Director: Aditya Sarpotdar, Writers: Niren Bhatt, Suresh Mathew, Arun Falara, Cast: Ayushmann Khurrana, Rashmika Mandanna, Nawazuddin Siddiqui, Paresh Rawal, Sathyaraj, Fasial Malik, Geeta Aggarwal, Rachit Singh, Duration: 149 Minutes, Rating: 4.

Thamma delivers pure entertainment on the big screen, masterfully blending folklore, family dynamics, fantasy, and the spectacle characteristic of a full-fledged franchise. With this latest release in the Maddock horror universe, director Aditya Sarpotdar elevates Indian genre cinema to unprecedented heights. It’s bizarre, clever, and wildly imaginative—yet deeply relatable. While Stree was frightful and subversive and Bhediya ventured into the wilderness, Thamma triumphs by intertwining horror with love, resulting in a completely unique cinematic experience.

The plot is set in a mythical forest where ancient guardians awaken, and while it doesn’t focus solely on Thamma, it successfully creates a strange fantasy universe governed by its own rules, curses, and repercussions. Unlike other supernatural thrillers, this film leans towards emotional comedy, infused with humor and the innate human drive to protect loved ones, even at personal cost. It maintains a sense of faith rather than resorting to sheer terror. The humor is present without crossing into farce, and it conveys emotional depth without falling into melodrama.

One of the central characters is the journalist, portrayed by Khurrana, who hails from a small town. His unexpected brush with the supernatural triggers events he struggles to comprehend. Initially, he comes across as endearing and relatable, but eventually, he evolves into a more intense figure. Mandanna delivers a grounded emotional performance, showcasing both passion and sensitivity, steering clear of the typical over-the-top horror-comedy tropes.

The continuation of the story is a stunning piece of artistry, featuring intense battles, character transformations, and a breathtaking showdown between Alok and Bhediya (played by Varun Dhawan). The special effects are top-notch, and their confrontation hints at a deeper relationship that will undoubtedly shape the storyline within this cinematic universe. This grand moment is one that would evoke applause in a packed theater, leaving viewers with more questions than answers. How are these two characters interconnected? I assure you, the revelation will exceed your imagination.

In terms of world-building, the film is packed with easter eggs and character callbacks, with one notable highlight being the return of Sar Kata, the menacing character from Stree, ominously foreshadowing the significant dangers ahead for the Maddock horror universe. The connection between Stree 2 and Thamma is robust, and by the conclusion, it becomes clear that something monumental is on the horizon. The groundwork for a massive crossover has been laid.

The performances are commendable overall. Paresh Rawal provides much-needed comic relief as the sarcastic and astute father, while Nawazuddin Siddiqui commands the screen with his intense and dark presence. The evolution of his character suggests the dawn of something greater and potentially pivotal in the future conflict between good and evil in this ever-expanding universe.

Additionally, Sathyaraj returns as Elvis, the quirky paranormal expert dubbed the 'Hand of God.' However, this time, his role extends beyond mere comic relief—his presence subtly alters the larger narrative. In a crucial moment, Elvis points to a critical connection between Alok’s newly transformed Betaal and Bhediya, the last seen struggling with Sar Kata in Stree 2. This clever, understated link hints at forthcoming events, and fans of the Maddock universe will feel the excitement of the unfolding larger plot.

Moreover, the much-discussed cameo by Nora Fatehi serves not just as a glamour-filled moment but also enriches the lore. Her reveal fosters a significant emotional connection to Stree and stands out as a major highlight for long-time fans of the universe. Acting as a sort of fan service, it rewards attentive viewers and offers a fresh perspective on the established world. Is she the key to unlocking its secrets, or is there more beneath the surface?

Before its release, the excitement was primarily centered on item numbers and flashy visuals. However, Thamma defies expectations. True to the Maddock style, every musical number serves a purpose—be it character exploration, narrative progression, or deepening the mythos. There are no superfluous distractions, no hollow spectacles; only narrative-driven songs that maintain the emotional momentum of the story. This represents a significant revitalization of the Bollywood horror formula, and the outcome is superb.