At a time when the ‘universe’ trend in Indian cinema is still developing, and another big universe has already faltered, the Maddock Horror Comedy Universe stands out. Thamma is directed by Aditya Sarpotdar and show that this universe has a real plan. Its connections don’t feel forced, and flashbacks don’t serve as a crutch. Each link feels genuine, and every crossover comes naturally.
Thamma review: What is the story?
I have to admit, the trailer and songs for Thamma left me wanting more. Fortunately, the film itself more than delivers. The story follows Aalok (Ayushmann Khurrana), a news anchor who is saved from a bear in the wild by Tadka (Rashmika Mandanna), a betaal. Unlike the vampires in Twilight, these beings can go into the sun.
There’s no complication like a wooden stake through the heart to defeat them. As Aalok’s life becomes more complicated, Tadka is asked to leave. But things take a turn, and Aalok becomes a betaal himself. Overseeing everything is Yakshasan (Nawazuddin Siddiqui), the imprisoned head of the betaals. He has been chained for 75 years, but when Tadka breaks the rule, chaos ensues.
Performance report card
In terms of performance, Ayushmann shines as Aalok. His comic timing has been evident before, and in this non-social message drama, he truly excels. Rashmika as Tadka/Tarika fits well into her role, and the chemistry between them works well. Nawazuddin, as the titular Thamma, doesn’t have much screen time, but the writing ensures you feel his presence until the end.
Paresh Rawal, playing Aalok’s father, provides some laughs, but the emotional father-son relationship in the second half doesn’t resonate. The cameos are a highlight and genuinely enhance Thamma. The music, while not the main feature, keeps the film moving along.
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