User reviews

Khauf is a well-made horror show and a welcome change from the cringe algorithm-driven stuff that passes for web series in today's times. The show is created by a woman and she tells the story from a female gaze. I mention this because every male character here is problematic, lecherous, creepy, condescending, misogynistic and whatnot. If this were the case for a show from a male director, it would be considered problematic. But that's a minor aside. The show is engaging, has good actors and is technically quite well made. You could find it a bit long-drawn towards the end and predictable at times, but it is written and performed with a lot of heart. The most interesting storyline is that of Monika Panwar who is sexual assault survivor who believes she has finally identified her masked assaulter. This forms the most thoughtful and well sketched out storyline of the show. Two other strands play out - one involving a hakim with black magic abilities and another involving the scared hostel girls who cannot leave the premises. This bit too is interesting but loses steam after a while. The bit involving the mother/constable searching for her lost son forms the connecting tissue for the stories and seems at times like a unwanted diversion. Of course it all comes together at the end, and the finale might leave you both thrilled and perplexed. Why only one of the dead from the hostel turned into a vengeful ghost while another person from the hostel who also died didn't is a question you don't want to ask. Why did all the people killed by the hakim not turn into vengeful ghosts? Again, don't ask. The finale is apparently about ghost wanting control over the woman and she fighting back. Why that desire specifically? And by the end, when the revenge is completed, is she now controlling the frightening ghost? Such questions can spoil the engagement so its best not to ask them.

A very fresh take in a horror genre, It has it all,eerie locations, characters build up and story unfolding in a subtle way.

The direction was thoughtful and dialogue delivery by all the actors was on point, special mentions to actor monika panwar(who plays madhu, she is a NSD passout), chum darang(lana) and last but obviously not the least Rajat Kapoor.

Finally its good to see how "real" actors can make the story telling almost equal to a live action, Sad truth is that the girl like lead will have to work really hard to get their first movie, whereas nepokids will keep on getting even after lackluster and expressionless acting.

Story's backdrop is the bustling city of Delhi, yet it creates a sense of fear in you through its secluded locations, old structures and bang on BGM.

Overall it comes as a breath of fresh air for someone who really admires the horror thriller genre, but was bored of watching the cliched movies in a past decade, satisfying ending will definitely give you goosebumps and a thought to ponder. Great work AMAZON PRIME.

Khauf is a must-watch for anyone who's been craving a good Indian horror series. It's engaging right from the start and manages to maintain a chilling atmosphere throughout. Rajat Kapoor and Monika Panwar deliver standout performances, adding depth and authenticity to the eerie narrative. The casting overall is spot-on, with each actor fitting their role perfectly especially Shilpa Shukla.

While there are a few slow moments, the series quickly finds its rhythm and keeps you hooked. It's refreshing to see Indian horror executed with such finesse-blending psychological elements with atmospheric dread rather than relying on cheap jump scares. Definitely a step in the right direction for the genre!

I started watching it with zero expectations, just casually clicking play, not knowing that within a couple of episodes, I'd be absolutely glued to the screen. By the time I reached the fifth episode, I had to pause - not because I was bored, but because I was overwhelmed. I genuinely couldn't remember the last time I saw something this compelling, this masterfully done, in Indian cinema - especially in horror.

The acting? Flawless. Every performance hits you - raw, real, unnerving. The writing? Sharp, layered, intelligent - not a single line wasted. The direction? Bold, atmospheric, confident - a vision that knows exactly what it's doing. And the environment, the sheer tone and mood of the show - it crawls under your skin and stays there.

This isn't just good horror. This is elevated horror - the kind that doesn't rely on cheap thrills but builds dread, breathes atmosphere, and respects your intelligence. It's deeply rooted in Indian storytelling yet feels universally haunting. Honestly, this might just be the best horror ever produced in India. It's not just entertainment - it's a revelation.

I feel incredibly proud to say that Khauf has been created by Indian filmmakers-what a gem! As someone who's a die-hard fan of the horror genre (but usually runs miles away from Bollywood horror), this series was an absolute surprise and a total win.

Khauf is a slow-burn masterpiece that grips you from the very first episode. Each episode starts with glimpses of the past, beautifully merging into the present-day narrative. The storytelling is so well-crafted that you just can't look away. Every episode incovers a new layer, keeping your curiosity and anxiety at peak levels.

The direction and cinematography? Just wow. The mood, the silence, the build-up-everything is so thoughtfully executed. I started watching the series thinking I'd just give it a try-and ended up binge-watching the entire thing in one go, from the same spot. That's how gripping it is.

To anyone who appreciates smart horror with depth and originality-Khauf is a must-watch. I promise, it's nothing like the usual horror tropes you've come to expect. Hats off to the creators for doing absolute justice to this genre.

Highly recommended. Don't miss it! It is available on Amazon Prime.

I rate it six because I'm pretty strict with rating and I also have my personal preferences but I think with less strict rating it would deserve may seven or eight.

Well.. it wasn't exceptional but decent enough to watch even for someone that is not horror genre fan. So if you don't have idea what to watch give it a shot.

Definitely some shots were really good from artistic perspective, I loved colours and lights. Camera movement pretty decent too.

CGI also deserves some praise and with few exceptions (ants and last destruction scene) it was well done.

Acting was pretty natural.

Story was pretty smooth and there was no slow movements although for me personally especially few first episodes the flashbacks were confusing.

Edge of the seat thriller ! Very well made. Acting was great. Script and direction top notch. Eerie locations mixes with Delhi background was great. Some jump scare moments well intertwined. It offers a thought-provoking take on the horror genre, intertwining supernatural elements with social commentary, Monika Panwar delivers a compelling performance. The star cast is solid. Stand out performance by Rajat Kapoor and Chum. This series will bring forward matchbox production in the limelight. Quietly it's hit the OTT and just by word of mouth the series will come out winner. Looking forward to more!

A horror series that thrives on the contextual depth of its underlying themes rather than relying on the typical tropes of the genre. This approach could have easily faltered if the messages lacked substance or were poorly articulated, but thankfully, that was not the case, not at all!

"Khauf's" intentions are communicated with clarity, and I commend the creators for their thoughtful dedication to their primary goal, which was to deliver a powerful commentary on the issues regarding women's abuse and assault; topics that are always essential for sparking meaningful conversations.

However, if one were to set aside the thematic elements and evaluate the work purely from a cinematic perspective, particularly as a horror showcase, it does reveal certain shortcomings.

To begin with, the parallel narrative structure employed by the script feels clumsy and inefficient, leading to a tangled web of characters and their respective motives and purposes, the 'interlinking' which was supposed to come off as ingenious and clever comes across as convoluted and half-baked.

Moreover, the usual jump scares and fear-inducing scenes seem tonally disjointed from the rest of the execution. Each time the focus shifts from core messaging to the horror elements, the subtlety is vanishes, thereby diminishing the efficacy of the all-around storytelling.

Grips you from the first frame with an eerie intensity that lingers long after the screen fades. Beneath its haunting atmosphere lies a powerful commentary on the quiet suffering and deep-seated fears women endure in everyday life. The series doesn't just aim to scare-it unsettles by exposing societal demons that are all too real. Each chilling moment is layered with meaning, showing how fear is both external and internal, rooted in lived experiences. It's a rare blend of horror and harsh reality, brought to life with evocative direction and striking performances that leave a lasting impression.

Filled with atmospheric tension and protagonists compelling performance. The cinematography and sound design effectively create a sense of unease.

However, the horror elements may not fully deliver the expected scares, and the narrative occasionally becomes muddled by addressing multiple social themes simultaneously.

But these are minor glitches which can be overlooked given the series keeps you on the edge of your seats... Monika Panwar's performance and transformation is commendable All the supporting cast perform to the full potential.

Rajat Kapoor deserves a spaecial mention.

But this engaging Indian Horror series is a must watch...

No doubt the makers tried to make the series as one of the most chilling one however despite of superb acting by Chum, Monika and Rajat Kapoor yet the storyline lack basic relevance of facts and their possible connection with the character. The storyline lack basic revolves around a room where the girls hide the dead body and eventually the room becomes the epicentre of horror as the spirit haunts them. However the role of Rajat Kapoor is not at all justified. The creator tried to give him the looks of the Hakim as the one in the movie Pari, however the cast of Hakim in Khauff has no significance with the story. The warden, The Cop Mom all these character doesnt play any vital role in the movie, whereas the movie circles around them. However the acting skills of all these actors were remarkable yet the horror factor was lacking behind and the story was a bit monotonous.

If you listen to youtube reviews and decide to watch this let me tell you that you will be surprised in an unpleasant way. So much hype created for this show is of no use. The story is painfully slow. With all women without any makeup looking extremely ugly. Rajat kapoors dialogues are dumb and so inaudible that I had to pump up my tv volume to 50. Pari was better than this . I was waiting and waiting for the story to unfold. But it doesn't happen. Delhi has been portrayed completely lawless and its men as monsters. Really a pathetic way to execute the story. Only those with immense patience can sit through this trauma of a show.

I'm not a huge fan of web series, but this one got me hooked. I finished all the episodes in one go, and boy, does this series give you the creeps. I can confidently say Khauf is one of the most technically brilliant and chilling horror shows to come out of India.

There are three main plots that run in parallel - they can be a bit confusing at times, but it all comes together with a satisfying ending. The best part of the series is the dingy locations - they really add to the overall sense of dread.

Definitely give it a watch if you're a horror fan and appreciate good storytelling with solid production.

Starts as a slow burner series, then grips you in so much that you get totally engrossed in it.

All the Actors playing their Characters looks so Natural and Real.

The Creator of the show has gone for a topic which is totally current times, giving a wonderful flavour of Fear associated with it.

Special mention to the main actress Monika Panwar who has done outstanding work along with Rajat Kapur. All the 5 lady characters showcase the right set of emotions and natural acting.

You will binge watch it totally in one go.

Highly Recommended as it is one of the finest Indian webseries in recent times.

Khauf starts fantastically and scores big time in technalities.... it goes with a perfect rhythm and interesting plots .. nicely wooven together. Then suddenly it takes path of clichés... The biggest letdown was murder of two male culprits. It's picturization doesn't go with the tone of the series which it has set. The most challenging part was resolution and again it was a let down. May be writer was eyeing a second season and that's what the problem is. Ending is a mess .... The good must conquer evil. You are aiming for millions of viewers and all are as smart as you na .... I started with ... I m loving it ..... I ended it with ... raita faila diya yaar .....

After a really long time, I've come across a creative horror piece made in India. Totally unexpected, especially in a country where thrillers often end up being unintentional comedies. This one genuinely surprised me with its originality and execution. Definitely worth a watch if you're into horror with a twist of creativity. But fair warning-watch it alone or with friends, not with parents, unless you're ready for some awkward silence and explanations. Monika Panwar, Chum Darang and Rajat Kapoor were the heart of the show, their performance was exceptional. The remaining cast were phenomenal.

After a long time, something truly gripping has arrived on the Indian horror scene. Khauf is a breath of fresh (or rather, haunting) air that finally does justice to the genre. It blends psychological tension with supernatural elements in a way that keeps you hooked from start to finish.

Monica Panvar delivers an intense, layered performance that lingers in your mind long after the credits roll. Rajat Kapoor, as always, brings a quiet gravitas to the screen-his presence elevates every scene he's in. Their chemistry and conflict drive the emotional core of the story.

The direction is top-notch-stylish, moody, and restrained where it needs to be. The cinematography and sound design work together to create a claustrophobic, eerie atmosphere that genuinely gets under your skin without relying on cheap jump scares.

The writing is sharp and nuanced, managing to build dread slowly while keeping the mystery alive. It's rare to see horror in India that's this well-crafted, intelligent, and emotionally resonant.

Highly recommend it to fans of serious horror. Khauf is unsettling in the best possible way.

Loved the show! It's was sooo gripping and entertaining. I take 1 week to finish 1 episode but binged watched it at one stretch. Kudos to the writer for rewiring this genre! So well written and well acted! The lead Monika is fabulous and acted extremely well. Fit into the character with such ease. I could only see Madhu and her traits. The cast fit also Chum, Shilpa fit in so well with their characters. Not one scene was boring or needed to be fast forwarded! This 8 episode thriller is a must watch for all cinema buffs. Kudos to the entire team, cast and crew writers, producer, director! Take a bow!!!!

## Web Series Review: Khauf I recently watched Khauf, and unfortunately, it didn't quite live up to my expectations. Here's my take:

### Building Tension, But Failing to Deliver Each episode effectively built tension, keeping me engaged and curious about what would happen next. However, the final episode felt rushed and didn't quite deliver the horror experience I was anticipating.

### Lack of Horror Elements Despite the promising setup, the series lacked genuine horror elements. The scares felt predictable, and the plot twists were somewhat telegraphed.

### Comparison to Classic Horror Movies In contrast, films like Pari, Tumbbad, and Ghoul are masterclasses in horror storytelling. They expertly craft tension, suspense, and fear, making for a truly unsettling experience.

### Issues with Khauf's Writing The writing in Khauf felt busy and rushed, leading to several issues:

1. *Underdeveloped characters*: The characters lacked depth and complexity, making it hard to invest in their stories.

2. *Plot holes*: There were several inconsistencies in the narrative that pulled me out of the story.

3. *Unresolved plot threads*: Some plot points were left unresolved, leaving me feeling unsatisfied.

### Conclusion Overall, while Khauf had its moments, it ultimately fell short of delivering a truly frightening experience. If you're a fan of horror, you might find better options elsewhere.

This horror series offers a fresh perspective with its eerie settings, gradual character development, and subtle unfolding of the story. Thoughtful direction and impactful dialogue delivery by actors like Monika Panwar, Chum Darang, and Rajat Kapoor enhance the viewing experience. Unlike typical casting trends, the talented lead actress shines. Set against Delhi's backdrop, the series masterfully creates fear through its locations and compelling background music. It's a breath of fresh air for horror enthusiasts seeking something beyond clichés, delivering a satisfying and thought-provoking conclusion.

Khauf is a bold and refreshing entry into the Indian horror scene. Set in a Delhi women's hostel, the series masterfully blends psychological suspense with social commentary. Monika Panwar is brilliant in the lead role, portraying Madhuri with raw intensity, and the overall atmosphere is eerie without relying on overused jump scares.

The writing deserves praise for tackling themes like trauma, patriarchy, and repressed memories within a horror framework. The pacing is slow but deliberate, which works for the most part, although some episodes could've been tighter.

The only downside-and it's a big one for some-is the ambiguous ending. The creators chose to leave a lot to the viewer's imagination, which can be intriguing for some and unsatisfying for others. Personally, I appreciated the risk, but I wish there had been just a bit more closure.

Overall, Khauf is a well-crafted, thought-provoking horror series that stands out in the Indian streaming landscape. Definitely worth a watch if you're looking for horror with substance.

Khauf is a pretty interesting and scary series which does a great job of mixing real life horrors and the supernatural. The writer and creator of the show has done a great job at infusing a story about possession, black magic and crime with the insecurities, worries and abuses that women face in society on a day to day basis. Horror movie and series fans will be able to predict most of the direction that Khauf takes but should still be able to appreciate how it has been conceptualized, visualized and brought to screen.

The acting is very good across the board. Monika Panwar does a great job as Madhu who is the victim of several things real and paranormal. She delivers one of the best performances of someone possessed in Bollywood. Rajat Kapoor does a great job in creating a truly nefarious and menacing character. Some more screen time and development of his characters could have made the series scarier. These two definitely deliver the standout performances of the series. However all the other actors also do a great job in their respective roles.

The best thing about the series is the uneasy atmosphere created with the eerie rooms, haunting visuals, elements of teasing/stalking/assault and some pretty good VFX. There are some good jump scares but it is the creepy undertone augmented by real life references that make the series worth watching. This is a step in the right direction towards gripping long form horror series. I liked it. 7.5/10.