Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 Movie Review: A Festive Mix of Laughs, Scares, and Star Power

Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 brings back the beloved mix of horror and comedy that fans expect, this time under the direction of Anees Bazmee. Building on the franchise’s classic haunted mansion setup, Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 introduces us to Ruhaan, aka Rooh Baba (Kartik Aaryan), a cheeky conman who finds himself facing not one, but two ghostly forces with a shared identity crisis tied to the menacing Manjulika.

Bazmee, who is known for lighthearted ensemble comedies like Welcome and No Entry, brings a different flavor to the horror-comedy genre, departing from the tense psychological tone of Priyadarshan’s 2007 original. The film’s tone is largely comedic, peppered with horror elements, and Bazmee skillfully navigates this terrain. However, the screenplay, while engaging, hits a few static moments where the jokes don’t land as effectively, and certain scenes feel prolonged. The pace slows a bit during the buildup, but a surprising twist in the climax revitalizes the narrative, lending a mature layer to this mass entertainer. The attention to art direction and high production value are noticeable improvements, making for an enjoyable visual experience.

Kartik Aaryan shines as Rooh Baba, carrying the film with his natural flair for comedy. The franchise, however, truly benefits from the magnetic performances of its female leads. Vidya Balan returns as Manjulika, exuding intensity with her expressive eyes, while Madhuri Dixit, with her poised and powerful screen presence, adds elegance to her role. Their much-hyped dance-off, where Madhuri performs Kathak and Vidya blends Bharatnatyam and Odissi, is an absolute highlight, blending classical forms in a visually captivating sequence, even if the song’s placement feels sudden.

On the downside, the film struggles to avoid clichés and stereotypes, particularly in its portrayal of Bengali culture, using it as a vehicle for humor before pivoting to inclusivity in its closing moments—a shift that feels slightly forced. 

The supporting cast, including Rajpal Yadav, Sanjay Mishra, and Ashwini Kalsekar, bring their seasoned comedic chops to the film, though they could have been given stronger material. Triptii Dimri’s character, meanwhile, lacks depth, and her presence feels underutilized.

Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 delivers enough laughs, scares, and nostalgia to make it a worthwhile festive watch. While the film has its peaks and valleys, fans of the series will find comfort in its familiar blend of supernatural intrigue and humor. As long as you don’t mind a few predictable turns, this Diwali family entertainer brings a satisfying dose of spooky fun.