Khauf is a chilling, slow-burn psychological horror show written by Smita Singh and directed by Pankaj Kumar and Surya Balakrishnan. Now streaming on Amazon Prime, Khauf promises a deeply unsettling ride. But is it worth taking?
Storyline
Madhu, a young lady from Gwalior carrying scars from a traumatic past, moves to Delhi in search of a new beginning. With her boyfriend’s support, she (albeit hesitantly) settles into a secluded working women hostel. Her assigned room, steeped in a tragic history, soon reveals its sinister secrets.
Adding to the intrigue are the hostel’s weird residents and an unsettling atmosphere. Meanwhile, in old Delhi, a mysterious hakim (traditional healer) with a dark agenda and a senior police constable frantically searching for her missing son add to the unfolding mystery.
As these tracks intertwine and a spirit joins the narrative, Khauff leaves a trail that has elements of trauma, revenge, gore and sisterhood.
What is the true secret of the hostel? Who is the enigmatic hakim? And what scary forces are at play?
Our critique
Khauf is a bold attempt at crafting a psychological horror narrative that feels grounded yet deeply unsettling. Smita Singh builds a dark, intricate world where every character’s past demons seamlessly blend into the ongoing terror.
While the narrative unfolds at a very slow pace, it remains gripping throughout, keeping viewers invested. The direction is focused and the execution near-perfect. Cinematography and lighting effectively heighten the mood, amplifying the constant sense of fear.
The portrayal of the paranormal elements however, falls short. The spirit’s depiction lacks impact in comparison to the tension that the story otherwise so brilliantly builds up.
Screen Performances
Jamtara-fame Monika Panwar delivers a powerful performance as Madhu, capturing the vulnerability and strength of a woman grappling with inner and outer horrors.
The gang of girls — Chum Darang (Lana), Rashmi Zurail Mann (Nikki), Priyanka Setia (Rima), Riya Shukla (Komal), and Asheema Vardaan (Anu) — share good chemistry and bring authenticity to their roles. Abhishek Chauhan, as Madhu’s boyfriend, is honest and continues the charm he brought into his role from Cubicles.
Geetanjali Kulkarni as the desperate constable, Shalini Vatsa as the stern warden, and Shilpa Shukla as the psychiatrist Dr. Shohini offer solid support. But it’s Rajat Kapoor as the eerie hakim who truly stands out, infusing the series with a brooding menace that stays long after the scenes end.
Overall opinion
Khauf succeeds as a slow-burn, atmospheric horror drama that gives more weightage to psychological tension over cheap thrills. Despite flaws, it is a compelling and memorable watch for fans of the genre. Recommended.
Our rating
