Thamma Trailer Launch Unveils Maddock’s Expanding Horror-Comedy Universe with Star Power and Folklore

Maddock Films has officially lifted the curtain on its latest horror-comedy venture, Thamma, with a grand trailer launch that not only introduced the film’s eerie yet humorous tone but also expanded the studio’s ambitious cinematic universe. The event brought together key cast members, producers, and fans in a celebration of Indian folklore, genre innovation, and star-studded storytelling.

Directed by Aditya Sarpotdar, Thamma is the fifth installment in the Maddock Horror Comedy Universe, following the success of Stree, Bhediya, Munjya, and Stree 2. The trailer revealed a compelling blend of romance, mythology, and supernatural suspense, centered around Ayushmann Khurrana’s character, Alok, who finds himself transformed into a vampire—a twist that sets the tone for a “bloody love story” rooted in ancient legends.

The trailer opens with a voiceover declaring, “You are a Betaal, created to protect Earth and humankind,” immediately plunging viewers into a world where myth meets modernity. Ayushmann’s character, grappling with his new identity, delivers lines that balance horror with humor: “How will I eat rajma chawal now? My life and ambitions are over.” This self-aware tone is a hallmark of Maddock’s genre-bending style.

Rashmika Mandanna, who plays the enigmatic Tadaka, was unable to attend the launch in person due to filming commitments in Sicily, but sent a heartfelt video message. She described Tadaka as “a strong and special character” and expressed her excitement for audiences to meet her on screen. Rashmika’s portrayal promises to add emotional depth and fierce energy to the narrative.

The event also featured a surprise announcement from Shraddha Kapoor, the original face of the franchise’s breakout hit Stree. She introduced a new animated prequel titled Choti Stree, which will explore the backstory of her character and serve as a bridge to Stree 3. “Forget international universes—we have our own desi horror universe,” Shraddha declared, unveiling the official logo of the Maddock Horror Comedy Universe to enthusiastic applause.

Producer Dinesh Vijan elaborated on the franchise’s vision, emphasizing its commitment to drawing from India’s rich folklore rather than Western tropes. “Thamma explores the concept of Betaal, a figure deeply rooted in our culture. We’re proud to build stories that reflect who we are,” he said. Vijan also hinted at future characters—Shaktishali and Chamunda—who will debut in upcoming films, further expanding the interconnected universe.

The trailer also teased appearances by Nawazuddin Siddiqui as the villainous Yakshasan, Paresh Rawal in a comedic fatherly role, and special cameos by Varun Dhawan as Bhaskar/Bhediya and Nora Fatehi in a dance number. The ensemble cast reflects Maddock’s strategy of blending mainstream appeal with genre experimentation.

Ayushmann Khurrana, speaking at the launch, called his entry into the Maddock Universe a “full-circle moment,” noting that his brother Aparshakti was part of Stree. “This is my second collaboration with Dinesh and Amar Kaushik. Maddock stands for rooted storytelling and women-first narratives. It’s an honor to be part of this legacy,” he said.

The trailer’s visuals are rich with gothic architecture, misty forests, and vibrant Indian settings, creating a cinematic palette that feels both familiar and fantastical. The soundtrack, featuring the viral track “Dame Un Grrr,” adds a contemporary edge to the folklore-driven plot.

With Thamma slated for release this Diwali, the trailer launch has set the stage for one of the season’s most anticipated films. It promises not just entertainment, but a deeper engagement with India’s mythological past, reimagined for today’s audiences.

As Maddock Films continues to build its horror-comedy universe, Thamma stands as a testament to the studio’s creative ambition and cultural pride. It’s not just a film—it’s a movement, inviting viewers to laugh, scream, and celebrate the monsters within our own stories.