Mystery lovers get mixed results from Nawazuddin’s latest thriller
Inspector Jatil Yadav returns to the screen with a new mystery that is both intriguing and uneven. In the latest Bollywood whodunit directed by Honey Trehan, Nawazuddin Siddiqui reprises his role to investigate a chilling case involving the wealthy Bansal family. While the film attempts to recapture the magic of its predecessor, this Raat Akeli Hai The Bansal Murders review suggests it only partially hits the mark.
The story kicks off when a gruesome discovery is made at the Bansal farmhouse. Two intruders leave a blood-soaked pig's head on the property, prompting Jatil Yadav to investigate. What starts as a series of strange threats quickly escalates into a nightmare. In a shocking twist that deviates from traditional murder mysteries, almost the entire Bansal family is wiped out in a single night. This mass murder leaves only a few survivors, including Meera (played by Chitrangda Singh) and two children.
One of the strongest elements of the film is the performance of its lead cast. Nawazuddin Siddiqui is effortlessly natural as the cynical yet sharp inspector. He is well-supported by veteran actress Revathy, whose role as Dr. Panicker adds a layer of depth and intensity to the narrative. Deepti Naval and Rajat Kapoor also provide solid support, though some characters feel underutilized by the script.
However, the film faces hurdles in its pacing and execution. While the climax is genuinely unpredictable—a huge plus for any mystery—the lead-up feels rushed. The screenplay introduces too many family members too quickly, making it difficult for the audience to form an emotional connection before the tragedy strikes. Additionally, the subplots involving Jatil’s personal life feel somewhat forced and disconnected from the main tension.
Overall, the movie offers a decent experience for those who enjoy dark, atmospheric thrillers. It manages to stand out by breaking some genre tropes, even if the writing lacks the polish seen in Trehan's previous work. For moviegoers in Odisha looking for a suspenseful weekend watch, it remains an average fare bolstered by top-tier acting.
