Director - Abhnav Pareek 
Writer - Shubho Shekhar Bhattacharjee
Cast - Vaibhav Tatwawadi, Mukti Mohan, Akshay Anand and Monica Chaudhary
 
Abhinav Pareek’s A Wedding Story attempts to breathe new life into the horror genre with its intriguing premise rooted in Vedic astrology and the ominous Panchak period. The film sets itself up for a thrilling ride but ultimately falters due to uneven execution and a disjointed narrative.
 
The story kicks off with an intriguing premise: during the inauspicious Panchak period, when certain rituals are believed to ward off negative energies, Tarun Nain (Lakshvir Saran) dismisses the pandit’s advice and refuses to burn five flour statues at his father’s funeral. These statues, infused with life, are accidentally transported to a farmhouse by Tarun and his cousin Vikram (Vaibhav Tatwawadi). What follows is a series of eerie and unsettling events that put Vikram’s fiancée Preeti Bharadwaj (Mukti Mohan) and the rest of the family at risk.
 
The initial part of the film is effective in building a creepy atmosphere and establishing the stakes. The idea of a curse tied to the Panchak period adds a fresh twist to the horror genre. The atmosphere is well-crafted, and the tension is palpable, drawing viewers into the unsettling world of the film.
 
However, the film’s second half is where things start to unravel. The narrative loses its momentum as it drifts away from the central horror elements and becomes entangled in family drama and inconsistencies. Key plot points are glossed over, and the focus shifts abruptly, leaving crucial questions unanswered. The film’s 110-minute runtime feels rushed, particularly after the interval, and a more extended exploration could have helped to flesh out the storyline and develop the characters more deeply.
 
Director Abhinav Pareek deserves credit for creating an atmospheric setting that adds to the film’s eerie feel. Supratim Bhol’s cinematography enhances the mood with his skillful use of camera angles and lighting. The music by Sucheeta Bhattacharjee and Rahi Syed also contributes to the film’s atmospheric qualities.
 
The performances are solid, with Vaibhav Tatwawadi and Mukti Mohan showcasing strong chemistry as the central couple. Lakshvir Saran, despite limited screen time, leaves a notable impact. However, the film struggles with character development, which affects the overall engagement with the story.
 
A Wedding Story brings a novel concept to the table but falters due to a fragmented narrative and missed opportunities for deeper exploration. While it offers a strong start with atmospheric scares and a promising premise, the film ultimately struggles to deliver a cohesive and haunting experience. With tighter storytelling and more focused character development, it could have been a standout entry in the horror genre.