If only they had given us a more convincing intro or background about Vanraaj and let Madhavan rule instead of maintaining the victory of the male protagonist, Ajay, it would have been a 5-star!
Shaitaan (2024) is a unique and sinister piece of art penned by Krishnadev Yagnik. The movie delves into the struggle of an urban couple, portrayed by the dynamic duo of Ajay Devgn and Jyothika, as they battle to protect their daughter and their entire family from the clutches of an occultist, played by the versatile R Madhavan.
As the saviour and protective father, Ajay Devgn reflects his Drishyam vibes yet again. Jyotika, as his wife, is a fresh watcher of Hindi movies after ages. I think Hindi cine-goers remember her last from Doli Saja Ke Rakhna. One can feel the pain of the unfortunate family upon being controlled by this freaked out soul/monster/SHAITAAN – Vanraaj, played by Madhavan, who entirely and successfully ditched his docile, coy boy image from RHTDM days, as he dons the hat of a ghastly monster. You will hate Vanraaj! There is much more to discuss about this character, but I won’t spill more beans here. All I can say is that Madhavan just nailed it right, giving you moments where you can easily miss Ajay’s talent! That’s a big one!! Take a bow, R Madhavan!
The daughter, played by Janaki, convincingly portrays a character under the influence of black magic. Her performance is particularly compelling due to her previous portrayal of the same role in the original Gujarati version of this movie – Vash, which has now been remade for a larger audience as Shaitaan !
Anngad Raj starts as the cute Gen Alpha son of the family, eventually transitions to a resilient child and brother who trusts his father to bring back the sister and save the whole family!
Unlike typical horror movies, the background score and songs aren’t scary or overwhelming; they leave you with visceral sensations at times! Not surprised, Amit Trivedi and his marvel!
Vikas Bahl’s camera captures the creepiness throughout and gives you moments of nail-biting nervousness.
If only they had given us a more convincing intro or background about Vanraaj and let Madhavan rule instead of maintaining the victory of the male protagonist, Ajay, it would have been a 5-star! ( I would like to mention that Ajay Devgn’s participation as a producer had a role to play here).
(Because of my bias toward this generation of horror movies.) The story has been treated differently from stereotypical supernatural movies, yet letting elements of weirdness percolate into the audience! Watch it to feel it!!
Where to watch: Netflix
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