Imagine if your whole life was played out on a daily TV soap? Everyday you would see an intricate detailed, repetition of what is going to happen next in your life or has already happened. A clear copy of the same people around you, yet in appearances of actors? Crazy right?
Vikram Kumar’s horror/mystery film 13B truly makes you question the suspense and gets you thinking about certain, strange events. Starring Madhavan as Manohar or as they call him ‘Manu’ his life seems all too perfect, with a caring wife, loving family and a secure job. Though I spoke too soon. Strange events start happening to Manu, the lift not working, his photograph looking messed up and the house generally falling apart. But most of all a new TV soap which integrates a fairly different yet very familiar tale. A story of a family living in a new home, facing a list of events. Interestingly, this soap literally is a replica of Manu’s family, thus taking control of their lives. Unfolding dark secrets, Manu explores the past and digs deep to find out the truth. Though will he be able to save his family? Or will the soap continue its series?
A unique story told through a simple yet effective way. The strange effects gradually unfold, slowly releasing clues for the audience. But at the same time, leaving them filled with enigmas. The whole concept of a TV soap re-telling a real life story is enthralling and somewhat intriguing, making you think what if this happened to you? Everything is connected, the timing precise, the hints intact, along with mysterious clues where the Dog cautiously barks symbolizing a sense of ghosts and spirits.
Having said that, the horror genre it is labeled as is slightly undermined. I mean it wasn’t as scary as it implies to be. A few jumps here and there but nothing exceptionally ‘compelling’, though the second half was unexpectedly thriving. With that in mind, the pacing of the story was delayed. The beginning of the film definitely could have increased its pace, resulting in a shorter duration.
However, halfway through the film, the climax was finally approached. Manu researching in the past, nosing his way through old newspapers and photographs gave us a bigger picture of the past story. The family shown in the TV soap was further analyzed, where their lives were told through a series of flashbacks. New faces were found; where a strange man called ‘Ashok’ not just answered a few questions, but led to complicated mysteries.
Overall, 13b is a great Bollywood Thriller. A enriching plot, definitely building up in the second part of the film. The climax is raised and puts you on the edge of your seats. You begin to question the murders, story and who the villain could be. A shocker suspense, great cast (Madhavan truly immersed in his role) and on the whole a powerful mystery.
For a thriller, especially being Bollywood, it deserves huge credit! So I rate it 8.5 out of 10.
Written by: Meera Darji
Meera's Blog 
yr i jst love dis movie….!!
i mean mujhe is movie ki story bhut amazng lgi….. mujhe br br ye movie dekhna bhut psnd hai.
13B, is d best film, i hav watch ever.