Critic’s Rating: 3.5/5
Review
Gujarati cinema ventures into new territory with Affraa Taffri, a horror-comedy directed by Viral Rao. While the genre itself is ambitious, the film succeeds in delivering a mix of humor and thrills, even if the balance isn’t perfect.
Set in Vishrampur, the story revolves around Trikamdas (Shekhar Shukla), a dying village leader whose final wish is to see his granddaughter Sonal (Khushi Shah) married. What follows is a chaotic blend of family drama, comedy, and supernatural twists that keep the narrative lively and unpredictable.
The ensemble cast adds charm to the story. Mitra Gadhvi shines in his comedic role, bringing laugh-out-loud moments with his impeccable timing. Khushi Shah makes a promising debut, capturing the layers of her character with sincerity and a touch of boldness. Chetan Daiya and Shekhar Shukla deliver dependable performances, keeping the audience engaged.
What works for Affraa Taffri is its effort to bring fresh elements to Gujarati cinema. The humor, though occasionally over-the-top, lands well with fans of slapstick comedy. The supernatural aspects are fun rather than spine-chilling, with lighthearted scares that make the film more accessible to family audiences.
However, the screenplay feels stretched in places, and some jokes don’t land as intended, especially when the film leans too heavily on clichéd humor. The cinematography is functional, and while the background score does its job, it lacks the punch needed to elevate key moments.
Despite its imperfections, Affraa Taffri offers enough entertainment to justify a watch. It’s a commendable attempt to explore a relatively unexplored genre in Gujarati cinema, and its playful tone ensures there’s something for everyone.
Verdict
Affraa Taffri may not reinvent the wheel, but it delivers a hearty mix of laughs and light thrills. For viewers seeking casual, feel-good entertainment with a supernatural twist, this film is worth a watch.
