The Vvaan Review: A Visually Stunning and Fun-Filled Big Screen Experience!
Deepak Kumar Mishra’s The Vvaan: Force of the Forrest is a refreshingly unique folk thriller that seamlessly weaves Indian mythology, Chhath Puja traditions, and sharp humor into an atmospheric big-screen spectacle. Right from the opening scenes, the film hooks you with its vibrant setting and intriguing premise before plunging into an exciting conflict of faith, grief, and ancient folklore.
The film starts on a strong note in Mumbai, where Rishi (Sidharth Malhotra), an engineer, lives with his wife Mamta (Tamannaah Bhatia). Initially planning a relaxing holiday to Goa with his best friend (Maniesh Paul), Rishi changes his plans due to an ancestral land dispute and the realization that resolving it might help secure funds for IVF treatment and baby. For Rishi, as a practical engineer, the call to Devanchal is purely about settling the land matter. However, for Mamta, it is a spiritual bulava (divine calling) to perform Chhath Puja in his native land. Beneath the surface, Rishi is deeply hurt by the goddess Van Devi for something that happened, causing a rift in his faith. The land borders a sacred, mysterious forest governed by the rule that no one can go there after sunset. Once they arrive in Devanchal, the sacred traditions collide with his hidden bitterness, and when the rule is broken, the mystery and ancient chaos begin to unfold.
What truly elevates the film’s narrative is its fantastic balance of tone—blending eerie supernatural tension with a great mixture of comedy that feels entirely natural to the village setting. Sidharth Malhotra delivers an impressive performance, playing Rishi with solid physical energy, charm, and conviction. Together with Tamannaah Bhatia’s heartfelt presence, the first half builds great drama, strong emotions, rich cultural texture, and laugh-out-loud moments, keeping you completely on a cliffhanger by the interval. Sunil Grover is fantastic in a layered, intense turn as the antagonist, while Maniesh Paul and Sulabha Arya add wonderful warmth, sharp banter, and effortless comedic timing to the village setup.
While the second half feels a bit flat as it stretches into the climax, with the director losing focus slightly, the core mystery, emotional stakes, and lighthearted humor hold the film together. The narrative expands into grand supernatural elements, and despite the slight pacing wobble near the end, the ambition, unique setting, and powerful performances keep you thoroughly engaged. Ultimately, The Vvaan begins as a rooted, exciting folk mystery and holds up as a solid, entertaining theatrical experience.
Rating: ***
By Team Cine Buster