We are at a crossroad like never before. The corona lockdown is gradually being relaxed at a time when infection figures are high all across India. So it is still unsafe to be free and footloose. We are trying not to step out unless for provisions or most urgent jobs. But what can keep our minds off the horror around us? A horror movie, what else?

Since cinema halls are closed and there is hardly any chance that these will open anytime soon, our only recourse is online releases. While scouting for a solid scary movie over the internet, we came across ‘Unlock’ movie streaming ZEE5. This was directed by Debatma Mandal. The movie looked promising for two reasons. First, we have already watched the web-thriller Kaali on ZEE5 and everything about it starting from the script to acting to cinematography gripped us. Second, Debtama Mandal has churned out some of the best horror movies over the internet in the last couple of years. His repertoire in Hindi and Bengali horror films is impressive indeed.

Image source: ZEE5.com

The trailer of ‘Unlock: the haunted’ was more of a teaser. Images sort of come and go and you are left with a sense of visually appealing freshness and a lot of intrigues. It seemed to have all the makings that we would expect in top horror movies. We waited with bated breath for the release on 27th June 2020.

It was Saturday night when we watched Unlock. A bit of a spoiler alert – but we cannot but talk about the unique plot – and an ominous love triangle! Suhani has a strong crush on Amar who is in a relationship with her friend and roommate Riddhi. Suhani comes to know of an app from the dark web that promises to make someone’s darkest wishes come true. Suhani is tempted and installs the diabolical app to win over the love of her life. But there is a twist. Suhani has to perform three difficult tasks if she wants her wishes to come true. The tasks assigned to her are chilling, to say the least. But besotted by her obsessive love, Suhani agrees. But would the sinister will of the haunted app succeed? This issue keeps us on the edge during the hour or so. Every moment of this haunted movie is riveting and we keep shutting our eyes in unadulterated fear. As the audience, we are all sweaty and drained out when the movie ends. Our weekend evening is made!

Unlock is a must-watch for many reasons. First, under Debatma’s direction, gripping performances by Hina Khan as Suhani, Aditi Arya as Riddhi, Kushal Tandon as Amar and the rest of the cast create the perfect balance between horror and love. Hina Khan as Suhani sensitively assays the victim of obsessive love who is willing to go any length.  Second, we love the music score. After ages, it sounds as if we are watching a horror film and not an amateurish attempt. Third, there is not a single dull moment and the whole saga unfolds in a mere one hour or so. This is just the duration that works when we are watching any online production at home. More than that, we tend to get distracted.

So yes, we thoroughly enjoyed Unlock streaming now on ZEE5. After ages, we would rate an online release among top 10 horror movies. If you are into the horror-thriller genre – Unlock on ZEE5 is a must-watch.