Munjya (film)

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Munjya
Munjya 2024.jpg
Theatrical release poster
Directed by Aditya Sarpotdar
Screenplay by Niren Bhatt
Story byYogesh Chandekar
Produced by Dinesh Vijan
Amar Kaushik
Starring
CinematographySaurabh Goswami
Edited byMonisha R. Baldawa
Music bySongs:
Sachin–Jigar
Score:
Justin Varghese
Production
company
Distributed by Pen Marudhar Entertainment
Release date
  • 7 June 2024 (2024-06-07)
Running time
121 minutes [1]
CountryIndia
LanguageHindi
Budget₹30 crore [2] [3]
Box officeest. ₹131.57 crore [4]

Munjya is a 2024 Indian Hindi-language supernatural comedy horror film directed by Aditya Sarpotdar starring Sharvari, Abhay Verma, Mona Singh and Sathyaraj. Produced by Amar Kaushik and Dinesh Vijan under Maddock Films, it is the third film in the Maddock Supernatural Universe and focuses on the legend of munjya , inspired by Indian folklore and mythology.

Contents

Munjya was theatrically released on 7 June 2024, to positive reviews from critics. [5] The film emerged as sleeper hit [6] grossing over ₹131 crore (US$16 million) worldwide against a production cost of ₹30 crore (US$3.6 million) to rank as the fifth highest-grossing Hindi film of 2024. [7]

Plot

In 1952, in a village in Konkan, a young Brahmin boy named Gotya is in love with Munni, a girl seven years older than him. When Munni's marriage is arranged with another man, Gotya unsuccessfully attempts to poison him. After being scolded by his mother, Gotya, determined to marry Munni, takes his sister Gita to a dense jungle called Chetukwadi to perform black magic under a peepal tree. In the process, he accidentally kills himself, becoming a malevolent spirit named Munjya, haunting the tree.

Several decades later, in Pune, Bittu is a timid young man working as a hairdresser at his mother Pammi's salon. He loves his grandmother dearly and is deeply attached to her. He is in love with his childhood friend Bela but hasn't confessed his feelings. Bela returns after completing her studies from the United States and her boyfriend Kuba proposes to her, leaving Bittu heartbroken. Bittu has recurring nightmares about the haunted peepal tree.

Bittu's family travels to their ancestral home in Konkan for his cousin Rukku's engagement. There, his uncle Balu Kaka reveals that Bittu's father died near the haunted tree, believed to be caused by Munjya. Ignoring warnings, Bittu visits the tree and gets possessed by Munjya. Bittu's grandmother, who is revealed to be Gotya's sister Gita is killed by Munjya. Munjya demands Bittu help him marry Munni, now Bela's grandmother.

Bittu confides in his friend Spielberg, and they learn about Munni's history from Rukku. Munjya, now interested in Bela, plans to marry and sacrifice her. Bittu and Spielberg seek help from an exorcist, Elvis, who devises a plan to transfer Munjya into a goat and kill it. However, the plan goes awry, and Bela is possessed. Munjya, now in Bela's body, tries to sacrifice her, but Bittu, guided by Gita's spirit, defeats Munjya by transferring him into the tree, which they burn.

In the end, Bittu confesses his feelings to Bela, who values their friendship. Spielberg and Bittu’s cousin Rukku start working together on video shoots. Balu Kaka, who had temporarily hosted the peepal tree's spirit, starts behaving like a tree. The parts of the burnt tree containing Munjya's spirit are transported away, hinting he may still be alive.

In a mid-credits scene, Bhaskar aka Bhediya is stranded naked in a jungle and receives clothes from Jana, including underwear from a brand named "Munni", which is observed by Munjya.

Cast

Additionally, Varun Dhawan and Abhishek Banerjee reprise their roles as Bhaskar Sharma and Janardan Sharma from the film Bhediya as cameos in a mid-credits scene.

Production

Inspiration

Talking with Mid-Day , Bhatt discussed the traditional four stages of life in Hinduism: Brahmacharya (student life), Gṛhastha (householder life), Vanaprastha (retirement), and Sannyasa (renunciation). He mentions the Upanayan ceremony known as Munjya in Marathi, which marks the beginning of the student phase, and the Sod Munjya ceremony, which marks the transition from student life to householder life. Essentially, he's explaining the significance of these ceremonies in the context of life's stages according to Hindu tradition. If a man passes away without getting married after his munja ceremony but before his Sod Munja, he transforms into a Munjya—a spirit dwelling in peepal trees or close to wells. Peepal trees emit significant amounts of carbon dioxide after nightfall, and the apprehension of encountering Munjya deters people from sitting under them after sunset. According to Bhatt, Munjya is perceived as a creature that is both monstrous and childlike due to dying at a young age. Munjya tends to trouble people to fulfill its desires, often fixating on marriage. Munjya's are not usually malevolent; rather, they are seen as immature and petty nuisances. They have a peculiar fondness for throwing stones at individuals standing beneath trees. [11] [12]

Development

Bhatt states that the tale initially entered their sphere through Yogesh Chandekar, who introduced a renowned figure from his region to Maddock Films. Bhatt and Kaushik spent three years to developing the story, conducting research by exploring numerous wadas and orchards in the Dapoli and Ganpatipule regions where Munjya's are said to have been "tied down". [11] Munjya is acclaimed as inaugural CGI film starring an animated character. [13] The film is helmed by Aditya Sarpotdar, explores the legendary creature from Indian folklore, according to a statement from the makers. [14] Sarpotdar and his team, in collaboration with DNEG, spent nearly a year to crafting the eerie and mischievous main character entirely through computer-generated imagery. Sarpotdar explained in an interview with PTI, "Half of the film's budget went into VFX, a significant allocation underscoring its importance. We meticulously developed a CGI creature through extensive research and development to ensure accuracy". [15] The teaser was released on 21 May 2024 [16] and the trailer was released on 24 May 2024. [17]

Casting

Abhay Verma has been selected to star alongside Sharvari in the film. Describing her role, Sharvari mentioned, "I play a contemporary woman determined to pursue her dreams above all else, a sentiment many can identify with in today's world. Her dating experiences add to the relatability of the character, resonating with numerous women." [18] [19] The film features Mona Singh, Sathyaraj in other pivotal roles supported by Suhas Joshi. Singh opened her role in the film during an interview with ANI News, she cast in the role of Pammi, the mother of Bittu, played by Abhay. Pammi is depicted as strict and overly protective of her son, leading to a journey marked by various challenges and surprises. [20] The Marathi actress Rasika Vengurlekar was seen in the teaser is playing a supporting role in the film. [9] Radhika Vidyasagar made her film debut, playing the role of housewife in Konkan. [10]

Filming

The film was shot in Kudal and Guhagar in the Konkan region of Maharashtra. [18] [21]

Release

The film was released on 7 June 2024 in Cinemas. [5]

Soundtrack

Munjya
Soundtrack album by
Sachin–Jigar
Released17 June 2024 [22]
Recorded2023
Genre Feature film soundtrack
Length11:43
LanguageHindi
Label Zee Music Company
Sachin–Jigar chronology
Murder Mubarak
(2023)		Munjya
(2024)		 Stree 2
(2024)
Official audio
Munjya - Full Album on YouTube

Sachin–Jigar composed the music and score for the film, while one song is co-composed by Skeletron. [23] Lyrics are written by Amitabh Bhattacharya.

No.TitleSinger(s)Length
1."Taras" Jasmine Sandlas, Sumonto Mukherjee, Sachin-Jigar 3:08
2."Tainu Khabar Nahi" Arijit Singh, Sachin-Jigar3:08
3."Hai Jamalo" (co-composed by Skeletron) Nakash Aziz, Amitabh Bhattacharya, Jigar Saraiya2:29
4."Lori"Hansika Pareek, Sachin-Jigar2:58
Total length:11:43

Reception

On the review aggregator website Rotten Tomatoes , 56% of 9 critics' reviews are positive, with an average rating of 5.3/10. [24]

Bhawna Arya of Times Now rated the film 3.5 stars out of 5 and wrote "In conclusion, Munjya appears to be an entertaining film that successfully combines elements of comedy and horror. While it may not satisfy hardcore horror fans, it promises to be a fun and thrilling ride for those who enjoy a good laugh with their scares." [25] Ganesh Aaglave of Firstpost rated the film 3.5 stars out of 5 and wrote "Film aces in the technical departments, especially in VFX, camera and SFX with crisp editing. Talking about the performances, everyone in the cast has done a splendid job but it’s a VFX character of Munjya, who has stolen the show. Munjya is a theatrical experience and deserves a watch for its novelty and authenticity." [26]

A critic for Bollywood Hungama rated the film 3 stars out of 5 and wrote "Munjya is an entertaining horror-comedy with a gripping second half. At the box office, the film might start slow but it has the potential to pick up due to the genre, word of mouth and connection with the Maddock Cinematic Universe." [27] Dhaval Roy of The Times Of India rated the film 3 stars out of 5 and wrote "The movie leaves some questions unanswered, and certain elements fail to add up. Nevertheless, the atmospheric setting, hilarious moments, and engaging performances make it an entertaining watch, especially for viewers seeking a horror- comedy experience with a youthful energy." [28]

Rishil Jogani of Pinkvilla rated the film 2.5 stars out of 5 and wrote "Munjya has redeeming qualities but the irritating monster, formulaic tropes and the outrageous climax make it the horror show that it doesn't intend to be." [29] Saibal Chatterjee of NDTV rated the film 1.5 stars out of 5 and wrote "Munjya is the sort of film that you want off your back as desperately as Bittu wants Munjya off his! It outlives its welcome well before it is into its second half. It is easy to see that a great deal of effort has gone into its making. What it yields is hardly commensurate." [30]

Box office

As of July 18, 2024 the film has grossed ₹127.39 crore in India and ₹4.18 crore internationally, for a total worldwide gross of ₹131.57 crore. [4]

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References

  1. ↑ "Munjya (12A)". British Board of Film Classification . 5 June 2024. Retrieved 7 June 2024.
  2. ↑ "Munjya rocked box office, close to recovering budget". India Herald . Retrieved 16 June 2024.
  3. ↑ "Munjya box office collection: Sharvari Wagh and Abhay Verma starrer earns 20 crore, breaks 'Mr and Mrs Mahi' and 'Maidaan' record". moneycontrol.com. Retrieved 16 June 2024.
  4. 1 2 "Munjya Box Office". Bollywood Hungama . Retrieved 25 June 2024.
  5. 1 2 "Maddock Films' 'Munjya' gets a release date". The Hindu. 21 May 2024. ISSN   0971-751X . Retrieved 24 May 2024.
  6. ↑ "Munjya Emerges As Hit!". Rediff.com. 10 June 2024. Retrieved 10 June 2024.
  7. ↑ "Bollywood Top Grossers Worldwide 2024". Bollywood Hungama. Retrieved 25 June 2024.
  8. ↑ "'मुंज्या'मधील मराठमोळ्या बालकलाकाराला ओळखलंत का?, सध्या तो करतोय या मालिकेत काम". Lokmat (in Marathi). 10 June 2024. Retrieved 11 June 2024.
  9. 1 2 "'महाराष्ट्राची हास्यजत्रा' फेम अभिनेत्रीचं नशीब उजळलं! थेट बॉलिवूड सिनेमात वर्णी, ट्रेलरमध्ये दिसली झलक". Lokmat (in Marathi). 24 May 2024. Retrieved 25 May 2024.
  10. 1 2 "Exclusive - Udne Ki Asha fame Radhika Vidyasagar opens up about Hindi film debut, Munjya with Mona Singh and Abhay Verma". The Times of India. 9 June 2024. ISSN   0971-8257 . Retrieved 22 June 2024.
  11. 1 2 "Kokanat-la Munjya". Mid-day. 26 May 2024. Retrieved 30 May 2024.
  12. ↑ "'Munjya': Decoding the folklore this horror-comedy is based on and meeting India's first CGI actor". Firstpost. 28 May 2024. Retrieved 30 May 2024.
  13. ↑ "Teaser of Hindi horror film 'Munjya' starring Sharvari features CGI actor". The Times of India. 21 May 2024. ISSN   0971-8257 . Retrieved 24 May 2024.
  14. ↑ "Maddock Films' Unveils 'Munjya', Movie To Release On June 7". Outlook India. 21 May 2024. Retrieved 24 May 2024.
  15. ↑ "50 per cent of 'Munjya' budget spent on VFX: director Aditya Sarpotdar". Hindustan Times . 5 June 2024. Retrieved 8 June 2024.
  16. ↑ "'Munjya' teaser: India's first CGI actor can't get over 'Munni Badnam Hui' - CNBC TV18". CNBCTV18. 21 May 2024. Retrieved 24 May 2024.
  17. ↑ "Munjya Trailer OUT: Sharvari Wagh, Abhay Verma and Mona Singh's spooky comedy looks promising; don't miss out SRK's KKKkiran twist". PINKVILLA. 24 May 2024. Retrieved 24 May 2024.
  18. 1 2 "Sharvari opens up about mouthwatering Konkan cuisine experience on 'Munjya' set". The Times of India. 2 June 2024. ISSN   0971-8257 . Retrieved 2 June 2024.
  19. ↑ "Actor Abhay Verma on working in a unique project like Munjya, says 'I'm extremely elated'". WION. 30 May 2024. Retrieved 30 May 2024.
  20. ↑ "Mona Singh opens up about her spooky Pune incident". ANI News. Retrieved 13 June 2024.
  21. ↑ "'मुंज्या'मध्ये दिसलेलं महाराष्ट्रातील सुंदर गाव; मान्सून ट्रिपसाठी सर्वोत्तम पर्याय". TV9 Marathi (in Marathi). 27 June 2024. Retrieved 28 June 2024.
  22. ↑ "Munjya – Original Motion Picture Soundtrack". JioSaavn . 17 June 2024. Retrieved 17 June 2024.
  23. ↑ "Sachin-Jigar to score music for the upcoming horror-comedy Munjya after Stree and Bhediya". Bollywood Hungama. 22 May 2024. Retrieved 24 May 2024.
  24. ↑ "Munjya". Rotten Tomatoes . Fandango Media . Retrieved 9 June 2024.
  25. ↑ Arya, Bhawna (7 June 2024). "Munjya Movie Review: Sharvari Wagh, Mona Singh Starrer Is A Unique Blend Of Comedy And Horror". Times Now.Star full.svgStar full.svgStar full.svgStar half.svgStar empty.svg
  26. ↑ "Munjya movie review: A spooky yet entertaining folklore". Firstpost. 7 June 2024.Star full.svgStar full.svgStar full.svgStar half.svgStar empty.svg
  27. ↑ Bollywood Hungama News Network (7 June 2024). "Munjya Movie Review". Bollywood Hungama .Star full.svgStar full.svgStar full.svgStar empty.svgStar empty.svg
  28. ↑ Dhaval Roy (7 June 2024). "Munjya Movie Review: Offers Entertaining Escapades Despite An Uneven Tone". The Times of India .Star full.svgStar full.svgStar full.svgStar empty.svgStar empty.svg
  29. ↑ Jogani, Rishil (7 June 2024). "Munjya Review: Sharvari Wagh and Abhay Verma's movie is quite literally a horror show, after a promising start". Pinkvilla . Retrieved 9 June 2024.Star full.svgStar full.svgStar half.svgStar empty.svgStar empty.svg
  30. ↑ "Munjya Review: Rarely Spooky Enough To Deliver Jump Scares". NDTV . 7 June 2024.Star full.svgStar half.svgStar empty.svgStar empty.svgStar empty.svg
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