Mandala Murders, the latest crime thriller starring Vaani Kapoor, promises an intense, edge-of-the-seat experience with its dark narrative and psychological undertones. The film follows a determined investigator (Kapoor) as she delves into a series of ritualistic killings linked to an enigmatic mandala pattern. While the premise is gripping and Kapoor delivers a commendable performance, the film struggles to maintain its momentum, leaving viewers with a sense of unfulfilled potential.

Plot Overview: A Web of Mystery and Madness

The story revolves around Inspector Naina Verma (Vaani Kapoor), a sharp but emotionally scarred cop assigned to a high-profile murder case. The victims are found arranged in intricate mandala patterns, suggesting a deranged killer with a twisted artistic vision. As Naina digs deeper, she uncovers a labyrinth of secrets, psychological manipulation, and her own haunting past.

The initial setup is compelling, drawing viewers into a world where fear and symbolism collide. However, as the narrative progresses, the plot becomes convoluted, with too many subplots and red herrings that dilute the central mystery. The film’s attempt to blend psychological horror with procedural crime drama feels uneven, making it difficult for the audience to stay fully engaged.

Vaani Kapoor’s Performance: A Standout in an Otherwise Shaky Film

Vaani Kapoor shines as Naina Verma, bringing depth and intensity to her role. Her portrayal of a tormented yet resilient investigator is convincing, and she carries the film even when the script falters. The emotional weight she brings to her character’s backstory adds layers to an otherwise formulaic thriller.

However, the supporting cast fails to leave a lasting impression. The antagonist, though menacing in concept, lacks depth, and his motivations feel underdeveloped. The film could have benefited from stronger character arcs for both the killer and the secondary players, making the stakes feel higher.

Visuals and Atmosphere: Style Over Substance?

One of the film’s strongest aspects is its visual storytelling. The mandala motifs, eerie crime scenes, and dimly lit cinematography create a haunting atmosphere. The use of symbolism—circles representing cycles of violence and obsession—adds an artistic layer to the narrative.

Yet, while the aesthetics are striking, they often overshadow the storytelling. The director’s focus on style sometimes comes at the expense of pacing and coherence, leaving key plot points feeling rushed or unresolved.

Pacing and Screenplay: Where the Film Stumbles

The biggest flaw in Mandala Murders is its inconsistent pacing. The first half builds tension effectively, but the second half loses steam as the screenplay introduces unnecessary twists. The climax, in particular, feels abrupt and unsatisfying, failing to tie up loose ends convincingly.

A tighter edit and a more focused script could have elevated the film. Instead, viewers are left with a sense of missed opportunities—where a potentially gripping thriller devolves into a muddled mess of ideas.

Final Verdict: A Half-Baked Psychological Thriller

Mandala Murders had all the ingredients of a standout thriller—an intriguing premise, a strong lead performance, and striking visuals. Unfortunately, its weak screenplay, underdeveloped antagonist, and erratic pacing prevent it from reaching its full potential.

For fans of psychological crime dramas, the film may still offer some entertainment, especially for Vaani Kapoor’s compelling performance. However, those expecting a tightly woven, suspenseful mystery may find themselves disappointed.

Rating: 2.5/5

Mandala Murders enters the circle of fear but fails to hold its center.

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