This article was last updated on April 16, 2022
Canada: Oye! Times readers Get FREE $30 to spend on Amazon, Walmart…
USA: Oye! Times readers Get FREE $30 to spend on Amazon, Walmart…
Raghav [Markand Soni], a school kid, visits his grand-mom with his friends Roma and Igloo. While enjoying their vacations, they accidentally get involved in hunting for a lost treasure, which is also being sought and hunted by a notorious villain [Ashwin Mushran]. The kids meet a ghost [Jackie Shroff] with magical powers. The mystery of the lost treasure has to be resolved to save human lives held captive by the villain. Portions of Reshma A. Dev’s story bear an uncanny resemblance to BHOOT UNKLE, but the screenplay writing of BHOOT AND FRIENDS is a shade better. In fact, the writer knows that a kiddie film ought to be packed with fun elements. But like I pointed out earlier, it isn’t an exciting ride from start to end. Kittu Saluja’s direction is better than his debut outing, but a better and tighter screenplay would’ve only made a big difference. On the plus side, the usage of animation [Jackie’s flashback] and the adventurous finale [except when the kids combat the villain] elevate the film to an extent. Kittu’s choice of actors – the kids specifically – is perfect. Markand Soni and Ishita Panchal in particular are natural. The kid playing Igloo is okay. Jackie Shroff underplays his part beautifully. Ashwin Mushran looks convincing. Aditya Lakhia gets minimal scope. The villain’s sidekicks are most irritating.
On the whole, BHOOT AND FRIENDS is decent in parts, but the problem is it isn’t the type that would appeal to the kids completely, nor does it have those qualities that would appeal to the grown-ups. Besides, the lack of awareness will make the effort go unnoticed.
Be the first to comment