Mansion 24: Renowned anchor-turned-director Ohmkar, recognized for his contributions to the horror film genre, ventures into the realm of horror series with “Mansion 24.” The cast includes Varalaxmi Sarathkumar, Rao Ramesh, Satya Raj, Avika Gor, and others, and the series is currently available for streaming on Disney Plus Hotstar. Let’s delve into the intricacies of this chilling tale.
Plot Overview:
Amrutha (Varalaxmi Sarathkumar), an investigative journalist, faces a distressing situation when her archaeologist father, Kaalidas (Satya Raj), goes missing after an excavation. Authorities suspect him of absconding with valuable artifacts, tarnishing his reputation. Determined to uncover the truth, Amrutha discovers that her father had visited an ominous mansion before his disappearance. Despite warnings, she ventures into the mansion, setting the stage for a mysterious journey. The series unfolds the secrets within, exploring whether Amrutha can unravel the enigma surrounding her father.
Highlights:
“Mansion 24” comprises several short stories, with engaging narratives featuring Archana Jois and Nandu of KGF fame. While the storylines may not be groundbreaking, the engaging presentation captivates audiences. Performances by Archana Jois, Nandu, and Bindhu Madhavi stand out, complemented by the exquisite production design executed by art director Ashok Kumar. Varalaxmi Sarathkumar delivers a commendable performance, supported by Abhinaya, Avika Gor, and Rajeev Kanakala in their respective roles.
Areas for Improvement:
The initial subplots lack engagement and fail to evoke the anticipated thrills. Drawing parallels with storytelling patterns from films like “Darna Mana Hai” and “Darna Zaroori Hai,” the series falls short of delivering impactful punches. The execution of the Avika Gor storyline, while promising on paper, falters in creating chilling moments or scary scenes.
The key characters, portrayed by talented actors such as Satya Raj, Rao Ramesh, Jaya Prakash, and Tulsi, suffer due to weak writing, lacking emotional depth. Predictability mars the climax twist, presented in a lackluster manner. The series concludes abruptly, emphasizing the need for stronger character development to engage viewers.
Technical Evaluation:
Vikas Badisa’s background score and music, coupled with Rajasekhar’s brilliant cinematography, contribute to the series’s visual richness. Despite the commendable production values, VFX works could have been enhanced. Ohmkar’s direction, while focusing solely on horror elements, falls short in presentation, resulting in monotonous horror elements.
Verdict:
In summary, “Mansion 24” is a horror thriller that heavily relies on conventional horror elements. While a few subplots impress, the overarching plot is marred by weak writing and predictability. The technical aspects, including sound design, visuals, and background score, elevate the viewing experience. However, the overall impact is compromised by the series’s failure to break free from clichés, leading to a less-than-satisfactory conclusion.