Director: Ravi Shankar Sharma
Producer: Tony, Tito and Sony Singh
Hum Kaun Hai? looks at the relationship between Frank James Williams (Amitabh Bachchan) and his wife Sandra (Dimple Kapadia). Since Frank is an army Major, he went to war some time back and there’s no sign of his return. As time passes, his wife slowly loses hope that he will come back.
To relieve her pain, Sandra focuses her love towards their two children, and although she’s a strict disciplinarian, she raises them utmost care. She receives some help from the family’s servants, Mrs. Pinto (the nanny), Edgar (the gardener), and Maria (the help). Together, they live in an isolated brick mansion set amidst thick woods and mist.
When eerie and spooky occurrences begin within the household, Sandra decides to consult the local priest. On the way, she runs into her husband, who is in a dazed state and seems to be delusional. The children are obviously thrilled to see their father again, however when the daughter reveals a haunting secret, Frank enlists the help of his friend Virendra (Dharmendra) to get to the bottom of the spooky activities surrounding the house.
Frank with his friend Virendra take it upon themselves to get to the bottom of the mystery and intrigue, surrounding the Williams.
This film sees the comeback of the dynamic duo of Amitabh Bachchan and Dharmendra after 23 years.
Bollywood film buffs will also be glad to see the presence of stars from the 70's films. These include Dimple Kapadia, Moushmi Chatterjee and Prem Chopra.
HUM KAUN HAI? moves at an unhurried pace from start to end. Thankfully, there are no songs [one doesn't miss them either] or the mandatory romantic interludes. But the film loses its grip towards the post-interval portions. Although the story gets interesting, it's not involving.
Director Ravi Shankar Sharma has handled the eerie sequences deftly. Amitabh Bachchan enacts his part with conviction. Dharmendra fails to impress, partly because of the forced characterization. Moushumi Chatterjee is first-rate, flashing the evil smile and mysterious look fluently.
On the whole, HUM KAUN HAI? is more of an experimental film.
