Manvat Murders (2024) Review: A Tense Exploration of Superstition and Rural Mysticism
Manvat Murders, streaming on SonyLIV, is a Marathi thriller directed by Ashish Avinash Bende. It delves into the depths of rural superstitions and the gruesome consequences of blind faith.
Director’s Vision and Style
Ashish Avinash Bende’s direction is both atmospheric and intense. He crafts a slow-burn narrative that carefully unravels the layers of fear and mysticism. The film is set in a village where belief in the supernatural runs deep, and Bende captures the dread that permeates the lives of the villagers. His directorial style is marked by a deliberate pacing, allowing tension to build gradually.
The use of long, uninterrupted takes gives the audience a feeling of immersion in the setting. Bende’s camera lingers on faces, catching the subtle shifts in expression as fear takes hold of the characters. His ability to maintain suspense, without resorting to jump scares or overt horror, showcases his skill in psychological storytelling.
Character Development
The film’s strength lies in its complex characters, particularly Ramakant Kulkarni, portrayed by Ashutosh Gowariker. Ramakant is a police officer from the city, out of his depth in a rural community gripped by superstition. Gowariker delivers a nuanced performance, playing a man whose skepticism is slowly eroded by the mysteries he encounters.
Sonali Kulkarni’s portrayal of Rukmini, a widow trapped in the web of village customs, is another standout. Rukmini’s struggle to break free from the superstitions surrounding her is portrayed with emotional depth and subtlety. As the story unfolds, her character undergoes significant growth, making her one of the most compelling figures in the narrative.
Supporting characters, such as the village headman and the local priest, add further layers of intrigue and conflict. Each character’s motivations are shaped by their belief systems, making the unfolding mystery even more gripping.
Storytelling and Plot
The plot revolves around a series of mysterious murders that seem connected to occult practices. As Ramakant investigates, he encounters a village steeped in rituals and secrets. The tension between tradition and modernity is a central theme, with the village’s faith in the supernatural coming into direct conflict with Ramakant’s rational approach.
One of the film’s most interesting narrative choices is its refusal to provide easy answers. The ambiguity surrounding the supernatural elements leaves the audience questioning whether the events are truly mystical or simply the result of deeply ingrained beliefs.
Dialogue and Themes
The dialogue is minimalistic but impactful, filled with pauses that allow the weight of the situation to sink in. Characters speak in short, clipped sentences, reflecting their fear of speaking out against long-standing traditions.
The themes of fear, control, and belief are central to the film. Bende uses the village as a microcosm of rural India’s struggles with modernity, portraying how blind faith can become a tool of oppression.
Comparison to Other Films
In terms of its slow-burning narrative and atmospheric direction, “Manvat Murders” can be compared to films like Anurag Kashyap’s “Ugly” and Abhishek Chaubey’s “Sonchiriya.” However, Bende brings a distinct rural flavor to the thriller genre, setting it apart from urban-centric crime dramas.
While not as action-packed as mainstream thrillers, “Manvat Murders” excels in creating a sense of unease through its patient storytelling. Fans of suspense-driven narratives like “Tumbbad” will appreciate the film’s unique approach to rural horror.
Box Office and Reception
The film’s digital release on SonyLIV has garnered positive reviews, with praise for its atmosphere and performances. While its slow pace may not appeal to all viewers, fans of psychological thrillers have found it deeply engaging. “Manvat Murders” has also sparked conversations about the role of superstition in rural communities, a topic rarely explored in mainstream cinema.
Star Rating
| Aspect | Rating |
|---|---|
| Directorial Style | 4.5/5 |
| Character Development | 4.5/5 |
| Plot | 4/5 |
| Themes | 4/5 |
| Dialogue | 3.5/5 |
FAQs
What makes “Manvat Murders” unique in terms of direction?
Ashish Avinash Bende’s slow-burn approach allows tension to build gradually, using long takes and atmospheric shots to create a sense of dread.
How well are the characters developed in the film?
The film excels in character development, particularly with Ashutosh Gowariker’s portrayal of Ramakant Kulkarni and Sonali Kulkarni’s role as Rukmini. Their emotional arcs are integral to the narrative.
Is “Manvat Murders” more of a psychological thriller or a supernatural one?
While the film has supernatural elements, it leans more toward psychological thriller territory, with a focus on the impact of superstition and fear on the human mind.
Conclusion
“Manvat Murders” stands out for its meticulous direction, well-developed characters, and exploration of rural superstition. Its deliberate pacing may not appeal to fans of fast-paced thrillers, but for those who enjoy a slow-burning narrative with psychological depth, it’s a gripping watch.
Disclaimer: Ratings may vary.
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