Mayasabha Movie Review: Is Rahi Anil Barve's new film as good as Tumbbad? Javed Jaffrey delivers a career-best performance in this dark psychological
Mumbai:
After delivering a cult masterpiece like Tumbbad, director Rahi Anil Barve returns with another atmospheric marvel. 'Mayasabha: The Hall of Illusion' is currently making waves, primarily for its lead actor, Javed Jaffrey. Known for his impeccable comic timing and dance moves, Jaffrey undergoes a complete transformation here, delivering a haunting performance that will leave you speechless.
Is this dark drama worth your time? Let's dive into the detailed review.
The Plot: A Hall of Greed and Ghosts
The film is set within the decaying walls of an old, single-screen cinema in Mumbai. Parmeshwar Khanna (Javed Jaffrey), once a successful film producer, now lives in squalor within the ruins of this theater with his son, Vasu (Mohammad Samad).
Rumor has it that Khanna has hidden 40 kilograms of gold somewhere inside the theater. However, due to his deteriorating mental health and amnesia, he cannot remember the location. Driven by greed, two criminals, Zeenat (Veena Jamkar) and Ravan (Deepak Damle), infiltrate the theater to find the loot. What follows is a intense 'mind game' where the line between reality and illusion blurs. Is the gold real, or is it just a figment of Khanna’s broken mind?
Performances: Javed Jaffrey Reimagined
The soul of this film is undoubtedly Javed Jaffrey. He sheds his 'comic' skin entirely to embody Parmeshwar Khanna—a helpless, mentally unstable man trapped in his own past. His body language, the vacancy in his eyes, and his portrayal of despair make this arguably the best performance of his 40-year career.
Supporting him is Tumbbad fame Mohammad Samad, who plays the son with remarkable restraint and maturity. Veena Jamkar and Deepak Damle deliver solid performances as the antagonists, maintaining the film’s tension until the very end.
Direction & Technical Aspects
Rahi Anil Barve is a master of atmosphere. In Mayasabha, the cinematography plays a crucial role. The interplay of light and shadow creates a claustrophobic and eerie vibe, making the decaying theater feel like a character itself. The sound design is immersive, amplifying the psychological horror without relying on cheap jump scares.
What Works (Pros)
- Javed Jaffrey: A performance that deserves awards. It is rare to see him in such a raw, intense avatar.
- Direction: Rahi Anil Barve’s grip on the dark, psychological genre is firm and compelling.
- Atmosphere: The production design and cinematography are top-notch.
What Doesn't Work (Cons)
- Pacing: The film burns slowly. Viewers accustomed to fast-paced commercial Bollywood masala might find it dragging in parts.
- Niche Appeal: It is an art-house style psychological drama, which may not appeal to a mass audience seeking light entertainment.
The Verdict
Mayasabha is not just a movie; it is an unsettling experience. It explores the dark corners of the human mind—greed, memory, and madness. If you appreciate cinema that challenges you and features stellar acting, this is unmissable. Go for Javed Jaffrey; stay for the haunting storytelling.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐½ (3.5/5)
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