Bhediya 2022

Exploring the Social Fabric Amid Fantasy and Comedy

A Tale of Fantasy and Reality

Director Amar Kaushik and writer Niren Bhatt deliver a whimsical blend of fantasy and social commentary in "Bhediya." Kaushik's signature lies in embedding slices of societal critique within layers of entertainment, a trend he established with his debut feature "Stree."

Amar Kaushik's Unique Style

Kaushik's filmmaking prowess lies in weaving profound messages within the folds of fantasy and comedy. In "Stree," he subverted gender dynamics using a witch, while "Bhediya" introduces a werewolf to convey the importance of environmental conservation and the pitfalls of unchecked development.

"Bhediya": An Unconventional Messenger

In the world of "Bhediya," the messenger of change isn't a conventional hero but a werewolf named Bhaskar, portrayed by Varun Dhawan. This choice adds a layer of novelty and intrigue to the narrative.

Environmental Message Amid Lightheartedness

A significant facet of "Bhediya" revolves around Bhaskar's transformation into a werewolf and the subsequent lessons he learns. His journey becomes a metaphor for the consequences of deforestation and its impact on the environment.

Unveiling the Plot

Bhaskar, an aspiring building contractor, is entrusted with the task of clearing a forest in Arunachal Pradesh to make way for development. However, a twist of fate turns him into a werewolf, leading to a moral dilemma between personal gain and environmental preservation.

Nature vs. Profit

Bhaskar's dual identity mirrors the clash between human greed and nature's welfare. On one hand, his human side strives for profit, while the wolf within him emerges as a champion for the forest's protection.

Navigating Bhaskar's Transformation

Varun Dhawan's portrayal of Bhaskar adds depth to the character's internal struggle. His progression from a self-serving contractor to an advocate for nature's sanctity creates a relatable and engaging narrative arc.

Comedy and Irony

Writer Niren Bhatt masterfully infuses the storyline with humor and irony. Bhaskar's predicament as a vegan werewolf and the challenges he faces provide ample comedic material, enhancing the overall storytelling.

Setting and Identity

Set in the North East, "Bhediya" delves into the concept of outsiders and the preservation of cultural identity. The film raises pertinent questions about who belongs and the value of embracing diversity.

Self-Awareness and Meta-Humor

The film employs meta-humor by acknowledging Bollywood's legacy of shape-shifting creatures. This self-awareness adds an element of relatability, connecting the narrative to the audience's cinematic experiences.

Visual Spectacle of the North East

The film's setting in Arunachal Pradesh showcases the region's pristine beauty, a refreshing departure from conventional Bollywood backdrops. The picturesque landscapes enhance the immersive experience.

Thrills and Visual Effects

Amar Kaushik and the technical team succeed in creating suspenseful sequences, especially during Bhaskar's transformations. The visual effects team excels in rendering stunning visuals, from the howling wolves to the 3D leaping creatures.

Characters and Performances

Varun Dhawan's portrayal of Bhaskar captures both his charm and silliness, endearing him to the audience. Kriti Sanon, although underutilized, delivers a sharp performance. However, it is Abhishek Banerjee as Bhaskar's friend Guddu who steals the show with impeccable comic timing.

Exploration of Friendship and Chemistry

The camaraderie between Bhaskar and Guddu serves as a comedic anchor for the narrative. Their interactions contribute to the film's lightheartedness and momentum.

Lengthy Narrative and Pacing

While "Bhediya" offers a captivating narrative, its running time occasionally becomes a hurdle. Lengthy song-and-dance sequences and romantic interludes intermittently disrupt the werewolf tale's pace.

Strong Social Messages

Amar Kaushik's signature touch of delivering social messages through mass entertainment shines in "Bhediya." The film addresses pressing issues like environmental conservation and casual racism, employing directness for impact.

Entertainment with a Purpose

The film's comedy and fantasy elements enhance its entertainment value, making it accessible to a wide audience. By embedding these elements within an eco-friendly narrative, "Bhediya" stands as an exemplar of entertainment with a purpose.

Beyond the Werewolf

"Bhediya" paves the way for discussions beyond the werewolf storyline. It sparks conversations about sustainable development, the balance between progress and nature, and cultural inclusivity.

Indian Horror-Comedy Genre

With its rich history of horror-comedies, the Indian film industry finds a unique addition in "Bhediya." The film's effective blend of humor and thrills contributes to the growth of this genre.

Potential for Franchise

"Bhediya" leaves the door open for a potential franchise. Its engaging narrative, strong performances, and environmental themes create a foundation that could be further explored in future installments.

FAQs

Q1: Is "Bhediya" primarily a comedy or a fantasy film?

"Bhediya" strikes a balance between fantasy and comedy. While the werewolf concept adds fantasy elements, the film's humorous situations and characters contribute to its comedic appeal.

Q2: Does the film only focus on environmental messages?

No, in addition to environmental themes, "Bhediya" also addresses casual racism and cultural identity. It delves into the complexities of belonging and inclusivity.

Q3: How does Varun Dhawan's performance contribute to the film?

Varun Dhawan's portrayal of Bhaskar showcases his versatility as an actor. He skillfully navigates the character's transformation and growth, making him relatable to the audience.

Q4: Does "Bhediya" offer a fresh perspective on horror-comedy?

Yes, "Bhediya" introduces a unique blend of horror and comedy to the Indian film landscape. Its thematic focus on environmental conservation adds depth to the genre.

Q5: Does the film succeed in conveying its social messages?

"Bhediya" effectively delivers its social messages through direct storytelling. The lack of subtlety ensures that the messages resonate with a broad audience.