Baramulla Review: Manav Kaul Leads a Chilling Story of Loss, Faith, and the Ghosts of the Past
At first glance, Baramulla appears to be a straightforward tale of a missing child. However, it quickly reveals a quiet ruthlessness, transforming familiar elements into unsettling dissonance. What starts as a mystery soon evolves into a deeper, more haunting narrative.
Plot and Setting
The story unfolds in a tranquil Kashmiri town, where life's calmness almost lulls the audience into a false sense of security. This peace, however, soon breaks, exposing a restless undercurrent. The narrative opens with a magician performing for an intrigued crowd as a child steps into a box, disappears, and usually reappears. This time, young Shoaib Ansari never returns.
Main Characters and Performances
- Manav Kaul stars as DSP Ridwan Sayyad, whose steady presence grounds the film.
- Bhasha Sumbli, Arista Mehta, and Rohaan Shah portray members of Ridwan’s family, who become entangled in the growing fear and uncertainty.
- The cast also includes Ashwini Koul and others, contributing to the film's layered narrative.
“Baramulla unfolds with a quiet ruthlessness, turning every familiar note into a dissonant one.”
“The film never lets you breathe easy, and that might be its greatest strength.”
The disappearance of Shoaib ignites a chilling investigation, with the missing boy becoming far more than just a case file. The film's atmosphere maintains tension and unease throughout, heightening the emotional stakes.
Direction
Directed by Aditya Suhas Jambhale, Baramulla excels in blending mystery with emotional depth, making it a compelling cinematic experience.
Author's summary: Baramulla is a gripping tale that slowly shifts from a simple missing child mystery into a profound exploration of fear and unresolved pasts.