Maa Review {3.0/5} & Review Rating
Star Cast: Kajol, Kherin Sharma, Ronit Roy
Director:
Vishal Furia
Maa: A Synopsis
MAA embarks on a gripping journey centered around Ambika, played by the talented Kajol. Nestled in bustling Kolkata with her husband Shuvankar (Indraneil Sengupta) and daughter Shweta (Kherin Sharma), Ambika’s life takes a surreal turn when Shuvankar, burdened by family secrets, ventures back to his ancestral village, Chandarpur. There, tragedy strikes when he mysteriously dies after expressing his desire to sell their family’s mansion.
As the unsettling shadows of their past creep into the present, Ambika and Shweta must confront a series of eerie events upon their arrival in Chandarpur, culminating in a chilling exploration of a mother’s love and desperation. The narrative intensifies as Ambika fights against supernatural forces to protect her daughter, making for a uniquely engaging watch.
Story Review: An Unforgettable Encounter
Saiwyn Quadras crafts a compelling narrative that captivates the viewer. While the screenplay is riveting, it occasionally wades into disarray, regarding pacing and coherence. The crisp dialogues by Aamil Keeyan Khan and Ajit Jagtap resonate with raw emotion, heightening the film’s impact.
Vishal Furia’s directorial prowess shines through as he artfully conjures an eerie atmosphere, effectively making the audience feel the stakes of Ambika’s struggle. With its rare blend of mythological elements and horror, MAA distinguishes itself from conventional horror films, unfolding an experience that evokes both fear and empathy.
Standout scenes, particularly the thrilling introduction, Shuvankar’s shocking demise, and the exhilarating car ride during the climax, will leave viewers on the edge of their seats.
Areas for Improvement
However, MAA is not without its flaws. Certain visual effects may leave viewers yearning for a higher standard, especially in light of contemporary cinematic benchmarks set by films like SHAITAAN [2024]. A handful of plot developments tread perilously close to silliness, causing unintended laughter rather than tension. Furthermore, the film’s conclusion feels rushed and undermines the thoughtful buildup, while unconventional themes surrounding a girl’s first period may polarize audiences.
Maa – Official Trailer
Performance Highlights
Kajol delivers a mesmerizing performance, solidifying her status as one of the finest actors in contemporary cinema. She portrays Ambika’s fierce spirit beautifully, especially during the climax. Kherin Sharma provides commendable support, while Ronit Roy emerges as a surprising standout, delivering one of his most impressive performances to date. Supporting roles, including those by Indraneil Sengupta, Jitin Gulati, and Dibyendu Bhattacharya, further enrich the narrative tapestry.
Technical Aspects and Music
The music, particularly the track ‘Kali Shakti’, may not linger in the memory, yet it effectively complements the film’s visuals. The background score by Amar Mohile adds depth, while Pushkar Singh’s cinematography captures the haunting essence of Chandarpur artfully. Although the action sequences are gory and fitting for the horror genre, the VFX quality, handled by NY VFXWaala, remains a mixed bag, as previously noted. Editing by Sandeep Francis ensures a functional flow, but could benefit from sharper pacing.
Conclusion: A Unique Cinematic Experience
In summary, MAA stands out as a unique fusion of mythological and horror genres, bolstered by stunning performances from Kajol and Ronit Roy. While the film grapples with inconsistent writing and some questionable plot points, it undeniably offers an engaging exploration of maternal instincts and the supernatural. Those seeking a fresh take on horror will find MAA a compelling watch, though with some caveats along the way.
