Several horror films have come and gone but director, Vishal Mahadkar insists that his upcoming film, 3AM, will have a lasting impression on viewers for its originality and creepy quotient. We caught up with him for a quick chat
Shameem Khan (MID-DAY; September 4, 2014)

What is the premise of your film, 3AM?
I wrote the script during a workshop and it was selected as the best story. I thought of auctioning it in Hollywood but then I got busy with my film ‘Blood Money’. Later, I decided to turn the script into a film myself. It’s about a reality show host and his quest to explore what is beyond life. He goes on a ghost-hunting expedition and locks himself in a haunted place from dawn to dusk. His experiences with the paranormal forms the crux of the story.

Why did you select Rannvijay and newcomer Anandita Nayar for the film?
Since Rannvijay was anchoring a show on MTV on similar lines, he was my first choice. I had auditioned Anandita for Blood Money but things didn’t work out then and we opted for Amrita Puri. For 3AM, I wanted a fresh face and hence, brought her on board. She fits the role perfectly and has done a good job. Three composers, Pranay Vijaya, Rajat Manan and the Pakistani band, Raeth, have composed some interesting music for the film.

Would you call yourself a protégée of Vishesh films?
I have spent most of my learning years with the Bhatts but I have my own identity. Like them, even I have a strong ear for good music. Apart from that, my film is different from what they attempt. In fact, (Mahesh) Bhatt saab did not like the script of 3AM. They had roped me to direct Raaz 4, an adaptation of Omen. But things didn’t work out and I decided to start work on 3AM. I have two more projects in the pipeline which are out and out romantic films.