Tumbbad Movie Review: An Artsy, Gutsy Mix of Mythology, History, Horror, and Moral Science

Tumbbad is not your typical Bollywood horror film. Combining elements of mythology, history, horror, and moral science, this movie offers a unique cinematic experience. It takes the audience on a journey through time, from British imperialism to Indian independence, all while exploring the deep and often disturbing human emotions of greed, lust, and power. With stunning visuals, a gripping storyline, and intense performances, Tumbbad has become a critically acclaimed piece of Indian cinema that continues to captivate audiences even after its initial release in 2018.

In this review, we’ll delve deep into the many layers of Tumbbad, analyzing its themes, visuals, characters, and much more. If you’re wondering whether this film is worth your time, keep reading to find out why Tumbbad deserves a place on your watchlist.

Tumbbad Movie Review: Setting the Stage:

From the moment Tumbbad begins, you’re pulled into a world that feels like a blend of fantasy and reality. The film’s setting—a rain-soaked village in Maharashtra—is both haunting and beautiful. The perpetual downpour adds an eerie, almost mythical quality to the landscape, reflecting the internal struggles of the characters. The production design is one of the film’s strongest points, with every frame meticulously crafted to enhance the story’s mood.

But what sets Tumbbad apart is how it intertwines folklore with history. The myth of the Goddess of Plenty and her greedy son Hastar serves as the foundation upon which the story is built. As we follow the protagonist’s quest for Hastar’s cursed gold, we are also taken through significant periods in India’s history. The film explores the transition from British rule to independence, but does so through the lens of rural feudalism, making it a uniquely Indian period drama.

Mythology Meets Reality: The Story of Tumbbad:

At the heart of Tumbbad is the legend of Hastar, the greedy first-born of the Goddess of Plenty. According to the myth, Hastar tried to steal all the world’s wealth and was cursed to never be worshipped. The village of Tumbbad defies this curse, and that’s where the movie takes off.

The story is divided into three timelines, starting in the early 1900s and progressing to mid-20th century India. The central character, a Brahmin boy named Vinayak Rao, becomes obsessed with finding Hastar’s hidden treasure. This obsession leads him down a dark path filled with greed, betrayal, and ultimately, tragedy. As we follow Vinayak’s journey from boyhood to adulthood, we witness how his relentless pursuit of wealth consumes him, both mentally and physically.

The mythological elements in the film are seamlessly woven into the historical narrative. The story is not just about finding treasure; it’s about the dangers of greed and how it can corrupt even the most innocent of souls.

Tumbbad Movie Review: Visual Brilliance:

If there’s one thing that stands out in Tumbbad, it’s the visuals. The film’s cinematography is nothing short of breathtaking, and it’s no surprise that it has been compared to international films of the highest caliber. The dark, foreboding caves, the endless rain, and the rugged Maharashtrian terrain all come together to create a visual masterpiece.

The production design deserves special mention. Every detail, from the dilapidated mansion where much of the action takes place to the eerie underground chambers, is meticulously crafted. The film’s use of natural light, or lack thereof, adds to the overall sense of dread and suspense.

But it’s not just about creating a visually appealing film. The visuals in Tumbbad serve a purpose—they enhance the story and the characters’ emotional journeys. The gloomy atmosphere mirrors Vinayak’s descent into madness, while the constant rain serves as a reminder of the curse that hangs over the village.

Tumbbad Movie Review: Exploring Themes of Greed and Power:

At its core, Tumbbad is a cautionary tale about the dangers of greed. Vinayak’s obsession with Hastar’s gold is symbolic of the human desire for wealth and power, and how that desire can lead to one’s downfall. Throughout the film, we see how Vinayak’s greed drives him to make increasingly dangerous and immoral choices. He sacrifices his relationships, his health, and even his humanity in his pursuit of wealth.

But the film doesn’t just stop at greed. It also explores themes of power, legacy, and morality. Vinayak’s relationship with his son, Pandurang, is a reflection of how the cycle of greed can be passed down from generation to generation. The film raises important questions about the lengths we are willing to go to secure our legacy, and whether the pursuit of power is worth the cost.

The Performances: A Standout Cast:

Sohum Shah delivers a powerful performance as Vinayak Rao, the film’s protagonist. His portrayal of a man consumed by greed is both haunting and tragic. Shah’s physical transformation throughout the film is remarkable, as he convincingly ages from a young boy to a middle-aged man. His performance is nuanced, with every facial expression and gesture adding to the character’s depth.

The supporting cast also delivers strong performances. Jyoti Malshe, who plays Vinayak’s mother, brings a sense of urgency and desperation to her role. She is the one who introduces Vinayak to the myth of Hastar, and her presence looms large throughout the film. Child actor Mohammad Samad, who plays Vinayak’s son, also deserves praise for his performance. His scenes with Shah are some of the most emotionally charged moments in the film.

Tumbbad Movie Review: An Unconventional Horror Film:

While Tumbbad is often classified as a horror film, it’s important to note that this is not your typical jump-scare, haunted house horror. Instead, the film relies on atmosphere and psychological tension to create a sense of dread. The horror in Tumbbad comes from the characters’ internal struggles, as well as the dark, foreboding world they inhabit.

The film’s use of mythological horror is also unique. The idea of a cursed god and his hidden treasure is both fascinating and terrifying. There are no monsters or ghosts in Tumbbad—the true horror comes from the human characters and their actions. This makes the film all the more unsettling, as it forces the audience to confront their own fears and desires.

Tumbbad Movie Review: Analyzing the Film’s Structure:

One of the most interesting aspects of Tumbbad is its structure. The film is divided into three chapters, each focusing on a different period in Vinayak’s life. This allows the audience to see how his obsession with Hastar’s gold evolves over time, and how it affects the people around him.

The first chapter introduces us to Vinayak as a young boy, living in the village of Tumbbad with his mother and brother. It is here that he first learns about the myth of Hastar and becomes obsessed with finding the treasure. The second chapter takes place several years later, as Vinayak returns to Tumbbad as an adult. He has become a wealthy man, but his greed is far from satisfied. The third and final chapter focuses on Vinayak’s relationship with his son, Pandurang, and the lengths he is willing to go to secure the treasure for future generations.

This three-part structure not only adds depth to the story but also allows the film to explore different themes and ideas. Each chapter builds upon the last, creating a rich and complex narrative that keeps the audience engaged from start to finish.

Tumbbad Movie Review: A Technical Masterpiece:

In addition to its strong performances and compelling story, Tumbbad is a technical masterpiece. The film’s sound design, in particular, deserves special mention. The constant sound of rain, the creaking of old doors, and the eerie silence of the underground chambers all contribute to the film’s unsettling atmosphere.

The film’s use of practical effects is also impressive. The creature design for Hastar is both grotesque and fascinating, and the filmmakers’ decision to use practical effects rather than CGI adds to the film’s authenticity. The attention to detail in every aspect of the film’s production is evident, and it’s clear that a lot of thought and care went into creating the world of Tumbbad.

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