Tumbbad

Tumbbad, a visually striking and audacious horror film, was released in India in 2018 under the direction of Rahi Anil Barve with co-direction by Adesh Prasad. Sohum Shah takes on the lead role, while Jyoti Malshe and Anita Date-Kelkar assume significant supporting roles. The film is steeped in dark mysticism, penetrating archetypal horror themes with a unique and innovative approach.

Set in the backdrop of a small village named Tumbbad, the narrative unfolds starting from the 19th century pre-independence period extending to mid-20th century India. The film's protagonist, Vinayak Rao (played by Sohum Shah) is introduced as a young boy who lives with his mother and younger brother. Vinayak's mother serves as the caretaker for his grandmother, who is bed-ridden and seemingly cursed. The family resides in a dilapidated, gloomy mansion that appears to be more of a haunted house than a home. This eerie setting lays the groundwork for the film’s creepy, chilling ambiance.

The early part of the film establishes a legend about the forgotten god Hastar, who was banished into oblivion for his greed - an invaluable piece of information that links to the unfolding horror. The narrative primarily revolves around Vinayak's greed and obsession with the mythical treasure said to be hidden within his ancestral estate.

Sohum Shah breathes life into Vinayak Rao, portraying his progression from a curious, ambitious youth to a hardened, obsessed man perfectly. His journey is filled with disturbing realities, seeping horror, and desperate ventures into the dreaded womb of the earth for wealth. He aptly exhibits the character's eventual moral erosion in the face of relentless greed and obduracy.

In supporting roles, Jyoti Malshe, who plays Vinayak's mother, and Anita Date-Kelkar, who plays Vinayak's wife, contribute substantially to the narrative. Their performances articulate the ordeal faced by women in a male-dominant society and add depth to the storyline.

Tumbbad relies heavily on its atmospheric horror, which is skillfully created through the combination of its picturesque cinematography and precise production design. The film's visual palette ranges from grayish, gloomy downpours to vibrant, richly adorned interiors, highlighting the contrasting themes of poverty, greed, opulence, and decay.

The fright factor in Tumbbad isn't from jump scares or paranormal occurrences typical of the horror genre, but instead from the intense, haunting dread that runs as an undercurrent throughout the film. The cinematography, complimented by the melodious albeit gloomy score, helps to maintain this tension. Kudos to the art and design team for crafting a world that is mesmerizing and terrifying at the same time.

The plot weaves social reality effectively into fantasy, creating a blend of period drama, folklore, and horror. Through the background of Tumbbad, the film subtly comments on social issues like greed, avarice, colonialism, and the ramifications of the patriarchal system. This adds an extra layer of depth, making this film more than just a horror-drama.

The directors must be appreciated for their audacious depiction of the horror genre, which is a rarity in the Indian film industry. They manage to sustain a sense of unease and anticipation throughout the movie, keeping the audience engaged till the very end. The screenplay needs to be appreciated for its detailed character development and well-crafted storyline.

The narrative of Tumbbad is non-linear, employing flashbacks in the story, unfolding the gradual manifestation of greed and fear. The dialogues are noteworthy, laden with the flavor of the period, yet never overwhelming. Furthermore, the movie's climax leaves us with a paradoxical blend of satisfaction and introspection.

Tumbbad is a fantastical horror film that is as horrifyingly intriguing as it is visually stunning. It breaks conventional boundaries of the genre, creating an unparalleled cinematic experience. With a crackerjack performance from Sohum Shah and compelling storytelling, Tumbbad pushes the envelope of Indian cinema, delivering an original, thought-provoking film. Undoubtedly, it is a work of art that will linger in your thoughts long after the curtains are drawn.