Jugnuma Movie Review: Manoj Bajpayee Leads a Magical Tale with Mystical Charm and Minor Flaws

Introduction

After his acclaimed debut Thithi (2015), director Raam Reddy returns with his sophomore feature, Jugnuma. This Manoj Bajpayee-starrer is a visual marvel that blends magic realism, family drama, and mystery into a poetic cinematic journey. While not without flaws, Jugnuma leaves behind a dreamlike aftertaste that lingers long after the credits roll.

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐ (3/5)

Cast: Manoj Bajpayee, Deepak Dobriyal, Priyanka Bose, Tillotama Shome
Director & Writer: Raam Reddy

The Magical Premise

Set in 1989, the story revolves around Dev (Manoj Bajpayee), who lives with his wife Nandini (Priyanka Bose), their children Vanya (Hiral Sidhu) and Juju (Awan Pookot), and two dogs in a sprawling Uttarakhand estate called Teen-Pahad (Three Mountains).

Dev is no ordinary man—he spends his time crafting wings, which he uses to glide through the skies. This surreal detail sets the tone for Jugnuma, a film where reality and fantasy intertwine.

The family’s calm life takes a turn when Dev discovers a burnt tree on their estate. Soon, more fires spread mysteriously, dragging Dev, his loyal manager (Deepak Dobriyal), and estate workers into a puzzling battle against an unseen force. The suspects are plenty—angry locals, a suspicious land registrar, or perhaps even mystical elements hidden in the hills.

Themes and Storytelling Style

Jugnuma unfolds like a modern-day fairytale, even opening with the words “Ek samay ki baat hai…” (Once upon a time). The narrative leans heavily on magical realism, often prioritizing atmosphere over concrete answers.

Like Gabriel García Márquez’s One Hundred Years of Solitude, the film invites viewers to experience moments rather than solve them. Some will find this enchanting, while others may feel frustrated by unanswered questions.

The story works best when treated like a dream—beautiful, mysterious, and not fully explainable.

Visual Brilliance

Shot on 16mm film, Jugnuma has a nostalgic, grainy texture that complements its old-world charm. Cinematographer Sunil Borkar paints serene images:

• The Milky Way glittering in the night sky

• A village woman praying amid towering firs

• The family stargazing on a quiet night

These visuals make the film feel like a cozy winter evening by the bonfire—warm, tender, and slightly haunting.

Performances

• Manoj Bajpayee (Dev): Understated yet magnetic, Bajpayee doesn’t overplay his role, letting the film’s magical tone remain intact.

• Deepak Dobriyal: A delight to watch in the supporting role, his subtle actions (watering plants, grooming) speak volumes about his character.

• Priyanka Bose (Nandini): Grounded and graceful, she adds balance to the mystical narrative.

• Tillotama Shome: Brief but impactful, her perfect Kumaoni accent adds authenticity.

Strengths and Weaknesses

✅ Strengths:

• Enchanting visuals and atmosphere

• Strong performances, especially by the supporting cast

• A magical realism tone rarely explored in Indian cinema

❌ Weaknesses:

• Central mystery feels underdeveloped

• Some narrative gaps are filled with vague mystical elements

• Emotional arcs could have been stronger

Final Verdict

Jugnuma is less about logic and more about feeling. It’s a film that works like a magic trick—you can either look for wires and explanations, or simply marvel at the illusion. Despite its uneven storytelling, Raam Reddy’s direction ensures that Jugnuma remains a memorable, poetic experience.

Verdict: A visually stunning magical journey with minor turbulence—worth watching if you let yourself believe.