Tumbbad: A Blend of Mythology and Horror
Introduction:
Growing up, I was always drawn to films with the genre horror, mystery, and thriller. Unlike most kids, horror film never scared me; in fact, they fascinated me. My love for Hindi films only deepened this interest. I’ve watched the Conjuring series and other similar movies; however, I often found them lacking in depth. Moreover, many horror films rely too heavily on sound effects to create fear. While these effects might startle you, they ultimately don’t leave a lasting impression.
That all changed when I watched the film Tumbbad. This film completely redefined what horror means for me. It’s not just the heart-racing suspense or terrifying visuals; it’s the story, deeply rooted in mythology, that truly captivates the viewer. Tumbbad is a unique cinematic experience!
A Brief Overview of Tumbbad:
Tumbbad is a mythological horror-thriller that takes place in a small village in Rural Maharashtra called Tumbbad. Set in the 20th century, it centers around Vinayak Rao, a man obsessed with finding a hidden treasure and who is hungry for gold. The movie’s other key character is Hastar, who is hungry behind wheat. Vinayak’s relentless pursuit of wealth leads him down a dark and dangerous path, ultimately entwining his fate with Hastar’s.
The film introduces other notable characters, including a hauntingly diseased grandmother, a fearful mother, and her two innocent children. These characters, though not traditionally terrifying, leave a lasting impact due to their eerie qualities and the oppressive atmosphere that surrounds them.
What Makes Tumbbad Special:
Unlike many mainstream horror films, Tumbbad doesn’t rely on jump scares or excessive special effects to create fear. The horror is subtle, creeping up on you scene by scene, and it stays with you long after the movie ends. One of the film’s most remarkable aspects is its slow, deliberate pacing, which builds tension in a way that few horror films manage to achieve.
Another standout feature is the breathtaking cinematography by Pankaj Kumar. The film’s visuals are mesmerizing, particularly the haunting landscapes of Rural Maharashtra, which serve as the perfect backdrop for this eerie tale. It took the filmmakers six years to complete Tumbbad, and the effort is evident in every frame.
The sound design and background score by Jesper Kyd, known for his work on Assassin’s Creed, further elevate the movie. The eerie soundscape intensifies the suspense, making the viewer feel as if they are right there in the village, experiencing the horrors firsthand.
Casting and Performance:
One of the things that sets Tumbbad apart is its unconventional casting. The film doesn’t feature any major Bollywood superstars, and it’s all the better for it. Sohum Shah delivers an outstanding performance as Vinayak Rao, capturing the character’s greed, obsession, and eventual downfall with remarkable depth.
This decision to avoid big names allows the audience to focus entirely on the story, rather than being distracted by star power. The actors grounded performances make the film feel more authentic, and the absence of glamour only adds to the eerie realism.
A Landmark in Indian Cinema:
Tumbbad broke new ground in Indian cinema, being the first Indian film to open the Venice Critics’ Week. Its mix of mythology, horror, and social commentary sets it apart from other films in the genre.
The film explores greed, power, and blind ambition, while keeping the audience engaged and on the edge.
Tumbbad isn’t just a horror movie; it’s a cinematic experience that stays with you long after the credits. Whether you’re a fan of horror, mythology, or just great storytelling, this film is a must-watch. But, I’ve already seen it twice, and I plan to watch it again; it’s that good. If you want a movie that will make your heart race and captivate you, Tumbbad is the one. Highly Recommended!