In 2021, Bollywood gave a terrifying new addition to the horror genre with the release of Chhorii. Directed by Vishal Furia and starring Nushrratt Bharuccha, this movie takes audiences on a gripping journey through the realms of supernatural horror while portraying societal horrors. It is a remake of the 2017 Marathi film Lapachhapi, which itself was highly praised for its raw portrayal of rural life, fear, and superstitions.

Chhorii combines elements of supernatural horror with emotional drama, weaving a tale of maternal love, survival, and societal oppression. The film explores themes of patriarchy, oppression, and the unseen terror that often dwells within the very fabric of society. In this comprehensive review, we will dive deep into the narrative, performances, direction, cinematography, and much more.

Plot Overview

The plot of Chhorii revolves around Sakshi (played by Nushrratt Bharuccha), an eight-month-pregnant woman who finds herself caught between a terrifying supernatural world and the very real dangers posed by societal pressures. The film starts with Sakshi and her husband, who are on the run from a series of tragic events, seeking refuge in a secluded house in a rural area. However, as soon as they settle in, things begin to take a dark turn.

Sakshi’s peaceful retreat soon turns into a horrifying nightmare as she begins to experience unexplainable paranormal occurrences. She is forced to confront a malevolent force that threatens not only her life but also the life of her unborn child. Throughout the film, the tension rises as Sakshi is pushed to her limits, trying to save herself and her baby while dealing with the oppressive societal forces that also lurk in the background.

The film combines a supernatural horror plot with the very real fears of a woman who is dealing with societal expectations, especially the fear of being a mother in a patriarchal world. This dual narrative of the paranormal and social horror adds layers of depth to the film, making it both a gripping and thought-provoking experience.

Themes Explored in Chhorii

Maternal Instincts and Survival

At the heart of Chhorii is the theme of maternal love and the survival instinct that kicks in when a mother’s child is threatened. Sakshi, as a soon-to-be mother, is not only fighting for her life but also for the life of her unborn child. Her journey is one of resilience, and the film beautifully portrays her struggle against both external and internal forces, all while maintaining an emotional core that speaks to every mother’s primal instincts to protect her child.

Societal Oppression

The film delves into the societal pressure women face, especially when it comes to motherhood. Sakshi’s pregnancy, the fear of her being a single mother, and her interactions with her husband and his family showcase the struggles of women in a patriarchal society. These themes play a significant role in the narrative, and the supernatural terror becomes a reflection of the societal oppression she faces.

Fear of the Unknown

At its core, Chhorii is a horror movie that taps into the primal fear of the unknown. The supernatural occurrences that Sakshi experiences, including visions of spirits and eerie noises, are terrifying not just because they are unexplainable, but because they embody the fear of things we cannot control. The film beautifully builds tension and unease, making the viewer question what is real and what is imagined.

The Concept of Guilt and Redemption

As the story progresses, Sakshi’s past and the reason why she is facing such horrific circumstances slowly come to light. Guilt and redemption emerge as important emotional undertones of the film. As Sakshi is forced to confront her past mistakes and the dark secrets surrounding her, the film presents a narrative of redemption that is both poignant and haunting.

Performances

Nushrratt Bharuccha as Sakshi

Nushrratt Bharuccha gives a stellar performance as Sakshi, portraying the character with immense depth and nuance. As a woman on the brink of motherhood and facing the ultimate test of survival, Bharuccha conveys fear, strength, and determination in her portrayal of Sakshi. Her performance is the emotional backbone of the film, making her the perfect fit for this role. She effectively conveys the vulnerability and bravery of a woman who must fight against both supernatural forces and the oppressive norms of society.

Mita Vashisht

Mita Vashisht plays an important role in the film, adding to the mystery and suspense. Her portrayal of a character with hidden motives adds a layer of intrigue to the story. Her presence on screen is commanding, and she complements the emotional arc of the film with her intense and layered performance.

Rajesh Jais

Rajesh Jais plays a pivotal role in the film and adds to the atmospheric tension. His performance provides depth to the rural setting and brings a sense of authenticity to the narrative. His portrayal of a character whose presence in the story slowly unravels adds a unique flavor to the film.

Direction and Cinematography

Vishal Furia, who also directed Lapachhapi, brings his vision to Chhorii with skill and precision. His direction is sharp and engaging, ensuring the film remains taut and suspenseful. The pacing is excellent, keeping the audience on the edge of their seats throughout.

The cinematography by Vikas D. R. plays a crucial role in building the film’s haunting atmosphere. The choice of rural settings, dimly lit houses, and eerie landscapes helps immerse the viewer into the world of Chhorii. The camera work cleverly captures the escalating tension and uses light and shadows to create a sense of foreboding. The cinematography, coupled with an intense background score, enhances the supernatural horror aspects, making it a visually engaging experience.

Soundtrack and Background Score

The film’s soundtrack and background score are integral to its success. The music, composed by Karan Kulkarni, adds a layer of tension and fear, making every scene feel more intense. The sound design also plays a critical role in building suspense, especially during the supernatural sequences.

The eerie sounds that accompany the paranormal occurrences heighten the fear factor, and the score blends seamlessly with the film’s tone. The music amplifies the sense of dread and unease, making the viewer feel the horror in every scene.

Cultural Significance and Social Commentary

Beyond its horror elements, Chhorii is a film that offers a social commentary on the treatment of women in rural India. It highlights the superstitions, fears, and patriarchal norms that often shape the lives of women in such settings. The film critiques these social structures by intertwining them with supernatural horror, making a powerful statement about the fear and oppression women face in society.

The horror is not just of ghosts or spirits, but of the societal expectations that restrict and harm women, especially those in vulnerable situations like pregnancy. Chhorii raises awareness about how these cultural beliefs and fears can affect women’s well-being, both mentally and physically.

Critical Reception and Audience Reaction

Upon its release, Chhorii received positive reviews for its atmosphere, performances, and thought-provoking narrative. Critics praised Nushrratt Bharuccha for her compelling performance, and the film’s slow-burn horror was appreciated for being intense yet emotionally driven. The way the movie combined supernatural elements with real-world societal issues was seen as a fresh take on the horror genre.

Audience reactions were also positive, particularly for those who appreciated the blend of drama and horror. While some found the pacing slow in certain parts, most agreed that the film provided a unique viewing experience. The horror elements were praised for their ability to evoke genuine fear without relying on jump scares, making the film a more cerebral experience.

Conclusion

Chhorii is not just another supernatural horror film; it is a powerful commentary on the fears and struggles women face in society. The film successfully blends horror with emotional drama, creating a narrative that is both terrifying and thought-provoking. With strong performances, particularly from Nushrratt Bharuccha, an intense atmosphere, and a gripping storyline, Chhorii is a must-watch for fans of the horror genre who are looking for something deeper and more meaningful.

Whether you’re watching it for the chilling horror or the poignant social commentary, Chhorii is a film that stays with you long after the credits roll. It serves as a reminder of the unseen and often ignored struggles that women endure and highlights the need to confront both societal and supernatural fears.