India, Oct. 21 -- At a time when the 'universe' craze in Indian cinema is still finding its feet (and another big universe has already stumbled), the Maddock Horror Comedy Universe scores.

Its connections aren't stitched together for show, nor do flashbacks bail it out for convenience. Every link feels earned, every crossover organic, and Thamma, directed by Aditya Sarpotdar, is proof that this universe actually has a plan.

I have to admit: the trailer of Thamma and its songs had left me asking for more. But the film itself more than makes up for everything. The story revolves around Aalok (Ayushmann Khurrana) a news anchor, who is rescued from a bear in the wild by Tadka (Rashmika Mandanna), a betaal. Now, these aren't like the Twiligh...