Introduction
If you’re interested in Thamma, let’s discuss this most recent horror-romantic film, which stars Ayushmann Khurrana and Rashmika Mandanna. It draws inspiration from vampire mythology, or at least folklore related to vampires, and situates itself inside Maddock Films’ growing horror-comedy world. The film’s premise promises an emotional love story entwined with the thrill of unearthly bloodlust. However, based on the critical analysis thus far, it appears that while the excitement is present, the emotional core is not as strong.
Taking from my personal experience as well as the most recent evaluations, I will lead you through the film’s main elements in this guide, including the storyline, performances, production values, thematic depth, and the conclusion. My goal is to assist you in determining whether this Thamma is worth seeing in person or streaming, particularly if you enjoy horror comedy, vampire movies, or folklore.
1. Story & Theme
Instead of the Western vampire cliché, Thamma begins with Alok (Ayushmann Khurrana), who unintentionally finds himself entangled in a world of vampire-like creatures known as “betaals” (from Indian folklore).
What works: There is a new flavor to the mythology. It’s a good idea to draw inspiration from Indian myth rather than generic vampires. According to the backstory, betaals used to protect humans and adhere to stringent rules (no drinking blood or falling in love with humans), but then someone broke the rules and caused chaos.
What goes wrong: Reviewers say that the framework is strong, but the movie takes too long to set up, the first half is slow, and the emotional stakes don’t always work. Pacing problems and tone inconsistencies ruin the promise of “a bloody love story.”
2. Character Dynamics & Performances
Ayushmann Khurrana turns up with his trademark versatility: starting as a journalist-turned-supernatural being, he balances comic timing with a dark turn. Reviews note he “fits effortlessly into the vampire character,” though the material around him isn’t always supportive. Rashmika Mandanna as Tadaka is praised for bringing in charm, strength, and screen presence—some say she “steals the spotlight.”
Nawazuddin Siddiqui in the villain role has potential—but according to many, his character is underutilised and lacks menace compared with what was promised.
The supporting cast (Paresh Rawal, Faisal Malik cameo, etc.) adds colour and comic relief, though again the blend of horror/romance/comedy sometimes feels uneven.
Summary: The acting is largely a high point. The stars deliver. It’s the writing and the emotional clarity that wobble, so even solid performances struggle to fully elevate the film.
Also read: Thama Movie: Release Date, Cast, Songs & Review
3. Technical Design, Direction, and Visuals
Reviewers remark that director Aditya Sarpotdar’s attempt at a rich visual world, which includes sleek visual effects, creepy tunnels, lush forests, and luxurious vampire-nightclub scenes, looks excellent and frequently astounding. Highlights of Saurabh Goswami’s filmmaking include his ability to capture untamed landscapes, creepy gothic interiors, and a dark, ghostly tone.
Music by Sachin‑Jigar is also noted for having strong moments: songs like Tum Mere Na Huye and Dilbar Ki Aankhon Ka were released ahead and created buzz.
However, while the craft is commendable, some critics say the editing is uneven and the runtime (around 149 minutes) leads to stretches where the momentum flags.
4. Universe Building and Thematic Structure
One of the most interesting and ambitious parts is how Thamma places itself in Maddock’s “Horror-Comedy Universe,” which includes movies like Munjya, Bhediya, and Stree.
The notion of weaving folklore (betaals) and linking across films can be exciting for viewers of cinematic worlds.
However, several assessments claim that Thamma lacks a strong social spine or fundamental message, in contrast to earlier entries (Bhediya: environment; Street: patriarchy), which had a more visible thematic weight. Although the lore is intriguing in this instance, the movie seems to focus more on entertainment than insightful review.
Therefore, this might not be the horror-romance you’re searching for if you also want a strong social statement. It could satisfy your need for ethereal entertainment and universe-building Easter eggs.
5. Audience Reaction & Box Office Snapshot
From early data: Thamma opened in India on 21 October 2025 (Diwali release). The film had strong opening day collections with estimates around ₹18-20 crore on day one. Audience reactions are mixed: some praising the visuals, the performances (especially Rashmika), and the mythology; others calling it slow, inconsistent, and less scary than expected.
Important note: The marketing heavily pushed the “vampire” angle—but the lead actor clarifies that the film is not about Western-style vampires but about “betaals” rooted in Indian folklore. As an experienced guide, I’d say marketing may have mismatched some audience expectations.
6. Final Verdict & Who Should Watch It
Verdict: Thamma is a well-intentioned, visually stylish supernatural romance that has strong performances and interesting mythology. However, it doesn’t quite achieve the emotional resonance or perfect pacing that it aspires to—making it a vampire film without a soul, as some reviewers put it.
Should you watch it?
Yes, if you enjoy big-screen horror-comedies, Indian-folklore-inflected supernatural stories, strong visuals, and stars like Ayushmann and Rashmika.
Maybe if you need a tight script, deep emotional impact, or the scares to land hard. The film delivers in many areas, but the cohesion and depth are uneven.
Consider waiting if you’re a fan of vampire lore expecting a Western-style vampire saga with a heavy emotional core and big scares—this isn’t that kind of film.
7. Tips for Viewing & What to Look For
Watch in a theatre (if possible)—the VFX and visuals are built for large screens.
Pay attention to the myth of the betaals—the rules they live by (no human blood, no love with humans) add flavour to the story.
Stay after the credits—being part of a universe, there may be post-credit teasers or cameos combining with other films.
Go with expectations set: fun, style, supernatural romance—but don’t expect masterpiece-level depth or perfect horror.
For a plant-based viewpoint: if you prefer horror with a message (say about society), be ready for less in this film.
Conclusion
Thamma is a visually ambitious entry in the horror-comedy space that blends folklore, romance, and supernatural elements—but despite its style and mood, it ultimately feels like a vampire film without the soul.