EK THI DAAYAN (15, 132 mins) *** Starring Emraan Hashmi, Huma Qureshi, Kalki Koechlin. Director: Kannan Iyer

Ek Thi Daayan (Once There Was A Witch) is Kannan Iyer’s debut film.

The filmmaker who has been a part of the film industry for many years made his presence felt in 1997 with the fairly mediocre Daud: Fun On The Run and has waited almost two decades to make his mark as a director.

Backed by the influential producer Ekta Kapoor who was responsible last year’s hit The Dirty Picture, as well as the forthcoming crime thriller Shootout at Wadala, Ek Thi Daayan is Kapoor’s first foray into the difficult genre of a supernatural thriller.

Bobo the Baffler (Hashmi) is a renowned magician in India, but has had a troubled childhood. His constant hallucinations leave him with no option but to seek psychiatric help.

Under hypnosis, Bobo recalls his childhood in which he narrates the story of a woman who enters his father’s life and ultimately destroys his family.

The woman comes in the form of a sinister power called ‘daayan’ and promises Bobo that she will be back later in his life.

Supernatural thrillers are always difficult to narrate, but Iyer has successfully managed to tell a story that leaves the viewer intrigued and at times making you jump off your seats.

The introduction of the ‘daayan’ in the first half is excellent and sets an eerie mood for the rest of the film.

Hashmi as the troubled magician is excellent in an intense role as are Qureshi as his fiance and Koechlin as their friendly neighbour.

Iyer’s direction is excellent and he manages to keep the story intact with its good pace and creepy ambience. Ek Thi Daayan is a good entertainer and a treat for those who enjoy supernatural thrillers.