It’s always a treat when a film promises a trip down memory lane, especially when it brings together comedic legends like Akshay Kumar, Paresh Rawal, and Rajpal Yadav. "Bhooth Bangla," directed by Priyadarshan, certainly dangles that nostalgic carrot, hinting at a return to an era where laughter was less about grand spectacle and more about impeccable timing. And for a good stretch, it truly delivers on that promise.
The Hindi film, released on April 17, 2026, and co-produced by Akshay Kumar, Ekta Kapoor, and Shobha Kapoor, attempts to recapture the magic of Priyadarshan’s earlier horror-comedy, "Bhool Bhulaiyaa." With a cast that also includes Jisshu Sengupta, Tabu, and Wamiqa Gabbi, it had all the ingredients for a delightful romp.
Indeed, the initial 45 minutes are genuinely captivating, showcasing a sharp comic rhythm and an effortless interplay among the seasoned actors. Akshay Kumar slides comfortably into his familiar comedic skin, while Paresh Rawal and Rajpal Yadav provide the kind of reactive humor that can elevate even the most predictable lines into laugh-out-loud moments.
However, much like a promising journey that takes an unexpected detour, "Bhooth Bangla" struggles with an uneven pace. The first half is a joyous ride, packed with classic gags that remind you why these actors are so beloved. But then, the narrative takes a sharp turn into a much darker and more serious folklore involving a bride-stealing demon.
While the visual effects are commendable and the spooky atmosphere is well-crafted, this shift, combined with a nearly three-hour runtime, making the film feel stretched and, at times, quite bloated.
Despite its mixed critical reception, "Bhooth Bangla" did manage to pull in a significant audience, grossing ₹246.75 crore worldwide, making it the fifth highest-grossing Indian film and the third highest-grossing Hindi film of 2026. This success is likely a testament to the enduring appeal of the horror-comedy genre and the star power of its lead actors.
It’s the kind of film that will undoubtedly attract family audiences, offering big laughs in its first half. Yet, the second half, with its predictable plot and reliance on dated comedic tropes, ultimately prevents it from being a truly memorable experience.
In essence, "Bhooth Bangla" is a heavily nostalgia-driven film that shines brightest when it leans into the strengths of its comedic ensemble. Akshay’s comic timing and the supporting cast’s performances make it an enjoyable, albeit one-time, watch. It’s a film that offers a good dose of entertainment, but one can’t help but feel it could have been so much more cohesive and impactful. It’s a solid 6 out of 10 for its efforts and the genuine laughs it provides, especially in its early moments.
ENDS
By
Sam Trailerman
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