It's been two weeks to the release of Phone Bhoot. The film's star cast was the most enticing part of the package as the ensemble consists of evergreen favourite Katrina Kaif and new hotties, Ishaan and Siddhant. How is the movie though, actually? Let's hit reality now that the initial charm has worn off.
The Story:
Best friends Major and Gullu are on a mission to bring salvation to the dead with the help of an "Atma" Ragini. When they encounter an evil baba who is envious of their success, their lives take a sudden turn for the worst.
Two single lads who share space, Gullu and Major (Ishaan and Siddhant Chaturvedi), want to work as ghost hunters. They are able to do so to a certain extent with the support of Ragini, a friendly ghost played by Katrina Kaif. But as they become involved in Ragini's broader scheme to rescue her partner from the grasp of a wicked baba, Aatmaram, their trip encounters an obstacle (Jackie Shroff).
Review:
A unique and interesting comedy, Gurmmeet Singh's Phone Bhoot was written by Ravi Shankaran and Jasvinder Singh Bath.
The actors take their circumstances very critically, recalling movies like Andaz Apna Apna. This creates the perfect setting for comedy, which is unashamedly expressed and character-driven in the screenplay. The conversation in the script will draw you into the imaginary universe of this movie and keep you laughing.
Despite this, the movie drags in its first half until Jackie Shroff joins the cast. Although that shifts the movie's pace for the better, it also makes the final conflict in the second half a little bit predictable. There are a few situations where there are small but noticeable flaws.
The film's editing is good, although it could be smoother. The songs in this story exist merely as decorative elements.
Anything new?
The film's VFX, production design, and prosthetics are all flawlessly in harmony with the story in terms of technical aspects.
Katrina Kaif has a lovely appearance. She takes care to avoid dictating the story; she builds her friendship with the guys and she gives a natural performance by focusing on her strong points. The antagonist, played by Jackie Shroff, is a spoof of every horror movie antagonist and is amusing and charming.
Overall, Gurmmeet Singh creates a distinct horror comedy that differs from most of the content one has seen this year. If you are looking for thought-provoking material, please... look the other way. But for a lighthearted movie, Phone Bhoot can serve up some moments of eeriely funny happiness.
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