Phobia

A 'horror' film with a marked difference, Phobia juggles with familiar elements of the genre - fear, shock, surprise, mystery - with a steady sense of thematic purpose. Pavan Kirpalani's third directorial venture is spine-chilling enough not to call too much attention to its inherent whimsicalities and the attendant slip-ups. Whatever flaws there are in the film - and there are many for sure - are offset by a riveting performance by Radhika Apte as a successful painter who has more than just the ravages of a psychological disorder to contend with. Phobia is a canny flick that places known genre conventions in fresh light, the kind that bestows new life on them. Watch this film for the many surprises it springs and, of course, for Radhika Apte in full flow.

Director Pawan Kirpalani smartly weaves a thrilling story. Every scene has a deeper meaning and relevance. The screenplay stays true to the context. Nothing is out of the place. There are several scenes which are disturbing but then there are a few scenes which end up as humorous in spite of the thrilling built up. In spite of cinematic merits, PHOBIA is not everyone's cup of tea. It is not your regular entertainment and has a niche appeal. On the whole, PHOBIA is a well-made taut thriller with an amazing performance by Radhika Apte. However the in film blood and gore may not be to everyone's liking affecting the film's overall box office prospects as it will appeal to a rather niche audience. Another factor that may affect the film is the low key promotion of the film due to which many people aren't aware of PHOBIA's release. But for them who have an appetite for the unconventional thrills and psychological mind games, don't miss PHOBIA.