One who dies in Panchak does not rest in peace, the main focus of A Wedding Story a horror thriller drama that hits theatres today is on this theme. Helmed by director Abhinav Pareek the movie features Vaibhav Tatwawadi and Mukti Mohan in prominent roles.
The story begins with a funeral scene in which Vaibhav plays Vikram Nain, along with his family, mourning the death of one of their members. The death occurs during Panchak, a time believed inauspicious in Indian customs. Their family priest cautions them about a forthcoming curse that awaits unless certain rituals are conducted to ward off peril. However, Vikram’s stubborn cousin Tarun disagrees with this belief and thinks it is an insult to his father's memory. This choice sets in motion a chilling curse that transforms the family's wedding festivities into a horrific ordeal. The curse specifically targets Vikram and Preeti, played by Mukti Mohan causing their wedding to descend, into chaos and terror as it ruthlessly torments everyone involved.
The Wedding Story draws inspiration from an Indian tradition and incorporates elements from the Garur Puran. Set against the picturesque landscape of Uttarakhand the film's idea holds promise but falls short of delivering true horror. The plot feels lacking and the performance fails to create the horror and thrills typically associated with the genre. Inadequate lighting detracts from the ambiance and although the background music is not bad it doesn't significantly enhance the scenes either.
The cast members, including Akshay Anand, Monica Chaudhary, Lakshvir Singh Saran, and Piloo Vidyarthi, don't live up to the hype with their performances. While Vaibhav Tatwawadi and Mukti Mohan show potential they struggle to fully convey the film's emotional intensity. The movie ends with a suggestion of a sequel but the conclusion feels hurried and lacks justification, leaving viewers feeling unsatisfied.
A Wedding Story, produced by Shubho Shekhar Bhattacharjee and Vinay Reddy set out to deliver a blend of cultural beliefs and horror. Nevertheless, despite its best efforts, the movie falls short and has the potential to be far more powerful.
