When you’re watching a movie whose prologue reads ‘Welcome, No Entry, from the makers of Singh Is Kinng’, you know what to expect. You are in for a mindless journey of punches and jokes. While the first Bhool Bhulaiyaa film, which released in 2007, remains a classic and can never be replicated, the second film felt like it was struggling to find its ground. The good thing about any third act is that if the middle one was bad, at least the third film can redeem the franchise. But, does Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 succeed or fail in improving the franchise? Let’s find out.

which begins as an extraordinary drama about the most famous witch (Ghost) In the City – Vidya Balan as Manjulika (sorry lady, you get second place here), has quickly become another attempt to meet the commercial expectations of a real Diwali release. This time, the story takes us back to the origins of Manjulika. The producers take many creative liberties to adapt the folk tale to the demands of the plot. Vidya’s return to the franchise is a big reason why the third film piques your interest. Add Madhuri Dixit and you have a solid chance of seeing two Manjulikas for the price of one.

Karthik returns as exorcist Rooh Baba, who is more haunted by himself than the ghosts around him. It’s a joy to see the familiar faces of the Mad Hatter trio – Ashwini Kalsekar, Rajpal Yadav and Sanjay Mishra. But, the writers don’t manage to justify their talent, and end up presenting some poorly written jokes. Thankfully, the second half takes care of itself and the banter and punches slowly but steadily get better.

The Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 team’s efforts at focusing on logic are minimal. So, don’t expect everything to go well. However, what works wonders for the film is its daring climax and Karthik’s ability to convey a difficult second-half. If it weren’t for the actors’ self-confidence and their ability to try something different, the film’s ending would have been safe, predictable. Without giving away any spoilers, I believe that Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 has one of the most interesting climaxes written in recent times.

To see Vidya and Madhuri duel in the new Ami J Tomar Singing is a treat. Madhuri steps into a genre that is somewhat new to her, and it’s a risk that pays off in her favour. Whenever Vidya speaks any Bengali dialogue or falls into a heavy accent, it fills her with nostalgia and excitement. Trupti Dimri brings the glamour, and works hard to deliver impressive chemistry with Kartik. Karthik is at the center of this madcap part horror part comedy venture and he is the reason the film soars in the second half, especially during the pre-climax sequences. His ability to poke fun at himself, especially his digs at Shehzada, is one of the big attractions.

Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 is a good festival entertainer worth watching. If the first half had worked well, the film would have reached an even higher position. And will Manjulika come back for the fourth time? Well, your guess is as good as mine!