Dybbuk 2021

Art & Craft

Direction and cinematography are serviceable, delivering clear framing and occasional atmospheric shots. The production design captures a modest village setting, but visual polish is uneven, relying on intermittent special‑effects that feel dated. Editing maintains a steady rhythm yet offers little stylistic flair. Overall, the craft is competent but lacks the distinctive polish expected of a high‑budget horror remake.

Character & Emotion

Emraan Hashmi delivers a reasonably expressive performance that anchors the film, while several supporting actors appear disengaged or under‑developed. The lead’s nuanced facial work adds occasional emotional weight, yet the ensemble chemistry is uneven, with some roles feeling perfunctory. Character arcs remain shallow, limiting audience investment. In sum, the acting provides modest highlights amid broader inconsistencies.

Story & Flow

The narrative follows the familiar trope of a haunted box, mirroring the Malayalam original without adding fresh twists. Plot points are predictable and the pacing feels rushed, especially toward the climax, leaving key motivations underexplored. While the premise holds some intrigue, the execution lacks depth and originality, resulting in a storyline that rarely sustains tension.

Sensory Experience

The soundtrack is minimal, lacking the throbbing crescendos typical of horror, and the absence of songs reduces rhythmic momentum. Sound design provides occasional atmospheric moments, such as a surreal dream‑like sequence, but overall fails to generate sustained dread. Visual style includes a few strikingly brutal scenes, yet the ambient audio and musical cues are insufficient to heighten tension.

Rewatch Factor

Given its reliance on familiar genre beats and a storyline that feels rushed, the film offers limited incentive for repeat viewings. While dedicated fans of the lead actor might revisit select scenes, the lack of novel scares or narrative depth reduces its lasting appeal. Overall, the movie is best suited for a single viewing.