Andhar Maya, a Marathi series on Zee5, attempts to create an atmosphere of dread across its seven episodes. While the show initially hints at an ominous and eerie narrative, it ultimately fails to deliver a compelling climax. The story revolves around a family of property seekers who descend upon a Konkan village after the patriarch’s death.
The series relies on familiar horror tropes, such as the overused ‘someone-is-watching’ camera angle, which is frequently employed when genuine suspense is lacking. Despite the presence of seasoned actor Kishore Kadam, who carries much of the show, the series doesn’t fully capitalize on its potential. Kadam’s character often resorts to excessive closeups, expressing an unnecessary grotesqueness, especially in the final episode where a pregnant woman is subjected to scares that feel more underwhelming than terrifying.
The central problem with Andhar Maya lies in its inconsistent execution of the fear factor. The ancestral home, intended to be a source of dread, fails to evoke genuine fear. Instead, the audience is left with actors feigning fear rather than conveying it authentically.
Another aspect that the series touches upon is the gender ambivalence of the deceased owner. The man performed in drag and maintained this persona even at home. However, the show’s writers fail to explore the complexities of these themes. Ultimately, the crumbling ancestral home remains the most successful element of the show. The series offers a basic warning to those eager to dispose of their ancestral property, but it falters as a horror experience. With a single ominous setting and a lack of essential horror elements, the result is a lackluster viewing experience.
