‘Forest’ (2025) Movie Review
Introduction
‘Forest’ (2025), directed by Chandra Mohan, blends horror, comedy, and treasure hunt elements into a unique survival drama. The film follows five villagers on a treasure hunt in a dense forest, where they encounter both a ghost and a notorious criminal guarding the hidden fortune. While the comedy falls short, the horror aspects and the intriguing storyline set this film apart.
Story and Narrative
The film centers on cousins Suresha, Satisha, and Meenakshi, alongside a moneylender and a black magician, all in pursuit of quick wealth. Their journey begins after Meenakshi’s grandfather reveals the treasure’s location before passing away. The group ventures into the forest, only to face deadly obstacles, including Beera, the ghost who guards the treasure. As the treasure hunt turns into a battle for survival, the characters must confront both supernatural forces and their own greed.
Direction and Screenplay
Chandra Mohan’s direction captures the eerie atmosphere of the forest and the tension between the characters. The screenplay, co-written with NM Kantharaj and Satya Shaurya Sagar, keeps the audience engaged with the unfolding horror and suspense. However, the comedy elements feel underdeveloped, failing to add the levity needed to balance the darker themes. The film’s pacing is steady, but some moments feel predictable.
Performances
Anish Tejeshwar as Suresha delivers a solid performance, anchoring the film’s central conflict. Gurunandan as Satisha and Archana Kottige as Meenakshi provide competent performances, though their characters lack depth. Chikkanna’s portrayal of Kumar offers some comedic relief, though the humor doesn’t always land. Rangayana Raghu and Sharanya Shetty make an impact in their respective roles, while Suraj Pops, as Beera, brings an eerie presence that elevates the horror aspect of the film.
Music and Cinematography
Dharma Vish’s music is one of the film’s standout features, effectively amplifying the spooky atmosphere and enhancing key horror moments. The cinematography by V. Ravi captures the dense, haunting beauty of the forest, immersing viewers in the setting and adding to the film’s eerie tone.
Themes
‘Forest’ explores themes of greed, survival, and the supernatural. The treasure hunt narrative blends with elements of horror, as the group faces both human and supernatural threats. The film also touches on the consequences of seeking wealth at any cost, with the characters’ desires leading them into dangerous situations.
Critic’s Rating
| Aspect | Rating |
|---|---|
| Story | ⭐️⭐️⭐️ |
| Direction | ⭐️⭐️⭐️ |
| Performances | ⭐️⭐️ |
| Music | ⭐️⭐️⭐️ |
| Overall | ⭐️⭐️⭐️ |
Ratings may be variable.
Conclusion
‘Forest’ combines horror and adventure in an engaging premise, but its underdeveloped comedy detracts from its potential. While the performances are decent and the music and cinematography are impressive, the film falters in its attempt to balance its genres. Fans of supernatural thrillers may still find it entertaining, but those expecting a more cohesive blend of horror and comedy may be left wanting more.
FAQs
What are the main themes of ‘Forest’?
The film explores themes of greed, survival, and the supernatural, with a focus on the consequences of seeking wealth at any cost.
How is the performance of the cast?
The cast delivers competent performances, with Anish Tejeshwar anchoring the narrative. However, some characters feel underdeveloped, and the comedic aspects don’t land as well as expected.
Is ‘Forest’ worth watching for horror fans?
Yes, ‘Forest’ offers a decent horror experience, especially for fans of supernatural thrillers. However, it may not satisfy those seeking a more balanced mix of comedy and horror.
How does the music enhance the film?
The music by Dharma Vish enhances the spooky atmosphere and complements the film’s horror moments, adding depth to the eerie setting.
