Thamma is the latest addition to Maddock Films’ horror-comedy universe, following Stree, Roohi, and Bhediya. It attempts to push boundaries by blending ancient mythology, vampire lore, and satirical humor – all wrapped in a festive, OTT aesthetic. The film opens in 323 BC, introducing a Yakshasan (Nawazuddin Siddiqui) who’s imprisoned for centuries. Cut to present day: journalist Alok Goyal (Ayushmann Khurrana) is chasing real stories and stumbles into a village cursed with vampires.
Character Psychology & Performances
- Alok Goyal (Ayushmann) is a truth-seeker, disillusioned by clickbait journalism. His journey reflects a deeper desire to reconnect with authenticity – even if it means facing supernatural horrors.
- Rashmika Mandanna’s character brings grace and emotional depth. Her performance balances charm with quiet strength, often grounding the chaos around her.
- Nawazuddin Siddiqui as the Yakshasan is flamboyant, eerie, and unpredictable – a villain who’s more theatrical than terrifying.
- Paresh Rawal and other cameos add comic relief, though some feel like fan service.
Visual Language & Direction
- The film uses neon-lit horror, slow-motion action, and stylized VFX to create a surreal atmosphere.
- Costume and set design lean into fantasy, with vampire aesthetics inspired by Indian folklore rather than Western tropes.
- The direction tries to balance horror and humor, but the tone occasionally slips – especially in the second half where pacing becomes uneven.
Themes & Emotional Hooks
- Truth vs. Illusion: Alok’s quest for real journalism mirrors the audience’s desire for meaningful stories.
- Myth meets Modernity: The clash between ancient curses and modern skepticism creates tension and humor.
- Festive Fear: Released around Diwali, the film uses celebration as a backdrop for chaos – a metaphor for hidden darkness beneath joy.
Audience Reaction
- Fans of the genre enjoyed the quirky tone, Ayushmann’s performance, and Rashmika’s elegance.
- Critics felt the film lacked the emotional resonance of Stree and the originality of Bhediya.
- Box office response was strong, boosted by franchise loyalty and festive timing.