Bhoot Part One: The Haunted Ship is a weak attempt for a horror flick. It uses all the old-fashioned cliche of a horror film, including an evil ghost that crawls on walls and screams gibberish.
Directed by Bhanu Pratap Singh, the film revolves around the character of Prithvi Prakashan [Vicky Kaushal], a shipping officer. We are introduced to him as he single-handedly rescues several women from being trafficked in a shipping container.
Right off the bat we see a depressed man who is struggling to cope with the death of his wife and daughter. The film travels back in time to reveal parts of Prithvi’s life when he married Sapna [Bhumi Pednekar], having a daughter and their accidental death by drowning.
Scene from Bhoot Part One: The Haunted ShipIn present day however, an old abandoned ship called ‘Sea-Bird’ mysteriously docks at a port in Mumbai leading to an investigation led by Prithvi.
He inspects every room and discovers a CD with footage of the crew from the early 2000’s. This serves as a primary clue in the investigation and he soon notices supernatural activities on the ‘Sea Bird.’
There are subtle similarities between the condition of the ship and Prithvi’s life – abandonment, distress, loss and perhaps even guilt. This could be why he is drawn towards it. However, there are several plot holes leaving many unanswered questions.
The film tries to build tension, but fails due to lack of substance in the story. After the interval, the suspense of the ghost and the last passengers is revealed extremely casually – there’s even a stereotypical “know-it-all” scientist/professor playing ‘hot & cold’ to trace the spirit with a tiny instrument.
Bhoot Part One: The Haunted Ship relies heavily on the eerie set of the ship (it’s primary prop) designed by Aditya Kanwar and sound design by Anish John. The gloomy color tones are also used cleverly by Colorist Ashirwad Hadkar, but it’s just not enough to afloat a sinking script.
Popcorn Rating: 
[1 / 5]
There’s nothing new or haunting about this “horror film.”
The title suggests the possibility of a second installment. Let’s hope it succeeds in living up to the genre in the sequel.
Bhoot Part One: The Haunted Ship is streaming on Amazon Prime.
