Ezra (2017)

Ezra (2017) is a gripping Hindi horror thriller that masterfully blends elements of mystery and supernatural suspense, captivating audiences with its eerie storyline and exceptional performances. Directed by Jay K., this movie has become a significant entry in the Indian horror genre, praised for its atmospheric storytelling and chilling narrative.

Plot Summary:

The film revolves around the protagonist Ranjan Mathew, played with depth and intensity by Prithviraj Sukumaran. Ranjan, along with his wife Priya (portrayed by Priya Anand), moves into a new apartment in Mumbai, unaware of the sinister past linked to the place. The couple's life begins to unravel when they discover an ancient Jewish box called 'Ezra's box' during their home renovation. This box is believed to be cursed, unleashing malevolent supernatural forces that start tormenting them. As paranormal occurrences escalate, Ranjan embarks on a quest to uncover the dark history behind the box and the vengeful spirit attached to it. His investigation leads to a chilling revelation about a tragic event from decades ago involving a child named Ezra, whose restless spirit now seeks retribution.

Principal Cast and Characters:

• Prithviraj Sukumaran as Ranjan Mathew: The central character, whose determination to protect his family leads him into the heart of the haunting mystery.
• Priya Anand as Priya Mathew: Ranjan's supportive wife, who also falls victim to the supernatural occurrences.
• Prathap Pothen: Appears in a critical supporting role that connects past and present events.
• Indrajith Sukumaran: Plays a key role contributing to the unraveling of the mystery.
• Other Notable Cast Members include Vijayaraghavan, Babu Antony, Bharat Dabholkar, Thara Kalyan, Alencier Ley Lopez, Sudev Nair, Tovino Thomas, and Manikandan R. Achari, who collectively enhance the depth and intrigue of the film.

Direction and Writing:

Directed by Jay K., who brings a unique vision to the genre by combining traditional horror with psychological thriller elements, Ezra stands out as an intelligent horror film rather than just relying on jump scares. The screenplay and story were also crafted by the director himself, merging folklore, cultural symbolism, and emotional drama carefully. The writing effectively builds tension while exploring themes of trauma, loss, and revenge, infused with specific elements of Jewish mysticism rarely seen in Indian cinema.

Technical and Artistic Merit:

One of the film’s highlights is its meticulous cinematography, which uses shadows and lighting to create an unsettling atmosphere that keeps the audience on edge. The sound design, coupled with composer Rahul Raj’s haunting musical score, amplifies the suspense and panic experienced by the characters, making the supernatural elements feel more tangible and terrifying.

Music and Songs:

Unlike many Bollywood movies, Ezra focuses more on background scores rather than typical song-and-dance performances. Rahul Raj's music largely supports the eerie atmosphere instead of traditional melodies or chartbusters. The soundtrack solemnly amplifies the mood, using tribal and religious musical motifs to reflect the folklore at the heart of the story. This approach ensures the narrative remains tight and immersive without musical interruptions that could detract from the tense storytelling.

Reception and Impact:

Ezra was appreciated for pushing the envelope in the Indian horror genre, noted especially for its innovative storyline and authentic cultural references. The performances, particularly that of Prithviraj Sukumaran and Priya Anand, were lauded for their emotional depth and conviction amid terrifying situations. Furthermore, the movie’s use of a relatively unexplored mythological artifact and its associated backstory sets it apart from conventional horror films prevalent at the time.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, Ezra (2017) is an exemplary Hindi horror-thriller that combines supernatural elements with a strong mystery narrative and emotionally driven characters. Directed and written by Jay K., featuring stellar performances led by Prithviraj Sukumaran and Priya Anand, the movie offers a fresh take on horror by incorporating cultural depth and psychological complexity. It remains a must-watch for fans of the genre looking for a film that is both chilling and intellectually engaging.

Subscribe to our mailing list to receive updates for latest hindi movies. Stay Connected!