“Free Karungaapiyam (Kali Kitaab)” is a bilingual horror-thriller that attempts to break genre boundaries with an anthology-style narrative. Directed by Deekay, the film stitches together multiple horror stories rooted in folklore, dark magic, and psychological tension. With a strong female-led cast featuring Kajal Aggarwal and Regina Cassandra, the film explores a sinister book and the cursed legacy it unleashes.

Plot & Execution

The movie revolves around an ancient, forbidden book—Karungaapiyam (translated as Black Book or Kali Kitaab in Hindi)—and the eerie stories tied to it. Each story unravels a layer of fear, superstition, and the supernatural.

The narrative weaves through different time periods and characters, which gives it an episodic, almost anthology-like structure. While some segments hit the mark with clever twists and atmospheric tension, others feel rushed or underdeveloped.

Deekay attempts an ambitious crossover of Tamil and Hindi horror tropes, combining folklore with psychological horror. But the transitions between stories occasionally lack cohesion, which may confuse viewers not accustomed to non-linear storytelling.

Performances

• Kajal Aggarwal delivers a mature performance, carrying her segments with poise. She shows a solid emotional range, especially in the darker, more intense sequences.
• Regina Cassandra impresses with her screen presence and a nuanced portrayal of vulnerability mixed with grit.
• Janani and Noyrika also give commendable performances, although their arcs feel slightly overshadowed by the central plot device—the cursed book.

Wind Up

Free Karungaapiyam (Kali Kitaab) dares to step beyond typical horror formulas, blending myth, mystery, and female-led narratives across languages. While not every story hits home, the film earns points for its ambitious structure, moody cinematography, and powerful performances, especially by Kajal Aggarwal. It’s not your average horror flick—it’s a layered, atmospheric experience that might not terrify you outright but will definitely linger in your thoughts. For fans of folklore-based psychological horror, it’s a bold watch worth trying.