Murderbaad, helmed by 25-year-old writer-director Arnab Chatterjee, is a sleek blend of romance and suspense that unfolds in the haunting corridors of a Rajasthani palace. Officially releasing on 18 July 2025, this film promises to be one of Bollywood’s most intriguing summer thrillers. Here’s a comprehensive Murderbaad Movie Review analyzing its narrative, performances, direction, and overall impact.
What is Murderbaad About? – Murderbaad Movie Review
Murderbaad is set in Rajasthan’s vibrant yet eerie city, Jaipur. The story begins with a picturesque tour organized by palace proprietor Gupta Ji, featuring a young tour guide Jayesh (Nakul Roshan Sahdev), his colleague Maqsood (Sharib Hashmi), and guests Isabella (Kanikka Kapur) and Shaili (Saloni Batra). What seems like a leisurely tour quickly turns sinister when Shaili mysteriously disappears—prompting a chilling investigation into buried truths and hidden identities.
Strong Cast Elevates the Thriller – Murderbaad Movie Review
Nakul Roshan Sahdev and Kanikka Kapur Lead
Nakul Roshan Sahdev’s portrayal of the young, earnest guide Jayesh is layered with vulnerability and intrigue. His chemistry with Kanikka Kapur as Isabella provides emotional depth amid growing suspicion.
Ensemble Support by Veterans
The supporting cast enhances the film’s credibility—with Sharib Hashmi, Manish Chaudhari, Amole Gupte, Aanjjan Srivastav, and Vibha Chhibber rounding out the ensemble. Hashmi’s Maqsood, the cabbie-turned-sidekick, is both relatable and pivotal to the narrative’s twists.
Visual Style & Atmosphere – Murderbaad Movie Review
Cinematography by Binod Pradhan
The film’s visuals are a standout: cinematographer Binod Pradhan (famed for Devdas, Rang De Basanti, Bhaag Milkha Bhaag) uses warm hues and shadows to underscore tension and mystery within the palace’s halls.
Editing & Sound Design
Editor Dev Rao Jadhav ensures the pacing remains taut, with every cut building suspense. Complementing the visuals is Rickie’s atmospheric score—backed by vocals from Shaan, Nakash Aziz, and Amit Kumar—that amplifies the film’s haunting vibe.
Direction & Narrative Structure – Murderbaad Movie Review
Arnab Chatterjee’s Vision
At just 25, Arnab Chatterjee brings an ambitious, multidimensional vision to Murderbaad. Inspired by “romance and thrill…stories people bury to protect their identity,” he embraces genre fusion and deep character motivations.
Genre-Bending Ensemble
The narrative weaves romance into crime—what begins as flirtation between Jayesh and Isabella transitions into betrayal, disappearance, and psychological thrill. It’s a refreshing take on the conventional whodunit.
What Works in Murderbaad – Murderbaad Movie Review
- Atmospheric World-Building – The fusion of palace grandeur, eerie ambiance, and suspenseful aesthetics makes the setting feel alive and unsettling.
- Performances & Chemistry – Central chemistry between Nakul and Kanikka lends credibility to the emerging romance—and intensifies emotional stakes.
- Technical Craftsmanship – Strong cinematography, purposeful editing, and evocative score combine to enhance the film’s tense mood.
- Fresh Narrative Approach – A debut film that balances human relationships with a mystery’s deceit offers something different in Bollywood’s thriller genre.
What Could Be Better – Murderbaad Movie Review
- Midpoint Drag – Certain story beats, especially during investigation, may feel slow to viewers expecting a nonstop thriller.
- Depth of Supporting Characters – Though performance-driven, some secondary characters could have benefited from deeper backstories to heighten their narrative weight.
- Mystery Unravels Predictably – Genre-savvy audiences might anticipate some twists, though the film still retains solid suspense overall.
Final Verdict – Murderbaad Movie Review
Murderbaad is a strong cinematic debut that nudges Bollywood’s thriller genre forward. With smart execution, involving lead actors, and polished technical elements, it serves as both a psychological romance and a captivating mystery. The film’s gradual pacing may challenge some viewers, but those who appreciate atmospheric storytelling and slow-burn suspense will find a rich experience.
Should You Watch Murderbaad?
- Yes, if you enjoy stylized whodunits wrapped in romance, set in atmospheric locations.
- Maybe skip, if you prefer high-octane thrillers with non-stop action or strong emotional arcs in every character.
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