Alyad Palyad - 8.2/10 · IMDb

Director: Pritam SK Patil

Cast: Makrand Deshpande, Sandeep Pathak, Suresh Vishwakarma, Gaurav More, Saksham Kulkarni, Bhagyam Jain, Chinmay Udgirkar, Anushka Pimplutkar.

From the very beginning of the film "Alyad Palyad," the audience is introduced to an engaging atmosphere filled with intriguing sounds that hint at supernatural elements. The initial scenes immediately capture attention with an elderly man performing rituals, only to be interrupted by an unseen force. This sets the stage for an exciting and unpredictable journey. The writer-director cleverly dispels any initial confusion about the presence of ghosts, allowing viewers to focus on the film’s unique approach to blending horror and comedy.

This seamless blend creates a delightful viewing experience where the curiosity shifts from "Is there a ghost?" to "How does the ghost appear, and what's its story?" The movie's ability to balance fear and humor showcases the trend of comedy horror films, ensuring entertainment from start to finish. The first half of the movie is filled with hilarious moments and playful pranks, keeping the audience engaged and laughing.

In "Alyad Palyad," the use of sound to build suspense is masterfully done, adding depth to the light-hearted narrative. The film’s setup is designed to entertain, and it succeeds brilliantly in doing so. With a talented cast that includes comedy heavyweights like Makrand Deshpande, Sandeep Pathak, Gaurav More, and Saksham Kulkarni, the movie delivers on its promise of entertainment. Makrand Deshpande’s portrayal of Siddhayogi, introduced in the second half, adds an interesting twist to the story. His serious yet amusing character adds a unique flavor, making the climax both engaging and entertaining.

The second half of the film truly shines as the story picks up pace. Sandeep Pathak’s effortless portrayal of Dilya, along with the comedic trio of Gaurav More, Saksham Kulkarni, and Bhagyam Jain, ensures that the situational comedy is top-notch. This combination makes the film genuinely enjoyable, offering plenty of laughs and light-hearted moments.

The movie’s narrative, inspired by traditions from the Konkan region, is enriched with dialogues in the charming western Maharashtra dialect, adding authenticity and a regional touch. "Alyad Palyad" stands out as a commendable effort in the comedy horror genre, providing a refreshing and entertaining experience. It’s a film that doesn't just focus on scares but also delivers humor in a way that keeps the audience thoroughly entertained.