A Gujarati Horror-Comedy That Packs Laughs and Chills
Released on January 31, 2025, "Faati Ne?" is a Gujarati horror-comedy that dares to venture into a genre still finding its footing in regional cinema. Directed by Faisal Hashmi and co-written with Fenil Dave, this film brings together two bumbling cops, a haunted Melbourne mansion, and a blend of laughs and scares that keeps you hooked—if not always on the edge of your seat. Starring Hitu Kanodia as Paramlal and Smit Pandya as Padamlal, with a ghostly twist from Akash Zala, "Faati Ne?" is a rollercoaster of emotions that mostly delivers on its promise of entertainment. But does it truly elevate the horror-comedy genre in Gujarati cinema, or does it stumble under its own ambitions? Let’s dive in.
The Plot: A Night of Chaos and Comedy
The story follows Paramlal and Padamlal, two Gujarati police officers stationed in Melbourne, whose ineptitude lands them in hot water. Fired after a series of blunders, they’re given a shot at redemption by their ex-boss, Matthew: spend a night in a supposedly haunted mansion to prove it’s ghost-free and saleable. For Paramlal, the stakes are personal—his daughter’s custody hearing looms, adding a layer of emotional depth to his character. What unfolds is a night of eerie encounters, slapstick humor, and unexpected heart, as the duo grapples with both supernatural forces and their own shortcomings.
The premise is simple yet effective, leaning on the classic "haunted house" trope while infusing it with Gujarati sensibilities and a cross-cultural twist. Melbourne as a setting feels fresh for a Gujarati film, offering a visual contrast to the usual rural or urban Indian backdrops. However, the plot doesn’t always capitalize on this uniqueness, often prioritizing gags over atmosphere.
Performances: The Heart of the Humor
The film’s strength lies in its cast. Hitu Kanodia shines as Paramlal, balancing the role of a worried father and a fumbling cop with finesse. His journey carries the emotional weight of the story, grounding the absurdity around him. Smit Pandya, meanwhile, is the comedic MVP as Padamlal. Known for his impeccable timing, Pandya steals every scene with his expressive antics and spot-on dialogue delivery. You can’t help but chuckle at his wide-eyed panic or sly one-liners, even when the script stretches thin.
Akash Zala’s turn as the ghost, Jand, is a surprise highlight. His eerie presence adds a genuine chill, while his interactions with the cops inject a playful menace that keeps the horror-comedy balance intact. Hemin Trivedi’s Baba Bhootmarina is another gem, blending quirky charm with laugh-out-loud moments—his entry alone is worth the price of admission. Supporting players like Chetan Daiya, Kaushambi Bhatt, and a cameo from Mona Thiba Kanodia round out a solid ensemble, though some feel underutilized.
Direction and Craft: A Mixed Bag
Faisal Hashmi’s direction deserves credit for pushing Gujarati cinema into uncharted territory. The jump scares are well-timed, and the CGI—particularly in ghost-heavy scenes—stands out as impressive for a regional production. The visuals, with Melbourne’s stately mansions and moody lighting, elevate the film’s polish, while the Dolby Atmos sound design amplifies the spooky vibe. Tracks like the soulful "Pankhida" and the peppy "Aagho Khas" (by Soham Naik and Deepak Venugopalan) weave seamlessly into the narrative, adding emotional and energetic highs.
Yet, the execution falters at times. The second half drags, with pacing issues that dilute the momentum built early on. Some contemporary dialogue references—while giggle-worthy—feel forced, as if pandering to a younger crowd. The horror elements, though effective in bursts, don’t sustain a consistent sense of dread, often overshadowed by the comedy. It’s a delicate balance, and "Faati Ne?" doesn’t always nail it.
What Works and What Doesn’t
The film’s biggest win is its humor. Whether it’s Pandya’s pratfalls or Trivedi’s deadpan absurdity, the laughs land consistently, making it a stomach-hurting treat for comedy fans. The chemistry between Kanodia and Pandya is electric, carrying the film through its weaker patches. The underlying message—about resilience and redemption—adds a touch of heart without feeling preachy.
On the flip side, the stretched runtime tests patience. The second half could’ve trimmed 15 minutes without losing impact, as some scenes feel repetitive or indulgent. The horror, while competent, lacks the nail-biting tension promised by the trailer. For a genre hybrid, it leans too heavily on comedy, leaving the scares as an afterthought. And while the Melbourne setting is novel, it’s not explored deeply enough to feel integral—why not a haunted Gujarat haveli instead?
The Verdict: A Fun, Flawed Experiment
"Faati Ne?" earns a solid 3.5 out of 5 stars. It’s a commendable step forward for Gujarati cinema, proving the industry can experiment beyond family dramas and slapstick romps. The performances are a delight, the production values impress, and the laughs are plentiful. Yet, it’s not without flaws—a tighter script and bolder horror could’ve made it a standout rather than a pleasant diversion.
Is it worth watching? Absolutely, especially if you’re a fan of Gujarati humor or curious about the genre’s evolution in regional cinema. It’s a family-friendly entertainer (grandparents included!) that delivers more hits than misses. Just don’t expect a groundbreaking masterpiece. "Faati Ne?" is a film that knows what it is—a lighthearted spook-fest with a big heart—and embraces it with gusto. Catch it in a Dolby Atmos theater for the full experience, and you might just leave with a grin and a shiver.
