Maa: A Lackluster Horror Film Struggling with Its Themes

Maa, directed by Vishal Furia, attempts to weave a horror narrative around a mother's fight against dark forces in Chandarpur. However, the film falls short due to a lack of emotional depth, weak visual effects, and a predictable plot. As Ambika confronts a demonic presence threatening her daughter, the film struggles to create a compelling atmosphere, leaving viewers unengaged. Despite Kajol's performance, the film's execution fails to deliver the thrills expected from a horror story. Discover more about this lackluster film and its missed opportunities.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 27, 2025, 09:27 IST

A Dark Legacy in Chandarpur

In a village called Chandarpur in Bengal, a girl was born into a landlord's family four decades ago. Tragically, she was destined for sacrifice, as her father, a devotee of Kali, believed that offering her life was essential to defeat the demigod Raktabeej.

Fast forward to the present, and Shubhankar (played by Indraneil Sengupta), the landlord's son, experiences a mysterious accident during a visit to his ancestral home. Shubhankar and his wife Ambika (portrayed by Kajol) have long avoided returning to Chandarpur, particularly to protect their 12-year-old daughter, Shweta (Jherin Sharma).

The Horror Unfolds

Despite their reluctance, Ambika and Shweta find themselves in Chandarpur, adhering to the classic horror trope where protagonists ignore all warnings. Ambika soon confronts a demonic presence that threatens Shweta and other young girls in the village.

The issue with Maa lies not in Ambika's questionable decisions—irrationality is often a hallmark of horror—but in the film's overall execution, which feels overly simplistic and weak.

Missed Opportunities

For a narrative centered around a powerful goddess, Maa disappoints with its tame approach. Ambika's quest for miracles is hindered by a sluggish screenplay from Saiwyn Quadras, lackluster visual effects, and awkward connections between her maternal instincts and Kali's divine essence.

Director Vishal Furia's previous works, including Lapachhapi and its Hindi remake Chhorii, showcased women battling patriarchal horrors. However, Maa fails to capture that same intensity.

Technical Shortcomings

The film lacks emotional depth and the technical finesse required for a compelling horror experience. Most scenes fail to create the necessary atmosphere for a story about demonic possession.

When the monster appears, resembling a grumpy version of tree spirits from The Lord of the Rings, it elicits no fear. Additionally, the twist regarding the monster's human accomplice lacks any real shock value.

A Climax That Falls Flat

The film features a haunted jungle adjacent to the mansion, separated only by a few crumbling walls, and a mother who brings her daughter to a place notorious for its dangers to young girls. The narrative fails to engage, especially with a Bengali pre-teen raised in Kolkata who is oblivious to Kali's belief system.

As the film approaches its climax, Ambika attempts to embrace her inner goddess. Despite Kajol's efforts, the film's fate was sealed long before her arrival in Chandarpur.