the most striking aspects of Tumbbad is its cinematography. Shot by Pankaj Kumar, the film is visually stunning. The constant rain-soaked village of Tumbbad, the gloomy interiors of crumbling mansions, and the eerie caves where the treasure is hidden are all captured beautifully. Every frame of the film feels rich in detail, adding to the atmosphere of dread and foreboding. The color palette is dominated by earthy tones, which enhances the period setting and gives the film a gritty, immersive feel.

The visual effects are also top-notch, especially in creating the monstrous deity Hastar. The practical and digital effects used to bring Hastar to life are eerie and grotesque, making the god of greed a truly horrifying presence on screen. The sequences inside the underground vault, where Vinayak confronts Hastar, are particularly memorable for their nightmarish quality.

Performances:

• Sohum Shah, who also produced the film, delivers a career-defining performance as Vinayak Rao. His portrayal of a man consumed by greed is both haunting and nuanced. As his character ages and becomes more obsessed with the treasure, Sohum Shah masterfully conveys the moral decay and madness that slowly overtakes him.
• Mohammad Samad plays Pandurang, Vinayak’s son, with sincerity and skill. His character represents the next generation, caught in the same cycle of greed and consequences as his father.
• Jyoti Malshe and the supporting cast also do justice to their roles, adding to the film’s grounded and realistic portrayal of rural life in the early 20th century.

Themes and Symbolism:

At its core, Tumbbad is a film about greed and its consequences. The character of Hastar himself is a symbol of unbridled greed, punished for his desire to hoard both gold and food. Vinayak’s obsession with the treasure mirrors this, as he continues to pursue wealth despite the horrific dangers involved. The cyclical nature of greed, passed down from father to son, is one of the film’s central themes.

The film also explores the mythological aspect of Indian folklore, which is not often seen in mainstream cinema. By blending real history (colonial India) with mythical elements, Tumbbad creates a rich, textured world that feels both familiar and otherworldly.

Additionally, the use of rain as a motif throughout the film is worth noting. The constant rain in Tumbbad is not just a backdrop but a symbol of the never-ending cycle of greed, corruption, and decay that plagues the characters and the village.

Music and Sound Design:

The soundtrack by Ajay-Atul and Jesper Kyd is minimal but effective. Rather than overpowering the visuals, the music complements the eerie, tense atmosphere of the film. The use of traditional Indian instruments adds authenticity to the period setting, while the haunting melodies elevate the film’s supernatural elements.

The sound design is particularly noteworthy in the underground sequences, where silence and sudden noises are used to create an atmosphere of tension and fear. The sound of chains, footsteps, and Hastar’s growls adds a visceral layer to the horror, making those moments even more terrifying.

Impact and Legacy:

Tumbbad is a rare gem in Indian cinema. It stands out not just because it’s a horror film but because of how it redefines the genre. By blending mythology with horror and fantasy, the film offers a fresh, bold narrative that doesn’t rely on cheap jump scares. Instead, it builds tension through its atmosphere, storytelling, and deep themes.

The film received critical acclaim and has since become a cult classic. Its exploration of human greed and the consequences of unchecked desires resonate with audiences long after the film ends. For those who appreciate slow-burn horror with a philosophical edge, Tumbbad is an unforgettable experience.

Conclusion:

Tumbbad is more than just a horror film. It’s a thought-provoking exploration of greed, mythology, and the human condition. With its stunning visuals, haunting performances, and rich themes, it stands as one of the best Indian films of the decade. If you’re a fan of horror or simply appreciate well-crafted cinema, Tumbbad is a must-watch.