Aval

Aval is an Indian horror film released in 2017 that delves into the supernatural, offering an edge-of-the-seat, thrilling experience. The movie is directed by Milind Rau and boasts a talented and multi-faceted cast including Prakash Belawadi, Khushi Hajare, and Andrea Jeremiah.

The film is set in the picturesque landscapes, enveloped by misty mountains of the Himalayas, which provide a perfect backdrop for a chilling and thrilling horror flick. The story unfolds in a small village near the mountain where tranquillity reigns supreme in the daytime but things take an eerie turn as the shadows grow longer and night falls.

Prakash Belawadi, a stalwart in the Indian film industry, known for his transformative and engaging performances, plays a pivotal role in the movie. He plays a rationalist, a man known for his scientific temperament and insistence on logical explanations. His grounded and realistic portrayal stands in stark contrast to the supernatural elements prevalent in the movie, providing an excellent balance.

The movie unravels from the perspective of a young couple, played impressively by Khushi Hajare and Andrea Jeremiah. They are new to the town and soon find themselves embroiled in the eerie happenings that surround their quaint bungalow. Visually, the movie sends chills down the spine with well-executed special effects and a goosebump-inducing score that perfectly complements the hauntingly beautiful scenes.

Andrea Jeremiah, an accomplished singer and actor, delivers a memorable performance as the wife who becomes increasingly tormented by the unearthly occurrences in their new home. Her acting prowess is commendable, shifting deftly from a happy-go-lucky woman to a terror-stricken individual, trapped in a web of supernatural events, with ease.

Khushi Hajare gives an impressive performance as the loving husband, struggling to protect his wife from the eerie forces that pervade their home. Hajare's performance adds depth to the movie, portraying an array of emotions - from initial skepticism and disbelief to ultimate horror -extremely convincingly.

A standout aspect of Aval is the unique handling of the horror genre by director Milind Rau. Unlike many Indian horror movies that often depend heavily on jump scares and unnecessary graphical violence, Aval is woven with a blood-curdling narrative that relies more on psychological fright. The elements of surprise are well-timed, going beyond the usual clichés and contributing to an overall exhilarating cinematic experience.

The film capitalizes on the fear of the unknown, interweaving real-life emotions with paranormal events. It delves into the psyche of the characters caught up in frightening encounters, to portray how their fear manifests itself and impacts their response to the supernatural. The plot is finely tuned and maintains a tight grip throughout, keeping you guessing and holding your breath.

Additionally, the screenplay is excellently written and the narrative is packed with suspense and mystery that keeps audiences on the edge till the very end. The movie also enjoys a stellar background score that adds to the overbearing sense of terror and suspense, enhancing every scene and magnifying the fear factor.

The cinematography of the film is worth mentioning. The beauty of the location doesn’t become a mere backdrop. Instead, it actively contributes to the scary and chilling theme with its engulfing forests and foggy atmosphere. The intricately designed sets and atmospheric lighting create an immersive and chilling environment, heightening the sense of dread and fear.

In conclusion, Aval is an atmospheric horror film that effectively uses storytelling, cinematography, sound design, and outstanding performances to inspire fear. It goes beyond traditional horror cinema, providing a deeper, more psychological insight into fear and its manifestations. This bold venture of Indian horror cinema takes the audience on a thrilling roller-coaster ride that they won't forget anytime soon. Aval is a must-watch for horror enthusiasts who are looking for a spine-chilling experience with an intriguing narrative.