Synopsis

The story centers around Bittu, a young Brahmin boy whose obsession with Bela leads him down a dark path involving black magic. His misguided attempts to win her over result in his fate being tied to a sinister peepul tree in a dense, haunted forest. Here, a pint-sized demon, the Munjya, embodies both menace and childlike irrationality, complicating Bittu’s life further.

The Review

Despite its horror elements, the film shines in its portrayal of Bittu’s struggles and his homely universe. His attempts to confess his feelings to Bela provide a sweet contrast to the malevolent antics of the Munjya. The film’s charm lies in these moments of nervous comedy and the out-of-depth characters navigating supernatural chaos.

Director Sarpotdar, known for his work on “Zombivli” and “Faster Fene,” successfully blends horror with elements of dark fantasy, inspired by works like Neil Gaiman’s “Coraline.” The script skillfully balances the sinister with the comedic, drawing viewers into its small-scale scares and supernatural thrills.

The film’s visual style evokes a distinctly Maharashtrian soul, reminiscent of “Tumbbad”. The film maintains a sense of mischief and eerie excitement.

“Munjya” is a unique addition to the horror genre, offering a blend of folklore, supernatural horror, and heartfelt moments. While it might not deliver spine-chilling scares, its mix of horror and comedy, along with its engaging characters, makes it a worthwhile watch for those looking for a different kind of horror film.