Baak: A Polished But Formulaic Haunt
Sarkar Rating: 1.5/5Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â
Reviewed By: Kausalya Suharika R
Cast:
Sundar. C, Tamannaah Bhatia, Raashii Khanna, Kovai Sarala, Vennela Kishore, Sreenivas Reddy
Crew:
Director: Sundar. C
Producer: Khushbu Sundar
Music Director: Hip Hop Tamizha
Cinematographers: E. Krishnasamy
Editor: Fenny Oliver
The latest entry in the Aranmanai series, Baak, chills audiences with impressive technical aspects but stumbles on an overused plot.
Story:
Lawyer Shiva Shankar (Sundar C) faces a personal nightmare when his sister Shivani (Tamannaah Bhatia) seemingly takes her own life. Her husband’s strange demise in a forest adds another layer of suspicion. Determined to find answers, Shiva starts to dig into the unsettling truth behind these tragedies.
Visual Thrills and Aural Chills:
Baak stands out for its technical prowess. The film boasts stunning visuals, a heart-pounding score by Hip Hop Tamizha, and lavish production values. The well-executed horror effects and a suspenseful build-up keep viewers engaged, especially before the intermission.
Solid Performances, Uneven Humor:
Sundar C delivers a compelling performance as the grief-stricken yet determined Shiva. Tamannaah Bhatia leaves a lasting impression despite limited screentime. Raashii Khanna holds her own in her supporting role. However, the movie falters with unnecessary slapstick comedy routines. These scenes, often featuring Vennela Kishore and Sreenivas Reddy, disrupt the atmosphere and undermine the horror.
Echoes of the Past:
Baak’s biggest weakness lies in its unoriginal narrative. The plot adheres closely to the franchise’s formula, lacking innovation. While twists are present, they fail to surprise horror veterans.
Pacing Pitfalls:
The second half suffers from pacing issues. The emotional scenes, while attempting to add depth, drag the movie down. The inclusion of a superfluous song further disrupts the flow. Tighter editing could have significantly improved the film’s rhythm.
Verdict:
Baak offers a visually stunning but predictable horror experience. The film struggles to balance its chilling moments with forced humor. Fans of the Aranmanai series might find some enjoyment, but those seeking a truly original scarefest are likely to be left wanting.
