‘Tumbbad,’ the 2018 Hindi-language folk horror film directed by Rahi Anil Barve and creatively spearheaded by Anand Gandhi, is poised to make a grand re-entrance into theaters on September 13. Acclaimed for its eerie blend of horror and fantasy, this re-release promises to offer both devoted fans and new viewers an opportunity to reacquaint themselves with the chilling yet captivating narrative that previously gripped audiences.
Recently, the film’s lead actor, Sohum Shah, who portrays Vinayak Rao, created a buzz on social media by sharing the poster of ‘Tumbbad’ on his Instagram feed. The response was overwhelming, with netizens expressing their excitement and anticipation. One notable comment came from actor Vijay Varma, who succinctly praised, “What a film!”. It appears the film’s re-release is more than just a nostalgic trip; it’s an event that rekindles Tumbbad’s magic in a more immersive theatrical setting.
To provide context for those yet uninitiated, ‘Tumbbad’ weaves a mythical narrative centered around the fictional village of the same name. The story is set against a backdrop steeped in supernatural horror, underscored by the destructive nature of greed. The screenplay, written by Mitesh Shah, Adesh Prasad, Rahi Anil Barve, and Anand Gandhi, artfully marries folklore with an engulfing sense of dread, creating a cinematic experience that is both enthralling and unsettling.
First released in 2018, ‘Tumbbad’ not only struck a chord with audiences but also garnered critical acclaim. The film secured eight nominations at the 64th Filmfare Awards and clinched three honors: Best Cinematography, Best Art Direction, and Best Sound Design. Critics lauded its innovative story, the atmospheric and historically rich production design, and Pankaj Kumar’s remarkable cinematography that brought the imaginary village to visceral life.
A testament to its global appeal, ‘Tumbbad’ was the inaugural Indian film to be showcased in the Critics’ Week Section of the renowned 75th Venice International Film Festival. The movie’s international recognition further amplified the attention to its standout performances, particularly by Sohum Shah, along with the compelling enactments by Jyoti Malshe and Anita Date-Kelkar. These layers of talent contributed to the evocative and haunting essence of the film, cementing it as a genre-defining work of art.
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Reflecting on the impact of ‘Tumbbad,’ Sohum Shah expressed profound gratitude for the way the film catapulted his career. “Tumbbad was not just a great script but a great work of art in the sense that all that we imagined while shooting is what we were able to bring onscreen. The movie played a huge role in boosting my career, I didn’t just manage to impress fans in the nation but also got global recognition. I still receive praises for my role in the film. There are International acclaims that I have got all because of this wonderful film that I am thankful for having worked in,” said Shah in a previous interview.
As the cinematic treasure prepares for its grand return to theaters, the timing is particularly opportune. Unlike many films which find a second life on streaming platforms, ‘Tumbbad’ will not be available on any OTT services in 2024. Therefore, the forthcoming re-release on September 13, 2024, represents the best—and possibly the only—opportunity to experience the film in its intended format on the big screen.
The buzz around the re-release underscores a broader cultural moment where audiences are increasingly drawn to films that offer more than just momentary thrills but leave an enduring impact. ‘Tumbbad,’ with its intricately layered narrative, haunting visuals, and rich mythology, stands as a film that demands and rewards repeated viewings. This re-release thus becomes more than a simple cinematic offering—it morphs into a ritualistic return to a world of forbidden treasures and cautionary tales.
In summary, the re-release of ‘Tumbbad’ is set to be a noteworthy event for lovers of horror and fantasy films. It offers a rare chance to revisit—or discover for the first time—the depths of its eerie mythology and unforgettable storytelling. As anticipation builds, cinema-goers are advised to circle September 13, 2024, on their calendars for a renewed journey into the heart of Tumbbad’s wicked allure.
