Bulbbul

In 2020, Netflix released a hauntingly beautiful exploration of folklore, feminism, and fear in the form of the Indian film, Bulbbul. Set against the backdrop of 19th century Bengal, the movie blends elements of horror, romance, and drama, transcending genres to convey a powerful story about abuse, societal pressure, and vengeance. The film stars notable actors such as Triptii Dimri, Avinash Tiwary, and Rahul Bose, whose incredible performances bring vivid complexity to their characters and contribute significantly to the movie's engaging narrative and immersive atmosphere.

Bulbbul is the directorial debut of Anvita Dutt, an experienced lyricist and screenwriter with many successful projects under her belt. With a sharp eye for detail, Dutt infuses every scene with aesthetic precision, while the lush palette of cinematographer Siddharth Diwan paints a picture of ironic tranquillity, hiding in its placid beauty the undercurrent of repressed violence. The cinematography spectacularly captures the palatial havelis and lush landscapes of rural Bengal, offset by a striking montage of dusk and dawn.

Triptii Dimri delivers a masterful performance in the titular role of Bulbbul, a young, innocent, and inquisitive child bride. Married off to a much older man, Indranil, portrayed by Rahul Bose, Bulbbul navigates the complicated dynamics of her new family, which include Thakur's mentally challenged twin brother, Mahendra, and his wife, Binodini. Avinash Tiwary portrays Satya, Thakur's younger brother who is of the same age with Bulbbul, and with whom she shares a close bond.

As the narrative unfolds, the audience is introduced to the stark contrast between Bulbbul's initially vibrant spirit and the quiet, melancholic, yet commanding Thakurani she becomes a few years later. Bulbbul’s transformation is portrayed through a non-linear narrative, that unveils the mystery and suspense at its own masterful pace.

Rahul Bose takes on double roles as Indranil and Mahendra, and displays an incredible range by bringing two very distinct and equally crucial characters to life. His performance underscores the paradox of patriarchal societies where men can be both protectors and predators.

The narrative also incorporates a supernatural element. The rural setting is plagued by a series of brutal deaths blamed on a witch-like demon known as the "chudail". This folklore figure becomes a symbolic presence in the film, with its relevance increasing as events unfold, drawing a parallel with Bulbbul’s own life.

One of the key highlights of the film is its feminist take on horror. Through the character of Bulbbul and the chudail, the movie explores themes of female oppression, resilience, and revenge. It also highlights the poisonous roots of patriarchy and the damaging notion of a woman's worth being tied to her marriage.

Throughout the narrative, Bulbbul meaningfully engages in conversations about regressive societal norms, child marriage, and domestic abuse. Unlike the usual Indian horror narratives marked by melodrama, Bulbbul relies on evocative storytelling and the efficient use of silence and suspense to create a deeply unsettling atmosphere.

Bulbbul’s visual storytelling and sound design create an overwhelming sense of dread. The visual framework of the film is meticulously crafted, with every frame seeming like a painting with deeply hued tones of red symbolising love, rage and everything in between. The sound design strategically utilizes silence to accentuate the horror elements of the movie, diluting the line between the supernatural and reality.

There's also notable music in Bulbbul, led by the haunting vocals of singer Arijit Singh. The film’s lullaby, Bulbbul’s melody, resonates throughout the film, providing continuity between the past and the present.

In summary, Bulbbul is a hauntingly beautiful symphony of horror and folklore, underpinned by a strong feminist narrative that challenges societal norms. It disrupts the typical Indian horror narrative, infusing its story with exploration of the human psyche, societal critique, and remarkably unorthodox characters. This visually stunning film serves as both an engaging gothic thriller and a thought-provoking commentary on the harrowing consequences of patriarchy, making it an extraordinary addition to Indian cinema.