Showing posts with label Vishal Furia. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Vishal Furia. Show all posts

Behind the screams: Decoding the craft of horror filmmaking

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Vinay MR Mishra (BOMBAY TIMES; October 29, 2025)

What makes a good horror film truly terrifying? It’s not just the blood-curdling screams, eerie silences or sudden jump scares — it’s the invisible architecture behind the fear. The best horror filmmakers know that real terror lies in storytelling, emotion and technical precision. Crafting fear that lingers long after the credits roll demands far more than prosthetics and dim lighting; it requires vision, patience and a deep understanding of human psychology.

As Halloween approaches, BT speaks to directors who have ventured into the dark corridors of horror cinema to decode what makes the genre so challenging and rewarding to create.

‘Invest in the story, the scares are just packaging’
For any director, the heart of a horror film is its story. Without it, scares feel hollow. Pavan Kirpalani, who directed Ragini MMS and Phobia, emphasizes that a strong script and invested characters are the foundation. “What makes a good horror film is a good script, a good story and a good theme. You have to invest in the story; invest in the world you’re entering into. Then the scares are just packaging. An action movie without a story is hollow. Once you have characters that you care about, the horror becomes intriguing, and the stakes are higher,” he explains.

‘When you fear the unknown, it has to exist in a world you recognize’
Aditya Sarpotdar, director of Munjya and Thamma, believes relatability amplifies fear. “What always works in a good horror film is a relatable set-up. When you fear the unknown, it has to exist in a world you recognise,” he says. Recalling Bhoot directed by Ram Gopal Varma, he adds, “A ghost in a Mumbai apartment was terrifying. I thought... why wouldn’t the ghost be around where I am? That relatability is everything.”

‘It’s difficult to get horror films backed by producers’
Despite the recent success of films like Shaitaan and Stree 2, directors admit that pure horror remains a hard sell. “It’s difficult to get horror films backed by producers. A horror comedy is easier because it casts a wider net. Straight horror, production-wise and money-wise, is tougher to mount. We are still nowhere close to what the West is doing with it. We are still barely scratching the surface when it comes to horror,” says Pavan Kirpalani.

‘Unfortunately, people here make horror films to make a quick buck’
For director Vishal Furia, passion is paramount. “A filmmaker’s absolute love for the genre is what it takes to make a horror film. Unfortunately, people in India make horror films just to make a quick buck. But then they end up making a shoddy horror film, which is why the genre has not evolved in Bollywood. But if a filmmaker really puts his passion and love into the film, then he can make something interesting out of it,” he states.

‘Only when the actor feels scared is when the audience feels scared’
When asked if it is a challenging genre to direct, Aditya Sarpotdar says, “Horror is difficult to direct because making the audience enter the world that you’re building depends on many factors, like the way you tell the story, the performances and other technicalities.”

Vishal Furia adds, “When the actor feels scared is when the audience feels scared. Even the person playing the ghost has to be mentally and physically strong. Under layers of prosthetic and constant retakes, performance can suffer. That’s why it’s one of the hardest genres to direct.”

On the other hand, Pavan Kirpalani believes, “A horror movie is easier to make as you’re only striding one tone.”

‘Horror is a very technical genre’
Once the story is set, horror lives in the craft. Vishal Furia, of Chhorii fame, believes this is a very technical genre. “Every department has to work perfectly. One misstep, and the scene could look funny or pull the audience out. The mood has to be consistent. The DOP, sound designer, prosthetics team, editor — everyone must be in rhythm. One bad lighting cue can kill a scare,” he explains.

Pavan Kirpalani echoes this and adds, “Making a horror film is a technical process. Sound, prosthetics, VFX, camera work, lighting — everything has to align. But most important is, what the character is doing, driven by the story.”

Bollywood horror films are a sleaze fest-Vishal Furia

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Chhorii director Vishal Furia: ‘Bollywood horror films are a sleaze fest’

Noting that Hindi horror movies have attained B-grade status, Chhorii 2 director Vishal Furia aims to restore the genre’s credibility
Mohar Basu (MID-DAY; April 1, 2025)

Not everyone has an appetite for horror, but Vishal Furia remembers being fascinated with the genre from his early years. For the director, watching A Nightmare On Elm Street (1984) in his childhood was a defining moment.

“The character of Freddy haunted me to the extent that I would not sleep, fearing that he might trap me in my dreams,” he recalls, laughing. His love for the genre has led him to helm the Marathi movie, Lapachhapi (2017), and its Hindi adaptation Chhorii (2021). Now, the director is returning with Chhorii 2.

The upcoming Prime Video film sees Nushrratt Bharuccha reprise her role of Sakshi, whose peaceful life is shattered when her seven-year-old daughter is kidnapped and taken back to the haunted fields. With the Bharuccha and Soha Ali Khan-starrer, the director has tried to create a horror movie that has roots in human emotions, from deep love to insecurities.

Furia argues that horror outings in Bollywood have largely involved over-the-top theatrics and formulaic narratives, which has diminished the genre’s credibility. “Bollywood horror has been more of a sleaze fest. It has lost its respect and attained a B-grade status. My endeavour is to strive to earn respect for the Indian classic horror genre. A well-made horror film is one that lingers in the viewer’s mind long after the credits roll. It can be effectively used to tell great human stories. I have tried to use the genre of ‘social horror’ in the Chhorii universe to delve into issues of social inequality and oppression,” he states.

Ajay Devgn sees rushes of Kajol’s Maa; recommends adding more action scenes

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Kajol's Maa to feature more action sequences as per Ajay Devgn's suggestion

Sources say producer Ajay Devgn, who saw rushes of Kajol’s Maa, recommended adding more action scenes; team to shoot new portions next month
Upala KBR (MID-DAY; October 31, 2024)

In mid-May, director Vishal Furia announced that the shoot of Maa, his first collaboration with Kajol, was wrapped up. But five months on, it looks like the lead actor and the director will return to the horror movie’s set. mid-day has learnt that Kajol’s actor-husband Ajay Devgn, who serves as the producer, recently watched the rushes of Maa and suggested that a few more action scenes be added. So, Furia and the team have charted out a five-day shoot in Mumbai next month.

From Son of Sardaar (2012) to Bholaa (2023), Devgn is known to be a hands-on producer, and it’s no different for his upcoming production. The actor is all the more invested in this project as it marks wife Kajol’s maiden horror film. A source revealed that Devgn has been involved in the creative process right from the concept stage.

“Writer Saiwyn Quadras had pitched the concept to Ajay, who liked it and set things into motion. Recently, the actor watched the rough cut and loved it. That was immensely encouraging for Vishal, who has displayed his command over the genre with Chhorii [2021]. Ajay gave him a few inputs to enhance the narrative,” revealed an insider.
 
Set in Chandanpur in West Bengal, Maa tells the story of a woman who has to protect her daughter from a supernatural force. Devgn, who had a hit in the horror thriller Shaitaan earlier this year, felt that Furia’s film could be more deeply rooted in emotions.

“He felt adding some emotional moments would increase the audience’s investment in the mother-daughter story. He also recommended incorporating one or two more action sequences. The director immediately agreed to these modifications. Since Kajol is currently shooting for the second season of The Trial, the unit will regroup in late November for a five-day shoot in Mumbai,” said the source.

We’ve heard that action director R P Yadav, who worked with Devgn on Tanhaji (2020) and Shaitaan, has been told to up the action quotient.

The source added, “Since Maa is an emotion-driven story at its crux, the action needs to be contextual and realistic. Keeping that in mind, the action director and Furia are designing the new sequences.”

Kajol keeps saying that she might not watch Maa as horror films scare her-Saiwyn Quadras

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Saiwyn Quadras: She says she won’t watch Maa as horror films scare her

As Kajol attempts her first supernatural movie Maa, writer Saiwyn discusses how the actor has brought gravitas to the role of a Bengali mother in the Vishal Furia-directed venture
Upala KBR (MID-DAY; April 28, 2024)

There is little that Kajol hasn’t done in her three-decade-plus career, from headlining blockbusters to playing grey roles and recently foraying into digital entertainment. Interestingly though, a horror movie was sorely missing from her filmography. Not anymore. The actor is attempting the genre with Chhorii (2021) director Vishal Furia’s next Maa.

Saiwyn Quadras, who has penned the horror fare, says that the movie has its origins in the making of Maidaan. It turns out the conversation began unexpectedly on the sports drama’s set when leading man Ajay Devgn enquired about Quadras’ other projects.

The Maidaan writer recounts, “Ajay sir and I started discussing a few ideas, which we could develop for his banner. He asked me if I had a story in the supernatural space for Kajol. Maa is a purely original horror fare, with a heavy dose of emotions that you wouldn’t expect in a supernatural film. After he liked the concept, he asked me to make Kajol ma’am listen to it. She loved it. It’s the first time that Kajol ma’am is working on a supernatural emotional drama. She keeps saying that she might not watch Maa as horror films scare her.”

Maa, with screenplay by Amil Keeyan Khan of Shaitaan fame, went on floors in Mumbai in February-end, followed by a schedule in Kolkata and parts of West Bengal in March. As Furia conducts the third leg in Mumbai, Quadras says that having seen Kajol in action, he can’t imagine anyone else in the role of a Bengali mom.

“We are making a supernatural movie, but with her around, we are always laughing. Kajol ma’am is a natural in front of the camera. If there is an emotionally intense scene, she [is fully in that moment], and as soon as she hears cut, she is back to cracking jokes and singing songs. The gravitas she brings to the mother’s role is fantastic,” he shares.

Even as he looks forward to Maa, Quadras holds his last work Maidaan close to his heart. “While the expectations from the film were high, the emotional resonance has been rewarding. As writers, we need to be mentioned when films are announced like Amit R Sharma and Boney Kapoor did during Maidaan’s trailer launch. Ajay too announced my name when they launched Maa. Few filmmakers are secure enough to do that.”

Saiwyn Quadras

A unit hand came running to warn me to lock the door, or I could risk getting kidnapped-Amruta Khanvilkar

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Amruta Khanvilkar: ‘On first day, I was told I could be kidnapped’

Amruta Khanvilkar on shooting for Hansal and Jai Mehta’s series, Lootere, during pandemic in crime-infested South Africa
Letty Mariam Abraham (MID-DAY; March 19, 2024)

Amruta Khanvilkar considers it a stroke of luck that she chanced upon Hansal and Jai Mehta’s series Lootere while they were scouting for actors. The pirate thriller not only gave her the opportunity to work with South African actors, but also offered her a strong female character in the male-dominated show. In conversation with mid-day, the actor—who is primarily seen in Marathi projects—talks about the challenges of working in South Africa during the Coronavirus pandemic, and the long wait for the show’s release. Edited excerpts from the interview.

What was the brief given to you?
I was auditioning for a role at the casting director’s office in Andheri, when I learnt that Hansal Mehta is making a series that is being shot internationally with foreign actors. I begged for the audition script. When I read the script, I found it powerful. Later, I met Jai [Mehta, director], who is a young and enthusiastic chap. Lootere is a male-dominated show and he wanted Avika to be someone who wouldn’t spare anyone. She gets married to Vikrant [Vivek Gomber], and hopes that he will help her escape from Somalia. Avika was mentally and physically trapped; that was to reflect in my body language, clothes, even in my eyes.

What was the first day on the set like?
On my first day [of shoot] in South Africa, I was in a vanity van and the door was left open [to combat] the heat. A unit hand came running to warn me to lock the door, or I could risk getting kidnapped. Sometimes, we’d be ready to head to the location, but something would disrupt the shoot. The language was difficult to comprehend, plus this was amid the pandemic. For almost two-and-a-half months, I’d leave my hotel, go for the shoot and come right back to the hotel. I’d go out only when the entire cast and crew did.

Did you manage to do sightseeing?
I remember going out with my DoP [Jall Coswasji] and trying paragliding. By the end of the shoot, we had all become a little homesick. The unit was shooting for over seven months, which is long. It felt longer because we were far, in between COVID waves, and it was trying our patience.

Was it tough to portray a character who feels suffocated?
It gets to you because you are already in a [restricted atmosphere]. We all felt trapped during COVID. Plus, in South Africa, if I had to go somewhere, someone had to be sent with me. So, I took inspiration from that and my surroundings, especially from my first day when I was told I could be kidnapped.

Does the long wait between shoot and release bother you?
The waiting period is the most testing time. I shot about three to four web series two years ago. I shot for a Vishal Furia crime thriller series after I returned from South Africa. [For this interview], I had to call up Jai to give me a recap about it because it has been a while since we shot for this. There is anxiety around a show’s final outcome. As actors, I feel we are paid for the patience we have, not only in terms of money, but also future offers.

Had you heard about the pirate world before doing this series?
We’ve seen this world in international shows; this is the first time it’s being tackled in an Indian series. It was a daring move to shoot such a subject and bring two cultures together. Half the time, they shot on a ship where it’d often get extremely cold, so much so that one couldn’t even touch the metal railings. The people shooting aboard had seen dolphins and whales; they sustained injuries. It wasn’t an easy shoot. I’m glad the boys pulled it off.

How was it interacting with actors from a different culture?
There is a South African officer in the series. He is about six feet in height with a heavy build, but he was gentle and soft-spoken. He is the sweetest person I’ve met. Jai also enjoyed talking to South African actors. Their school of acting is so different; it was a learning opportunity.

Shraddha Kapoor's Naagin put on the backburner?

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Ichchadhaari naagin can’t manifest film?

Sources say Shraddha-led Naagin, which was to roll in summer, put on backburner as it is infeasible amid Bollywood’s dry spell
Mohar Basu (MID-DAY; October 11, 2022)

In late 2020, it was announced that Shraddha Kapoor would play a shape-shifting serpent in the Naagin trilogy, to be helmed by Vishal Furia. For an industry that has enjoyed much success with the theme — be it Sridevi’s Nagina (1986) and Nigahen (1989), or television’s popular show Naagin — the franchise had naturally garnered much interest upon announcement. However, one hears that the movie, which was slated to roll this summer, has now been put on the backburner.

While Furia and Kapoor had started workshops earlier this year, the project is apparently facing budgetary constraints. A trade source says, “Naagin is a VFX-heavy film that was to be made on a massive budget. Given the current dry spell in the market, the makers want to hold the project, and revisit it later. The film was to go on floors in May, but the stakeholders felt it was best to wait it out. If at all, the film will be pursued after Shraddha’s yet-untitled next with Ranbir Kapoor is released.”

mid-day texted Furia, who didn’t respond till press time.

Chhorii director Vishal Furia to roll Shraddha Kapoor-starrer Naagin this summer

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Vishal Furia: Shraddha Kapoor liked the concept and came on board

Upala KBR (MID-DAY; March 3, 2022)

Keen to reinvent the genre of shape-shifting serpent movies in Bollywood, Chhorii director Vishal Furia has kickstarted the prep for Naagin. The filmmaker reveals that the Shraddha Kapoor-starrer — a trilogy — will be VFX heavy; and is currently in pre-production. The team plans to recce multiple locations in India.

“We need specific locations for Naagin, as the energy of [shooting] in natural locales has an effect on the actors’ performance,” says the director, who hopes to start shooting this summer once Kapoor fulfils her earlier commitments.

Furia, who just wrapped up the Vikrant Massey-starrer Forensic, says that it didn’t take long to convince Kapoor to come aboard the project. “Shraddha liked the concept and came on board after just one meeting. We have had a few sittings over the script and looks. She is loving the process. We intend to have workshops for Naagin. It is an unusual character and will need a lot of prep.”

In the past, actors like Reena Roy, Rekha and Sridevi have played the supernatural character. But Furia insists that his film will deliver a “different treatment”. “Naagin is kind of based on that mythological character that we have earlier seen in films, yet it has been differently treated this time.”

The filmmaker believes that women-centric films make stories interesting. “Writing a story for a male protagonist vis-a-vis adapting it to a female actor, suddenly changes the story’s dynamics. It is interesting to cast actors like Nushrratt [Bharuccha] and Shraddha against the grain, [especially] if they are willing to go the extra mile. When an actor surrenders to the role and trusts the director completely to take the role to a different level, it is gratifying,” adds Furia.

He credits producer Nikhil Dwivedi for the concept of Naagin. “He bounced the concept off me and I found it amazing. I come from a background of VFX, so anything that has this level of special effects, excites me.”

Swwapnil Joshi-starrer Bali to skip theatrical release; will premiere on Amazon Prime on December 9

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Amazon Prime Video today, that is December 1, 2021, announced the global release of the Marathi horror thriller Bali, starring one of Marathi cinema’s most revered actors Swwapnil Joshi, along with Pooja Sawant and Samarth Jadhav. Helmed by acclaimed filmmaker Vishal Furia, (director of Lapachhapi and its recent Hindi remake, Chhorii), and produced by Arjun Singgh Baran and Kartk D Nishandar’s Global Sports Entertainment and Media Solutions Private Limited (GSEAMS), Bali is set to premiere on Prime Video on December 9 in India and in more than 240 countries and territories worldwide.

Bali is about a widowed, middle-class father, Shrikant (Swwapnil Joshi), whose life takes an unexpected turn when his 7-year-old son Mandar (Samarth Jadhav) collapses and is referred to a Jan Sanjeevani hospital for a detailed diagnosis. Things change when Mandar starts talking to a mysterious nurse, who he claims is staying in the abandoned part of the hospital.

“Amazon Prime Video has always strived to bring its viewers content that stand out in terms of storytelling, layered narratives, and compelling performances,” said Manish Menghani, head of acquisition, India content, Amazon Prime Video. “Following the love that consumers have showered on Chhorii, we are thrilled to continue our association with Vishal Furia, who is attempting to redefine the horror genre in India. With a stellar cast, including Swwapnil Joshi, Bali adds further value to our ever-expanding language content portfolio.”

Director Vishal Furia added, “As a genre, I have been drawn to horror and it’s been my constant effort to break new ground with every film in this space. The best kind of horror films are psychological, which create empathy for characters despite their basic premise being far from reality. The more we believe what we are watching, the more immersive the experience becomes. This is exactly what Bali is about, dealing with a gamut of emotions, fear being the biggest among them all. I would like to thank producers Arjun and Kartk for believing in the work I do. After the overwhelming response to Chhorii, I am looking forward to audiences’ reaction to this film upon its release on Amazon Prime Video.”

Producers Arjun Singgh Baran and Kartk D Nishandar of GSEAMS stated, “There is no denying that horror as a genre appeals to a vast expanse of audience. However, it calls for a lot of authenticity and precision in the narrative to become a success. With Bali, our attempt has always been to present new-age content that is immersive and appealing to the audiences. We are extremely thrilled that we will be able to take this story, steered by director Vishal Furia, who specializes in this genre, and woven with brilliant performances by versatile actors like Swwapnil Joshi and Pooja Sawant, to a global audience through Amazon Prime Video.”

Bali will join the thousands of TV shows and movies from Hollywood and Bollywood in the Amazon Prime Video catalogue. These include Indian-produced Amazon Original series Mumbai Diaries 26/11, The Family Man, Comicstaan, Breathe: Into The Shadows, Bandish Bandits, Paatal Lok, Mirzapur, The Forgotten Army – Azaadi Ke Liye, Sons Of The Soil: Jaipur Pink Panthers, Four More Shots Please, Made In Heaven, and Inside Edge; Indian films such as Shershaah, Toofaan, Sherni, Coolie No 1, Unpaused, Gulabo Sitabo, Durgamati, Chhalaang, Shakuntala Devi, Sarpatta Parambarai, Putham Pudhu Kaalai, Soorari Potru, Ponmagal Vandhal, French Biriyani, Law, Sufiyum Sujatayum, Penguin, Nishabdham, Maara, V, C U Soon, Bheema Sena Nala Maharaja, Drishyam 2, Halal Love Story, Middle Class Melodies, Hello Charlie, Malik, and Narappa, among others, and award-winning and critically acclaimed global Amazon Originals like Cinderella, Without Remorse, The Tomorrow War, Borat Subsequent Moviefilm, The Wheel Of Time, Tom Clancy's Jack Ryan, The Boys, Hunters, Cruel Summer, Fleabag, and The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel. All this is available at no extra cost for Amazon Prime members. The service includes titles in Hindi, Marathi, Gujarati, Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, Malayalam, Punjabi, and Bengali.

Prime members will be able to watch Bali anywhere and anytime on the Prime Video app for smart TVs, mobile devices, Fire TV, Fire TV stick, Fire tablets, Apple TV, etc. In the Prime Video app, Prime members can download episodes on their mobile devices and tablets and watch anywhere offline at no additional cost. Prime Video is available in India at no extra cost with Prime membership for just ₹999 annually or ₹129 monthly, new customers can find out more at www.amazon.in/prime and subscribe to a free 30-day trial.

Vikrant Massey and Radhika Apte understand the demand of the story and give me a balanced performance-Vishal Furia

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Anatomy of a crime

Forensic director on how Vikrant-Radhika film has little in common with popular series CSI despite belonging to same genre
Mohar Basu (MID-DAY; September 8, 2021)

Over its 15-season run, American series CSI: Crime Scene Investigation garnered immense love from the Indian as well as global audience. Vishal Furia’s next, Forensic, could well be Bollywood’s foray into the genre of forensic procedural. The director, who is currently shooting in Uttarakhand with leads Vikrant Massey and Radhika Apte, admits that it’s a tough genre to attempt.

“In a day and age when your audience is more evolved and film-literate, it’s upon writers and filmmakers to make sure they are at the top of their game. We have tried to make the story pacy, and yet, keep the emotions authentic. Thankfully, I have Radhika and Vikrant who elevate the script. They understand the demand of the story and give me a balanced performance each time they are on camera.”

The film — produced by Mansi Bagla and Deepak Mukut — marks Furia’s reunion with Massey after Criminal Justice (2019).

Though Forensic belongs to the same universe as CSI that revolved around a team of crime-scene investigators, the director says he hasn’t turned to the popular series for inspiration. “The treatment is similar, but I have to be honest to my film. It’s important that we give the story a fresh perspective.”

Check out the intense look of Pooja Sawant in the new poster of Bali

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One of the most beautiful and talented actresses in the Marathi film industry, Pooja Sawant, is all set to impress her fans once again with her appearance in the forthcoming Marathi film Bali. Pooja is playing a doctor in this horror flick.

Produced by Arjun Singgh Baran and Kartik D Nishandar of GSEAMS (Global Sports Entertainment and Media Solutions Private Limited), Bali is all set to release on April 16. Bali has been directed by Vishal Furia, and features Marathi superstar Swwapnil Joshi in key role.

Known for her rom-coms and dramatic films, Pooja Sawant has been featured against one of the most successful actors from the film industry, Swwapnil Joshi. Bali is her second film with director Vishal Furia after Lapachhapi, which was applauded by audience and critics as well. Producer GSEAMS released a fresh poster of the film featuring Pooja holding a stethoscope in her hand and giving an intense look.

Speaking about her role in Bali, Pooja says, “Yes, I am a part of Vishal’s second Marathi film as well. It is always great to work with a director who has a clear vision and knows what he is upto. Being part of the film is icing on the cake as I am sharing the screen with Swwapnil Joshi for the first time. I always wanted to work with Swwapnil, one of the most talented actors from the industry.”

"It has been a great experience working for Bali, for two reasons. Firstly, Vishal is a director who knows how to carve out 100% of the capacity of the actors he is working with and secondly, the role I am playing in the film. The character of the doctor I am playing is equally important and an integral part of the story. Like his first successful thriller Lapachhapi, Vishal has done a fabulous job as a director. Believing his directorial ability witnessed myself during making of Lapachhapi, I immediately said yes to him when Vishal asked for this film,” the actress said.

Pooja has proved her talent by playing characters with different shades in the films like Kshanabhar Vishranti, Dagdi Chawl, Bonus, Subhash Ghai’s Hindi film Vijeta among others.

Talking about Bali, Pooja said, “I am someone who, even during daytime, will watch a horror movie with all windows and doors of the house open! But after Lapachhapi, things have changed a bit. I have not only gained confidence to work in the horror films but have also started enjoying watching them. Lapachhapi was a turning point in my film career.”

GSEAMS releases teaser of their much-awaited horror film Bali, starring Swwapnil Joshi

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Producers Arjun Singgh Baran and Kartk D Nishandar of GSEAMS (Global Sports Entertainment and Media Solutions Private Limited) have released teaser of their upcoming Marathi film Bali today. All set to be released on April 16, Bali has been directed by Vishal Furia, and features Marathi superstar Swwapnil Joshi in a key role.

The teaser adds to the horror value as a woman is seen calling and hunting for someone in an old structured hospital. Also the tagline ‘Who is Elizabeth?’ is intriguing. In short, the 47 second long teaser manages to create the desired impact

The much talked about horror drama is produced by GSEAMS, the producers of many hit films such as Mogra Phulaalaa, Bonus and the web series Samantar 1 and 2 and Naxalbari. Furia had shot to fame by his hit thriller Lapachhapi, released three years ago.

“We received overwhelming response to our two posters released earlier. The audience has been enquiring about the releases of the film. There could be no alternative to Vishal Furia when it comes to the horror thriller. The icing on the cake is Swwapnil Joshi who is playing the lead role in the film. Thus, every aspect to the film comes with a glory of its own. We can assure that the film will give its audience an unprecedented and different experience,” said Arjun Singgh Baran and Kartk D Nishandar of GSEAMS.

Director Vishal Furia, who shot to fame with his first horror Marathi film Lapachhapi three years ago, said, “I can assure the audience that Bali will be more entertaining than Lapacchapi. The teaser we released is the testimony to this claim. Besides having a high standard of production in every aspect, the actors in the film have given their best for the film. Producers have ensured that they give their best on every front making this film one of the best in Marathi film industry. I am sure that we together could 'scare' the audience and make them enjoy it.”

After Lapachhapi, Furia directed two web-series, Criminal Justice (2019) and Bombers (2019). GSEAMS has many films to its credit as producer and include Vicky Velingkar (2019), Fugay (2017), Bhikari (2017) and Mogra Phulaalaa (2019), Tula Kalnnaar Nahi (2017) among others.

The poster of Swwapnil Joshi’s horror flick Bali is terrifying

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Producers Arjun Singgh Baran and Kartk D Nishandar of GSEAMS (Global Sports Entertainment and Media Solutions Private Limited) yesterday released a new poster of their upcoming film Bali. All set to be released on April 16 in CINEMAS, Bali has been directed by Vishal Furia, while Swwapnil Joshi is in key role in the film. The poster released recently takes the curiosity about the film to greater level.

The poster released recently has Swwapnil’s face with his scary reaction on it. His face is held forcefully by an unknown person, with the stains of the blood sipping on Swwapnil’s face. The fireballs in Swwapnil’s eyes makes the situation very terrifying. The poster also poses a question, ‘Who is Elizabeth.’ The poster indicates the fact that the film is all set to give goosebumps to audience in the theatres on its release.

The much talked about horror drama is produced by GSEAMS, the producers of many hit films such as Mogra Phulaalaa, Bonus and web series Samantar and Naxalbari. Furia had shot to the fame by his hit thriller Lapachhapi, released three years ago.

GSEAMS has many films to its credit as producer and include Vicky Velingkar (2019), Fugay (2017), Bhikari (2017) and Mogra Phulaalaa (2019), Tula Kalnnaar Nahi (2017) among others. After Lapachhapi, Furia directed two web-series, Criminal Justice (2019) and Bombers (2019).

Releasing films right now is a catch-22 situation; no one knows what will happen-Swwapnil Joshi

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Mihir Bhanage (BOMBAY TIMES; March 6, 2021)

In the last few weeks, there have been announcements of a slate of theatrical releases from Bollywood, and the Marathi industry. The latest to join the list is the Swwapnil Joshi starrer Bali. While there have already been a few releases since the cinema halls reopened in the state, this will be the first big Marathi film with a leading star from the industry to hit the screens. Swwapnil says, “I am excited that we are doing this and am elated to be a part of this phase for cinemas.”

In the days following the government’s nod to reopen cinemas after the Coronavirus induced lockdown phase, many filmmakers were waiting to see what the reaction from viewers would be. Ask Swwapnil what prompted them to decide on the release in April, and he shares, “Someone needs to take a step forward. I feel bigger producers have the power to draw viewers to the screens and the moolah to back their films in such trying times. That’s why we decided to take the plunge.”

The Duniyadari actor was one of the first ones from the industry to begin work post the lockdown restrictions was eased. Talking about how it felt to work in the new normal, Swwapnil says, “It was a disturbing and uncertain phase for all of us. Everyone involved in a creative process likes to be in control of the situation. But COVID-19 was something none of us expected to hit everyone so hard. Whether we’d be shooting or not the next day would be confirmed only the previous night. That said, though it was an emotionally stressful time, we managed to sail through.”

Swwapnil has been experimenting with various genres in the recent past. However, his audience is used to watching him in romantic or dramatic roles, which is why he tries to bring an essence of those in whatever he does. “Bali is predominantly a horror film, but there will be some family drama involved in it. We are essentially combining director Vishal Furia’s forte — horror — with mine — drama,” he says.

Swwapnil believes that the next few months will be about testing waters for the film industry. “It’s going to be a process of re-learning for all of us,” he says. The actor adds that there’s no answer to what the coming period looks like for the field of cinema. He shares, “It’s a game of wait and watch. Depending on the kind of response, filmmakers are going to have to clean their slates of pre-corona observations and guidelines, and write new rules for the new normal. That said, I feel entertainment is a basic need for every person and it will gradually return to the way it has always been.”

Marathi horror film Bali’s motion poster out; makers also announce release date

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The motion poster of the much awaited Marathi horror film Bali was released today. It is directed by Vishal Furia and stars Swwapnil Joshi in the lead role. The makers also announced with this poster that the film is all set to release in CINEMAS all over Maharashtra on April 16, 2021.

The motion poster consists of Swwapnil’s fearful face. A horrifying background score plays while blood begins to trickle down his forehead. Images of red-coloured cross can be seen in his eyes. And then the tagline, कोण आहे एलिझाबेथ (Who is Elizabeth) appears below. All these aspects make for a great watch. Despite being just 15 seconds long, the motion poster manages to leave a tremendous impact.

Bali is produced by GSEAMS, the producers of many hit films such as Mogra Phulaalaa, Bonus and also the web series Samantar and Naxalbari. Vishal Furia had shot to fame by his hit thriller Lapachhapi, released three years ago. He also directed the popular web series Criminal Justice with Tigmanshu Dhulia.

Speaking about the film, director Vishal Furia said, "Lapachhapi was well received by the Marathi audience proving that they love the horror genre. Hence, I really want to continue making horror films for the Marathi audience and this is another such attempt.” He also added, “With a star like Swwapnil Joshi on board, who has been loved by the audience, and maverick producers Arjun Singgh Baran and Kartik D Nishandar backing my second horror film, Bali will prove to be much scarier and thrilling than Lapachhapi. I feel Swapnil’s talent as an actor has not been explored fully till date. And after meeting him, I was confident that he would be fit for this role. Plus, he’s a star and that will help our film reach the masses as well.”
 
Excited about the film, Swwapnil Joshi said, "I had promised the audience of the Marathi film that I would explore a new genre this year. This film is a small step taken by me in that direction. I am very happy to get into the horror space. I am happy that I have got an opportunity to do it with my favourite people like Arjun and Kartik, and my favorite director in this field, Vishal. I am sure that we together could scare the audience and make them enjoy it."
 
He added, “If you think of it, barring Vishal’s Lapachhapi, the Marathi industry has never had horror films per se. There were horror comedies, but not films that gave you sleepless nights. I think Bali will fill that void. What’s more interesting is that the film’s story induces fear and not the usual jump-scares or loud music that Indian horror films try to scare people.”
 
“We are happy to venture into a new genre with Bali. And who better than Vishal Furia to direct this horror film? Lapachhapi is considered as one of the best horror films in recent times. We also have one of the top actors of the Marathi industry, Swwapnil Joshi, in the lead. Even for him, this is an opportunity to explore a different genre,” says producers Arjun Singgh Baran and Kartk D Nishandar from GSEAMS.

I broke down on Chhori's sets yesterday while shooting for an intense scene-Nushrratt Bharuccha

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Nushrratt Bharuccha
Nushrratt Bharuccha talks about how shooting for Chhori, which tackles age-old societal beliefs, has been emotionally taxing
Uma Ramasubramanian (MID-DAY; December 18, 2020)

After winning praise for her act in Chhalaang, Nushrratt Bharuccha has shifted gears to horror with Chhori. The movie, directed by Vishal Furia, is adapted from his Marathi hit Lapachhapi (2017), which had a pregnant woman driving the narrative. Shooting for the film that addresses age-old societal beliefs and practices hasn't been emotionally easy for the actor.

"I broke down on the sets yesterday while shooting for an intense scene. When the director said cut, he was surprised to see me crying and came running to check on me. I don't know whether it was exhaustion of the past many months or simply my emotions [getting the better of me], but I couldn't stop crying," reveals Bharuccha.

Though she is thrilled to add a horror mystery to her resume, the actor admits she can't sit through films belonging to the genre. "Whenever a scary scene is playing out, I cover my eyes. I want to know the story and how it ends, but I can't handle the scary visuals. So, it was a huge challenge for me to pick Chhori."

Shraddha Kapoor to play Bollywood’s new-age naagin

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BOMBAY TIMES (October 28, 2020)

After impressive performances in films like Stree (2018) and Chhichhore (2019), Shraddha Kapoor is all set to play one of Bollywood’s iconic roles, which is deep-rooted in our Indian folklore. She has signed her next — a three-film series based on the shape-shifting naagin, a role that has been revolutionised by several top actresses of their times. Previously, Vyjayanthimala, Reena Roy, Rekha and Sridevi have played similar roles. In fact, Sridevi’s role as an ichhadhaari naagin in Nagina (1986) and Nigahen (1989) got her cult status in filmdom. For Shraddha, too, this could be her career-defining role. In Bollywood, naagins were the first characters with superpower from our own folklore, catering to a pan-India audience.

Talking about the yet-untitled film, which will be helmed by Vishal Furia (who directed the critically acclaimed 2017 Marathi film Lapachhapi), Shraddha says, “It’s an absolute delight to play a naagin on screen. I have grown up watching, admiring and idolising Sridevi ma’am in Nagina and Nigahen and always wanted to play a similar role that is rooted in Indian folklore.”

The film, produced by Nikhil Dwivedi, which is essentially a love story, will be mounted with some exciting visual effects and will be made into a trilogy.

Criminal Justice 2: Justice delayed, not denied?

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After March stint was called off due to Coronavirus pandemic, sources say Kirti Kulhari-Pankaj Tripathi resumed Criminal Justice 2 shoot in Mira Road last month to meet November release
Mohar Basu (MID-DAY; September 18, 2020)

A positive response to the first season of Criminal Justice, headlined by Vikrant Massey, paved the way for the second edition with Kirti Kulhari in the lead. With several projects having gone on floors in the past few weeks, it is learnt that the unit of the Disney+ Hotstar series too reported to the set last month and has managed to complete the principal photography. Sources say the patchwork for the crime thriller is currently underway.

While the first instalment was helmed by Tigmanshu Dhulia and Vishal Furia, Rohan Sippy and Arjun Mukherjee have picked up the directorial baton this time around. A source reveals, "We had initially kicked off the shoot in March, but had to call it off due to the Coronavirus pandemic. The latest stint was conducted across Vasai and Mira Road, with few portions filmed at Grant Road. The team will hopefully complete the dubbing and post-production in October so that the series can drop online by early November." Pankaj Tripathi reprises his role as advocate Madhav Mishra who provides legal counsel to Kulhari's character who is accused of killing her abusive husband.

Disney+ Hotstar remained unavailable for comment.

I have to scare the viewers, make them emotional and laugh too-Nushrratt Bharuccha

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Nushrratt Bharuccha on her first horror film; admits she was petrified when she stepped out after three months of lockdown for dubbing
Akash Bhatnagar (MUMBAI MIRROR; July 17, 2020)

Unlock 1.0 may have changed the routine of many, but Nushrratt Bharuccha is staying home. “My unlock has been locked. I only went for some urgent dubbing and since I was out, I got myself a coffee, but carried my own mug,” she shares.

The actress lives in a building which opens to a beach. But while other residents have been chilling there all this time, she did not venture out due to the Coronavirus lockdown. “Now, I have started going there on some days, but only till the gate. The only thing I would risk stepping outside for is work and that is not happening right now,” she sighs.

Nushrratt admits that while she was excited to go for dubbing, she asked her driver about 50 times if the car had been sanitised before getting in, and on reaching the studio, was petrified of walking into a building which was not her own. “I saw people who weren’t my family and that was scary. Even when I met people who were familiar, I showed my excitement from afar,” she reminisces. Inside, she refused to sit on the sofa until she was assured that it had been sanitised. “My director asked me if I was going on a space mission since I was covered from head to toe,” she laughs. Ask her what was the dubbing for, and she turns mum, not prepared to announce it just yet.

During the lockdown, the actress had announced her next, Chhori, a remake of the Marathi horror film Lapachhapi, with Vishal Furia, who directed the original, returning to helm the Hindi adaptation. This is the first film that Nushrratt will lead from the front and she is terrified. “I haven’t ever done a role where I’m responsible for every emotion in the film. I have to scare the viewers, make them emotional and laugh too. The film revolves around this one person stuck in a situation. But I’m excited to be the makers’ first choice,” she exults.

To prep for her role, the actress has been working on gaining weight to look like a pregnant girl. “Soon, Vishal will give me the first draft of the script and then we will be able to crack it,” she informs, adding that there is no plan on when the film will go on floors and she’s not complaining.

Right now, she’s not even ready for a photo-shoot. “You have to touch everything around because you can’t do one with gloves on and I can’t see myself doing that,” she rues, admitting that even visits to salons are strictly out of question for now, as also gyms. “I will buy all the equipment and open a gym in my building,” she quips.

And what’s the status quo on the sequel to her 2018 comedy, Sonu Ke Titu Ki Sweety? She is clueless on its progress, but sure has some ideas for Part 2. “Now, I can finally tell the makers to make someone else the antagonist. They owe me that,” she laughs, admitting that she is sure that by the interval, they will have her convinced to switch roles again. “They are used to having me as the bad girl. If I am not the villain, the audience won’t watch the flim.”

Nushrat Bharucha bags Chhori, Hindi remake of Marathi horror film Lapachhapi

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Nushrat Bharucha
Mohar Basu (MID-DAY; May 29, 2020)

A still from Lapachhapi After a string of comedies, Nushrat Bharucha is ready to try her hand at horror with Chhori, the Hindi remake of the 2017 Marathi hit, Lapachhapi. The film marks the first collaboration of Abundantia Entertainment and Crypt TV, the American entertainment company that specialises in horror outings.

With a pregnant woman at the centre of the narrative, Lapachhapi deftly weaves a tale of terror that addresses social evils. "This genre excites me, and the story is impactful as it is anchored in the practices of our society. Abundantia is known to make films with strong female voices. As an actor, I couldn't ask for more," says Bharucha.

Director Vishal Furia says he is honoured that Jack Davis, co-founder, Crypt TV, chose his Marathi offering for an adaptation. "I want to take the remake a few steps further and make it more thrilling. Partnering with Vikram [Malhotra] and Jack has been a wonderful process," says Furia, who has also helmed Criminal Justice.

Salman Khan and Shah Rukh Khan had agreed to come together. It almost happened-Nikhil Dwivedi

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Hiren Kotwani (MUMBAI MIRROR; December 20, 2019)

After Veere Di Wedding (2018), Nikhil Dwivedi is all set for Dabangg 3, which opens today. He is producing the third instalment of the cop franchise with the Khan brothers, Salman and Arbaaz, and admits that movie-making has turned into a collaboration today. “As a producer, one wants to acquire good scripts and established franchises. Dabangg is one of the most successful franchises and it’s kind of Salman and Arbaaz to let me be a part of it. A producer can’t ask for a bigger set-up,” he avers.

Earlier this year, Nikhil was also bringing Salman and Shah Rukh Khan together for a film which Sanjay Leela Bhansali was to direct. Quiz him on the subject and he confirms the project, saying, “Yes, it almost happened. Both SRK and SK had agreed to come together, we were excited about it. But I believe Mr Bhansali wasn’t very happy with the second half of the script and wanted more time to work on it.” Since then, Salman and SLB have had a fallout, right before their 20-year reunion, Inshallah, was to go on the floors. Bhansali has since moved to Gangubai Kathiawadi with Alia Bhatt while Radhe will be Salman’s Eid 2020 release. Is the film likely to be revived in future? “I have my doubts,” he sighs.

Next up, he has an Anurag Kashyap-directed woman-centric revenge-drama, along with a superheroine franchise, Naagin, whch will be directed by Vishal Furia and an adapatation of the book, Battle For Bittora, with his Veere Di Wedding co-producer Rhea Kapoor. There’s also the Abhinav Bindra biopic, featuring Anil Kapoor and son Harsh Varrdhan. Point out that Harsh hasn’t had a good run at the box-office and Nikhil reasons, “He has done just two films and is passionate about his craft. He’ll make his way up soon.”

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