Shaitaan Movie Review: Ajay Devgn and R Madhavan, two highly esteemed actors in the industry, generated considerable excitement among audiences as they announced their collaboration for the first time. While the trailer quickly gained traction on social media, the film seems to disappoint. Shaitaan is a Hindi adaptation of the highly regarded Gujarati film Vash. Helmed by Vikas Bahl, the movie centers around a family whose tranquility is disrupted when an unwelcome guest prolongs his stay at their home.

Storyline

An exhilarating journey, the movie invites viewers to accompany Kabir played by Ajay Devgn and his family on a weekend getaway that quickly descends into a nightmare after they welcome a seemingly friendly but enigmatic stranger Vanraj aka R Madhavan into their home. Despite initially claiming he'll depart in 15 minutes, he prolongs his stay against their wishes. When Kabir attempts to expel him, their daughter unexpectedly sides with the visitor, revealing she's under his hypnotic influence. The situation escalates as the daughter exhibits alarming behaviour, including self-harm and aggression towards her father and brother.

As time passes, the family finds themselves confronting their deepest fears in this captivating narrative that delves into the dark realms of Black Magic.

Direction

While it is easy to be captivated by Vanraj's motives and anticipate the escalating terror of the story, the film becomes lengthy and boring. Several scenes are gripping, keeping you on the edge of your seat, including moments such as suspense surrounding Janki eating the oily parantha in speed, potentially igniting the gas with a matchbox, playing on a swing with her younger brother, encounter with the police, the fitting choice of 'Aaj Ki Raat Hona Hai Kya', the line 'There are certain things that your Science does not understand', the impactful opening credits, and the background score, which carry significant meaning if one pays close attention to its lyrics.

Regrettably, the screenplay falters significantly, and lacks the desired impact. This instance merely marks the start of how the second hour descends into chaos. The storyline stagnates. Although we grasp the Shaitaan's desires, its motivations remain elusive.

Writer Aamir Keeyan Khan's cautious approach, adapting Krishnadev Yagnik's original story for the Ajay Devgn starrer, results in a noticeable lack of terror in this horror film. The climax is what makes the second half a little bearable. It's deeply disappointing, particularly considering the filmmakers had a pre-existing story at their disposal and only needed to adapt it.

Cast

Witnessing an actor like Madhavan revel in portraying such a completely unhinged and sinister character is indeed a delight, and he delivers admirably on all fronts but is creepy in between. Jyothika is perfect as a protecting mother and wife 'You can't mess with her children'. Ajay Devgn is protective and smart throughout, however, he lacks heroism. He wants the humanity to win.

Outstanding! Janki, replicates her performance from the original Gujarati film with precision, tackling one of the most challenging roles with remarkable skill. She adeptly navigates between being possessed and terrified. Angaad Raaj offers solid support with his performances.

Final Verdict

With a great climax and starcast, Shaitaan is a one-time watch, but if you have already seen the Gujarati movies, can give it a miss. 

Presented by Jio Studios, Ajay Devgn Ffilms, and Panorama Studios International, the movie is produced by Devgn, Jyoti Deshpande, Kumar Mangat Pathak, and Abhishek Pathak. The film's music is composed by Devi Sri Prasad.