Directed by Avinash N, Hagga introduces an intriguing premise to Kannada cinema, merging folklore, black magic, and supernatural horror. Set in a remote village, the film explores the mysterious deaths of elderly women coinciding with the birth of a girl child. Despite its captivating concept, Hagga struggles to maintain a coherent narrative, often wavering between ambition and execution.
One of the film’s notable strengths is its performances, especially by Anu Prabhakar and Bhavani Prakash. Prabhakar excels as Savitri, a character burdened by a tragic past, infusing the story with emotional depth. Bhavani Prakash, portraying Tri Chandeshwari, Savitri’s vengeful rival, delivers an equally compelling performance. The tension between these two characters, rooted in a decades-old feud, generates some of the film’s most gripping moments.
Supporting actors like Harshika Poonacha, who plays a journalist, and C Venu as Ramanna contribute to the plot’s intrigue, although their characters could benefit from further development. Nonetheless, their performances help elevate the film, even when the storyline falters.
Visually, Hagga impresses, particularly in its supernatural sequences. The commendable use of VFX creates a haunting atmosphere that enhances the horror elements. The dark, ominous village setting and the supernatural occurrences effectively immerse viewers in the film’s mysterious world.
However, Hagga suffers from pacing issues and a lack of narrative structure. The first half drags, filled with clichés, and takes too long to build suspense. By the time the central conflict between Savitri and Tri Chandeshwari emerges in the second half, much of the tension has dissipated. The plot leans on familiar supernatural tropes, and while the twists are intriguing, they lack the depth needed to leave a lasting impression.
Although Hagga touches on themes of gender oppression and revenge, these concepts are not explored with the nuance they deserve. The film’s uneven pacing and reliance on predictable plot devices diminish its emotional impact, leaving audiences feeling disconnected from the narrative.
Despite its shortcomings, Hagga presents moments of genuine tension and visual allure, particularly for fans of supernatural thrillers. The combination of supernatural elements and strong performances makes the film engaging in parts, yet its inconsistent storytelling hinders it from delivering a truly gripping horror experience.
Hagga offers glimpses of brilliance, especially in its performances and visual effects. However, its slow pacing, predictable twists, and uneven narrative ultimately detract from its potential. With tighter pacing and more focused writing, Hagga could have emerged as a standout in the genre; as it stands, it lingers between ambition and execution.
