Bollywood's latest offering, Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3, has made quite the splash since its release during the Diwali festivities of 2024. Positioned as one of the few 'clean hits' of the year, the horror-comedy managed to garner significant box office success, being classified as a super hit. This film marks another chapter for the popular franchise, which has captivated audiences with its blend of humor and thrill.
Upon its release, Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 didn't just meet audience expectations; it exceeded them, surpassing even major titles like Singham Again. Its unexpected success arrived during what has been reported as one of the worst years for Bollywood at the box office, with 2024 concluding with gross revenues of approximately Rs 2500 crore. This outcome has pushed industry observers to take note of significant performances within the year, particularly those of Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3.
Despite paving the way for record-breaking box office figures, the reception of Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 has been mixed. While it enjoyed substantial initial success, audience reactions have since turned sour, with many internet users criticizing the film's storyline. A particularly vocal segment of viewers has expressed disappointment, claiming the comedic elements felt forced and the performances cringe-worthy. Central to these criticisms is lead actor Kartik Aaryan, whose portrayal has drawn comparisons to Akshay Kumar, leading some to suggest he failed to deliver the expected charm.
Tripti Dimrii, another leading cast member, faced similar critique. Yet not all feedback has been negative. Some fans were quick to commend the supporting roles, especially performers like Rajpal Yadav and Vijay Raaz, who earned accolades for their comedic timing and character portrayals, reflecting their prowess in the film industry.
On social media, many users have shared their opinions, with sentiments ranging from disappointment to praise. For example, reports noted, "...it is getting negative feedback now. Most of the users have claimed the comedy was forced and cringe," indicating the polarizing opinion surrounding the film's narrative execution and comedic delivery.
Interestingly, the film even caught the eye of noted director Sujoy Ghosh, who included Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 among his favorite films of 2024. His tweet, shared on December 29, stirred up reactions from his followers—some were supportive, whereas others questioned his choices, particularly highlighting the inclusion of Pushpa 2 alongside Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3. Ghosh noted, "Some of you appear disturbed by my choice of Pushpa 2. But I loved it ya... I thought it was fantastic," showcasing the diversity of opinions among film enthusiasts.
This alignment with Ghosh signifies the notable impact Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 has had on the industry. While 2024 has proven to be challenging, with prominent box office disappointments such as Fighter and Baby John, the success of Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 stands out. Industry analysts might view this triumph as indicative of the enduring appeal of established franchises, albeit with caution toward the need for innovative storytelling.
Looking at the broader picture, the Hindi cinema industry has experienced fluctuations, with the year demanding fresh content and concepts beyond merely revamping existing franchises. Despite its success, the wane of initial excitement around Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 serves as a reminder of the audience's desire for captivating narratives over mere nostalgia.
Given the film's performance and the current state of the Bollywood box office, filmmakers may want to rethink their approach. While franchises offer the lure of established audiences, the mixed feedback surrounding Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 showcases how originality remains key to long-term success.
Only time will tell if Bollywood can rise from this year's decimation to reclaim its former glory. The extraordinary performance of Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 amid the turbulent scene reflects both the resilience and determination of the industry to innovate and engage audiences. Perhaps it's not just about sequels but crafting stories reflective of current times and sentiments.