Hisss (2010)

Hisss (2010): A Unique Blend of Mythology, Horror, and Drama

Introduction

"Hisss" is a 2010 Indian film that merges the genres of horror, drama, and comedy with a distinctive twist rooted in Indian mythology. Directed by Jennifer Lynch and written by Akshat Verma, the film offers an unusual cinematic experience, blending supernatural elements of the mythical cobra woman with human emotions and suspenseful storytelling. This movie stands out as a unique entry in Bollywood's horror genre, featuring strong performances, especially by its lead actress Mallika Sherawat.

Plot Summary

The film follows the story of a shape-shifting serpent woman, also known as a Nagin, who embarks on a relentless mission to find and rescue her mate, who has been captured by unscrupulous humans. The Nagin, named Naagin and portrayed hauntingly by Mallika Sherawat, combines sensuality and ferocity as she transforms from a human to a cobra and vice versa. The narrative delves into themes of love, betrayal, and revenge while showcasing the mystical folklore surrounding Nagins, creatures known in Indian mythology as serpentine beings gifted with supernatural powers.

As Naagin hunts down her mate, the film unfolds various layers of human greed, exploitation, and the clash between nature and modernity. The storyline is laced with moments of tension and dark humor, creating an unusual tonal balance that keeps the audience engaged.

Main Cast

• Mallika Sherawat stars as the central character – the snake woman Naagin. Her captivating performance is central to the film’s impact, combining allure and menace effectively to embody a mythical creature on a quest for justice.
• Irrfan Khan plays the character of Inspector Vikram, who is involved in unraveling the mystery surrounding the Nagin and the broader supernatural occurrences. His portrayal adds depth and gravitas to the film, contributing a grounded human perspective amid myth and fantasy.
• Other important cast members include Divya Dutta and Tinnu Anand, who enrich the narrative with their supporting roles, each portraying characters that highlight different facets of human nature and the film's mythological backdrop.

Director and Writer

The movie is directed by Jennifer Lynch, an American filmmaker known for her distinctive style in horror and psychological thrillers. Her direction brings an international sensibility to Bollywood storytelling, blending atmospheric visuals with traditional Indian mythology. The script is penned by Akshat Verma, whose writing weaves together elements of folklore, drama, and dark humor, creating a script that is both intriguing and unusual within the Bollywood horror genre.

Music and Songs

Music in Bollywood plays a pivotal role, and "Hisss" features a soundtrack composed by tablas maestro Zakir Hussain along with Amar Mohile, renowned for their versatile and emotive soundscapes. The songs and background score greatly contribute to the mystical and eerie atmosphere of the film.

• "Hisss" Title Track: Sung hauntingly by renowned Indian singer Shreya Ghoshal, this song weaves an enchanting melody that captures the eerie sensuality of the Nagin character.
• "Panch hi ke sath" is another notable track featuring vocals by Sunidhi Chauhan, known for her dynamic and powerful voice. This song juxtaposes energetic rhythms with the film’s dark themes.
• The soundtrack also includes instrumental pieces with a fusion of traditional Indian instruments and modern sound design, enhancing the film’s mystical and suspenseful mood.

Reception and Impact

Upon release, "Hisss" received mixed reviews, with many critics praising the bold attempt to integrate Indian serpent mythology into a Bollywood horror framework. Mallika Sherawat’s performance, in particular, was highlighted as a powerful and memorable portrayal of the Nagin. However, some reviews noted that the film’s pacing and screenplay could have been tighter to fully capitalize on its intriguing premise.

Despite the mixed critical reception, the film is appreciated for its unique style, atmospheric visuals, and the way it explores themes not commonly tackled in mainstream Bollywood cinema. It provided Bollywood a fresh perspective on the horror genre and contributed to expanding the range of horror narratives in India. Furthermore, the collaboration between an American director and Indian writers and artists created an interesting cultural fusion.

Conclusion

"Hisss" is a daring and distinctive entry in the Bollywood horror genre that appeals to viewers interested in mythology, supernatural stories, and complex female protagonists. With an engaging plot about love, revenge, and transformation, complemented by a memorable soundtrack, it stands as a notable example of cross-cultural filmmaking. Whether you are a fan of horror, Indian folklore, or simply curious about different storytelling styles, "Hisss" offers an experience that is equal parts eerie and captivating.

For those interested in exploring the film further, the official IMDb page provides comprehensive details about the cast, crew, and user reviews: Hisss (2010) on IMDb.