Bhooth Bangla First Review: Akshay Kumar–Priyadarshan’s Magic Falters Despite Their Superhit Jodi, Horror Comedy Divides Audience

The long-awaited reunion between Akshay Kumar and director Priyadarshan has finally hit the screen with ‘Bhooth Bangla’. After a 16-year gap since ‘Khatta Meetha’, expectations were sky-high for this duo to recapture the lightning in a bottle that gave us classics like ‘Hera Pheri’ and ‘Bhool Bhulaiyaa’.

With advance bookings now open and the first screenings concluded, the verdict is in, and it has certainly sparked a debate. While many celebrate a return to form for the ‘Khiladi,’ others feel the old magic hasn't quite translated to the modern era.

Bhooth Bangla Early Reviews

The initial feedback suggests a film of two halves, blending the legend of Vadhusur with a haunted bungalow setting. For most critics, the nostalgia factor is a major draw, but the lengthy 164-minute runtime has raised some eyebrows.

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Ramesh Bala (@rameshlaus) gave the film 4 stars, describing it as a layered supernatural story that successfully mixes fear with humour. He noted, "Akshay Kumar delivers one of his career-best performances... effortlessly switching between sharp comic timing and intense moments." He also praised the ‘goosebumps’ at the interval and the impeccable chemistry between supporting leads Paresh Rawal and Rajpal Yadav.

#BhoothBangla : ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

It unfolds as a layered supernatural tale rooted in the eerie legend of Vadhusur and a village long possessed by his dark presence, including the haunted bungalow itself. Beneath the horror lies an intriguing backstory that slowly reveals itself, adding… pic.twitter.com/LcqcfRGM62

— Ramesh Bala (@rameshlaus) April 15, 2026

Upala KBR, “Akshay Kumar is back in the genre he is superb at! He and Ekta Kapoor's Bhooth Bangla bring back the fever of horror comedy in real sense! Priyadarshan has used all the actors really very well and the situational comedy in the film is over the top, non-stop entertainment from the beginning to the end. Bhooth Bangla is an absolute family entertainer, a completely paisa wasool film which must be watched with family & friends. With comedy, suspense, horror with some superb, high octane action sequences, Bhooth Bangla is a delightful MUST WATCH in today's times! Rating : 3.5 stars.”

Akshay Kumar is back in the genre he is superb at!
He and Ekta Kapoor's Bhooth Bangla bring back the fever of horror comedy in real sense! Priyadarshan has used all the actors really very well and the situational comedy in the film is over the top, non-stop entertainment from… pic.twitter.com/n7l9JU5E7j

— Upala KBR ❤ (@upalakbr999) April 15, 2026

Samina Shaikh, “Watched #BhoothBangla last night, and must admit - Priyadarshan has put his soul to this one: it not only captured comedy & confusion but also the ghostly world well, be it black magic or demons leading the pack, a good research makes the work easy! @akshaykumar has experiment with his role & that’s an interesting element to notice about him as an actor, Tabu’s classical dance had my heart, while Late Asrani Ji, @SirPareshRawal Sir, @rajpalofficial Sir have once again created magic with their comic-timing, Mithila Palkar is cute as Akki’s sister while @iWamiqaGabbi’s character had innocence at some point, and made a decent chemistry with Akshay Kumar. First half makes you laugh, second half makes you stay glued to the screen to witness the mysteries unfolding! Jisshu, Manoj Joshi & others have been good with their supporting roles. Good that @EktaaRKapoor chose to give director @priyadarshandir the creative freedom to direct the story his way!”

Watched #BhoothBangla last night, and must admit - Priyadarshan has put his soul to this one: it not only captured comedy & confusion but also the ghostly world well, be it black magic or demons leading the pack, a good research makes the work easy! @akshaykumar has experiment… pic.twitter.com/GurIVRitvo

— Samina Shaikh 🇮🇳 (@saminaUFshaikh) April 15, 2026

Subhashk Jha, “Just finished watching #BhoothBangla...huge fun,couldnt stop chuckling at #AkshayKumar's antics.This is Priyadarshan doing the hera pheri only he knows how to do best.”

Just finished watching #BhoothBangla...huge fun,couldnt stop chuckling at #AkshayKumar's antics.This is Priyadarshan doing the hera pheri only he knows how to do best

— Subhashk Jha (@SubhashK_Jha) April 15, 2026

Umair Sandhu, “First Review #BhoothBangla : On the whole, this movie is a major letdown from the accomplished director. It's not a full-blown comedy. It's not a full-scale satire either. Hugely disappointing! #AkshayKumar is Cringe ! #Tabu did this movie only for money. Below Average.”

First Review #BhoothBangla : On the whole, this movie is a major letdown from the accomplished director. It's not a full-blown comedy. It's not a full-scale satire either. Hugely disappointing! #AkshayKumar is Cringe ! #Tabu did this movie only for money. Below Average.

⭐️⭐️

— Umair Sandhu (@UmairSandu) April 12, 2026

Ravi Chaudhary, “#BhoothBangla - Just watched and honestly, it’s a complete entertainer /5 The story feels fresh and unique, especially the way it blends comedy with psychological horror. The first half is packed with hilarious moments, thanks to brilliant comic timing. Post-interval, the film takes a sharp turn with suspense and unexpected twists that keep you hooked till the climax. The second half really elevates the excitement level. delivers a powerful and impactful performance, while and add depth and variety with their शानदार performances. The film perfectly balances comedy, suspense, and a touch of horror. The direction by is top-notch, with strong background music that enhances the overall experience. No doubt a super entertaining film that’s worth your time. If you haven’t watched it yet, go for it #AkshayKumar #BhootBangla.”

#BhoothBangla - Just watched and honestly, it’s a complete entertainer🔥
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ /5

The story feels fresh and unique, especially the way it blends comedy with psychological horror. The first half is packed with hilarious moments, thanks to brilliant comic timing.… pic.twitter.com/XjSjRyzWVr

— Ravi Chaudhary (@BURN4DESIRE1) April 16, 2026

Bhooth Bangla Censor Certificate and Runtime Details

For those planning a trip to the cinema, the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) has granted the movie a U/A 16+ certificate. This suggests that while it’s a family-friendly genre, parental guidance is advised for younger viewers due to the horror themes.

 

 

 

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The film is a significant commitment for the audience, with a total runtime of 164 minutes and 52 seconds (roughly 2 hours and 45 minutes). Whether this length helps build the mystery or drags the pace remains the biggest point of contention among fans.

ALSO READ- Bhooth Bangla Advance Booking: Akshay Kumar–Priyadarshan’s Horror Film Collects ₹14 Lakh, Sells 8K Tickets

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