Expectations
There is a huge amount of fan following all over the world for horror, thriller and psychological thrillers. Sadly, in our country, despite a decent fan following the movies made under this genre are nowhere in comparison with international standards. Though there were few films like 'No Smoking' and 'Kartik Calling Kartik' which tried to establish the genre in our country and that too with total originality. Sadly, films like 'Prague' and few more took this genre to pseudo level just to making it look different. 'Phobia' starring Radhika Apte has a decent level of expectation, but only within those people who love this genre and have seen previous work for RadhikaApte.
Story
'Phobia' is a story of a well-known painter Mehak (Radhika Apte) whose life changes after a rape attempt over her by a taxi driver. Mehak develops agoraphobia after this incident and fails to come out from her home as she feels it's dangerous and unsafe outside. Mehak condition starts to deteriorate due to which her best friend Shaan (Satyadeep Mishra) settles her into an empty apartment. Mehak comes to know about the earlier tenant and starts seeing unimaginable images. There are times when Mahek wants to run away from this house but due to her phobia fails to do so. She also fails to understand what the reality is and what's due to her illness. After a while with help of her neighbor Nikki (Yashaswani Dayama) she comes to the conclusion that the earlier tenant was brutally murdered by her lover Manu (Ankur Vikal).
The 'Glitz' Factor
The story is brilliant and has been presented in a fantastic manner. Right from the first frame the movie keeps you glued to your seat. The movie runs like a bullet train and every scene adds up the curiosity level. There are some superb scenes like featuring Radhika Apte along with Satyadeep and Yashaswani. These scenes keep you highly engaged throughout the film.The cinematography by Jaya Krishna Gummadi is skillful and does full justice to the theme of the film.In most of the films from this genre background music is always loud and jarring, but in case of 'Phobia' it acts as an additional screenplay. Boddu Daniel adds the perfect sound required to enhance the film.Director Pawan Kripalani comes up with a marvelous film made under this genre. He keeps you thoroughly engaged in the film and makes you react with every scene from the film. He keeps it very simple yet, presents it in a most twisted manner.
Radhika Apte is an exceptional actress, but in 'Phobia' she sets the benchmark to the peak. Everything about her right from her dialogue delivery to her physical expressions are of top notch. You simply cannot take your eyes away from this fabulous actress in the film. Satyadeep Mishra is wonderful in his part. Ankur Vikal and Yashaswini Dayama lend great support in their respective roles.
The 'Non-Glitz' Factor
There are few repetitive moments in the middle of the film which could have been avoided. Also, Radhika's visuals in the virtual tour were not justified. The second half might sound highly confusing for people who are not familiar with this genre. The masses too might find the film claustrophobia and not like such type of film which is set inside one apartment with minimal characters.
Final 'Glitz'
On an overall basis 'Phobia' is full of twist and chills than the best horror film from our country ever had. It's a skillful film with thrilling experience and will be loved by everyone who loves experimental films, as for all others who love masala entertainers, this is not your cup of tea.
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