A fresh take on witch mythology that loses its nerve by the second half.
Verdict tier Mixed, lukewarm or divided, on a scale of Unfavorable, Mixed, Recommended, Exceptional.
Not streaming in India
Critic consensus
Critical reception for Ek Thi Daayan is mixed-to-moderate, with most reviewers acknowledging its originality and ambition in reimagining the witch mythology within a relatable, contemporary setting. The film's idiosyncratic and novel approach to a familiar genre was the most consistently praised quality across reviews. However, a clear majority of critics found the second half and the ending to be significant weaknesses, with the film widely seen as failing to deliver on its early promise.
Positive = 6.5/10 and up · negative = below 5/10
AI-generated summary of 8 critic reviews · may contain errors
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Top critics first, then by score · not-rated last · updated
Top critic
Film review ·
Ek Thi Daayan starts out as a well-acted, well-produced supernatural thriller, which could , and should, have climaxed with a knock-out punch. To which end, somebody should have walked across the wrap with a deft pair of webbed feet.
Top critic
Film review ·
Ek Thi Daayan, therefore, isn't the scariest of horror films. It is, though, smartly crafted, highly original in its approach and a strikingly ambitious effort for the genre. The end is a let-down, but the film remains a fine directorial debut for Iyer. As Bobo tells Misha while giving her a glimpse into subterranean hell, 'don't be scared, look.' "Daro nahin, dekho."
Top critic
Film review ·
Ek Thi Daayan had the potential to be an A-grade horror film but it's an opportunity lost. However, I would love to see Diana get her own film and I'm very curious about what Kannan will do next.
Top critic
Film review ·
The riveting parts of Ek This Daayan are far outnumbered by the limp moments. Yet it is worth a watch owing to the idiosyncratic treatment of a done-to-death genre.
Top critic
Film review ·
It nicely builds up intrigue, but leaves you wanting more in the end nnn
Film review ·
On the whole, EK THI DAAYAN is an imaginative and appealing supernatural thriller. The film is placed in a relatable world, with myths about witches expertly intertwined in its absorbing screenplay, something which a spectator can effortlessly identify with. Exceptionally novel and attention-grabbing, it's a first of its kind. Watch it for the sheer novelty it puts on display in its genre!
Film review ·
You may not like the film if transcendental stuff doesn't move you.
Film review ·
Ek Thi Daayan is an enriching idea of a supernatural thriller that blends the fear of paranormal with ethnic stories of Daayans, grandmothers had narrated to us as kids. The ambience it creates eventually dooms for its wavering second half and shakily written screenplay. Beginning a fresh trend in horror films, it disappoints solely for its inability to deliver innovation as promised. It is indeed watchable, but only for its first part. However, do not go with heightened expectations presuming a classic, since the second half might dampen your spirits!
From our readers
4 ratings · user score 6.0
Now this one tries hard to do something good to horror genre in bollywood movies. In fact, it hits the bulls eye in first half on the strength of Konkana Sen Sharma's brilliant acting skills, two charming kids, innovative screenplay and dialogues filled with humour. But second half goes downward spiral by becoming predictable and climax is a complete downer. Music is very good. Scares are damn good and really scary. A better uncluterred climax could have saved the magic done by first half. Emraan Hashmi and Huma Quershi were average. Kalki made good use of her small role. The movie deserves a watch to be an A Grade Bollywood Horror.
Directed by kannan Iyer , Ek thi Daayan gives a very fresh perspective to horror films.The creepy atmosphere in first half is good and whenever konkona(daayan) is on screen you are gonna scare off then the second half comes,it has ups and downs but then a typical bollywood climax ruin the show.But nice try for a debut director. Interesting to see whats he gonna do next.
'Ek Thi Daayan' is a rich, satisfying experience. The horrors come naturally, but it doesn't drag on emotions. The film comes with thrilling ideas and a narrative that takes twists and turns- but it is certainly NOT smart enough to not lose its fizz as a smart horror flick. It provides actual fun, something that was absent from cinemas in the recent times. The performances do elevate the experience. While Irrfan Khan shines in the role of a magician- something that was out of his box from a long time. Huma Qureshi and Kalki Koechlin are consuming as well- but it is truly Konkona Sensharma in her short role as this 'Daayan' who keeps you hooked to the climax- the part most imporant to impart in an amazing horror. I am going with 3 stars out of 5 for 'Ek Thi Daayan'. Watch it because of its ideas and story, which are complimented by a dazzling cinematography that satisfyingly contrasts.
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