Critiqued: Raaz 3

If these are the standards Bollywood has set for horror films, then we are sorely disappointed. If the standards are for thrillers, then we feel a little better. We are of course referring to the sexy, smooch filled (at least by Indian standards), promiscuous, horror thriller that is Vikram Bhatt's Raaz 3. It stars Bollywood's own serial kisser Emraan Hashmi, the long legged beauty Bipasha Basu and the innocent looking newcomer Esha Gupta.

When it comes to horror/thrillers, usually the story is pretty weak and Raaz 3 doesn't disappoint here. What we mean is don't expect some fantastically crazy good plot. It is actually pretty bad... and there are a couple of scenes which will make you question your presence at the theater. What you can expect is a few thrilling moments (these were actually pretty good) mixed with some horrendous horror sequences. Add in a couple of spicy songs mixed with some love scenes and you have the recipe for almost every thriller out there. The same holds true here. One thing we didn't understand though, is why they even bothered to shoot the film in 3D. It isn't as though things were flying out of the screen or anything... On the acting front, we'll just not bother with Emraan and Esha since their performances seemed piddly in comparison to Bipasha's. An absolutely riveting performance, Bipasha's role will make you sit at the edge of your seat every time she is on screen. Words to describe her role would include diabolical, ruthless, scheming and conniving to name a few. This was definitely the saving grace of the film. She still can't dance to save her life but we'll save that for another time.

Normally we wouldn't recommend watching this film in the theaters, but in this case we'll say yes simply because of some of the thrilling moments which would definitely be missed if watched at home. Oh and don't bother paying for the 3D version of the film. And lastly, parents, leave the kids at home.

Our Rating: 

Raaz 3 is currently playing at the Satyam, INOX and PVR cinemas in Chennai.