Gaslight, the newest addition to Disney+ Hotstar’s library, is a captivating psycho-thriller that has all the makings of a great suspense movie. With its hauntingly beautiful setting in an old haveli, eerie paintings, an alleged murder, and a well-groomed hotel staff that sends shivers down your spine, Gaslight promises to be an unforgettable ride. But does it deliver on its promise?
Gaslight follows the story of Meesha, a young woman who returns to her childhood home, an old and rustic haveli in Rajasthan. However, her homecoming is far from welcoming as her father is nowhere to be found, and she’s plagued by haunting nightmares. Strange occurrences, including ghostly apparitions and unexplained sounds in the night, leave Meesha on edge. As she tries to uncover the truth about her father’s disappearance, she’s met with skepticism from the enigmatic and alluring woman who resides in the mansion, Chitrangada Singh.
The film’s tempo and horror movie feels draw inspiration from Alfred Hitchcock’s Psycho, with Meesha exploring the creepy-looking palace in the dark and rain. The absence of songs in Gaslight, and the use of psychological means to make characters question their sanity, create a suspenseful atmosphere that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
Gaslight has its moments of stylishly executed scenes, particularly in the murder sequence against the sand-dunes. The stark contrast of shadows against the dark night sky adds a touch of noir to the film, capturing the viewer’s attention. However, the film would have benefited from more of these moments, as they are few and far between.
Gaslight Character Development is quite impressive
Gaslight film’s acting and character development are impressive, with Sara Ali Khan working on her accent and acting skills, and Chitrangada Singh successfully carrying all the suspicion of her character. Vikrant Massey’s transition in his character is so smooth that you barely notice it, despite expecting it from the start.
While Gaslight visually has all the necessary elements required for a thriller, it does lag in some areas, such as the screenplay and character development between Kapil (Vikrant Massey) and his love interest in the film.
Director Pavan Kirpalani has done a decent job of pulling off a difficult genre, but the film could have been better. However, the twist in the end makes up for the shortcomings, and the film blooms in the last 15 minutes.
All in all, Gaslight is a refreshing cooler in the sea of psycho thrillers, and definitely worth a watch. The film may have its flaws, but its suspenseful atmosphere, acting, and twist ending make it a compelling thriller.