Vash Level 2 review: A genuinely terrifying and extremely satisfying sequel
Making a sequel to a critically acclaimed and commercially successful film is, in itself, a formidable undertaking. When compounded by the fact that the original has already been remade in Hindi, the challenge of crafting a sequel that meets elevated expectations becomes even more difficult. Historically, many sequels in Indian cinema fail to live up to the lofty standards set by their predecessors. However, there are notable exceptions such as "Tanu Weds Manu Returns"(2015), "Baahubali 2: The Conclusion"(2017), "Drishyam 2"(2021), "Stree 2"(2024), and "Dhoom 2"(2006), which not only meet the anticipation but also shatter box office records. The 2023's critically acclaimed and National Award-winning Gujarati film "Vash"(subsequently remade in Hindi as "Shaitaan," featuring Ajay Devgn, R. Madhavan, and Janki Bodiwala) now finds its sequel, 'Vash Level 2', poised to join this illustrious list.
Twelve years have elapsed since Atharva's (Hitu Kanodia) daughter, Aarya (Janki Bodiwala), became ensnared by the malevolent and sadistic black magician, Pratap. Although Atharva succeeded in imprisoning Pratap in a remote location, having severed his tongue, Aarya remains shackled by the enchantment, displaying an unresponsive and withdrawn demeanor. 'Vash Level 2' commences with a group of schoolgirls arriving at their opulent private school via a school bus. These girls engage in animated chatter within the cafeteria during their lunch break. Suddenly, a blurred male figure enters the cafeteria, plunging the atmosphere into an eerie silence; faces contort with trepidation, and the girls instinctively leap from the terrace of their school in unison.
Much like its predecessor, this psychological horror sequel showcases a nefarious male who revels in exerting control over the minds of young girls, relishing in their suffering and anguish. Indeed, he derives pleasure from witnessing the torment of girls and the heartache of their parents. The girls are entirely subjugated by this enchanter, compelled to obey his every command, even to the extent of committing suicide. One girl ominously asserts that they will not relent until this sinister figure locates Pratap.
'Vash Level 2' defies the conventions of a typical psychological horror film. One aspect I found particularly commendable is its unflinching portrayal of violence. Writer-director Krishnadev Yagnik has executed a masterful job, particularly in scenes depicting the girls enduring profound agony while still adhering to the malevolent black magician's commands. The film is replete with cruelty, most notably when the girls erupt from the school, unleashing chaos as they attack and kill anyone in their path, employing stabbing and bludgeoning methods. While some viewers may be unnerved by these sequences, the moment that truly instilled fear in me was when the magician nonchalantly instructs a girl to cease breathing, and she complies until her demise.
Having witnessed his daughter's suffering for twelve interminable years, Atharva has transformed into a callous figure, impervious to the sight of innocent girls perishing—"even if you order them to set themselves on fire right now, I won't flinch," he declares to the monster.
While the sinister black magician revels in tormenting young women, Atharva has almost become the antithesis of the same coin. Although he makes his entrance relatively late in the film, I was particularly captivated by how the writer-director portrays a father who has been existing almost as a specter. He has lost his wife and son, and his daughter remains ensnared in an enchantment. Each day, he witnesses his daughter alongside Pratap, the architect of his despair. He subjects Pratap to relentless torment. He does not desire his demise, for that would be too merciful. Instead, he yearns for him to endure suffering and experience anguish akin to his own. The film escalates the tension masterfully, keeping the audience invested and engaged right up to the climax. While many may find the conclusion underwhelming or anticlimactic, particularly due to its cautious approach that shies away from exploring new territory, I appreciated this very ending. Krishnadev Yagnik refrains from inserting a plot twist in the climax merely for shock value. Despite its concise runtime of one hour and forty minutes, 'Vash Level 2' maintains a palpable sense of anxiety throughout, immersing us in the thrill and tension.
Hitu Kanodia has done an excellent job as an emotionally tormented father. He brings the authenticity to his character. Hiten Kumar ruthlessly portrays a cunning man who wants to find Pratap and enjoy controlling the minds of young girls. Janki comparatively doesn't have much screentime but her scenes are quite intense as you can sense the hidden pain behind her smile!
'Vash Level 2' is a chilling yet satisfying sequel that gives you edge of the seat thrills with disturbing silences and growing tension.
Cast: Janki Bodiwala, Hitu Kanodia, Hiten Kumar, Monal Gajjar
Writer: Krishnadev Yagnik
Director: Krishnadev Yagnik
Comments
Post a Comment