New Delhi: The film industry is abuzz with excitement as the much-acclaimed folk horror film, Tumbbad, is set to return to theaters on the 13th of September. The re-release comes with a gripping trailer that has left audiences in awe, sparking a wave of nostalgia for the cinematic masterpiece. Tumbbad, a unique blend of horror and fantasy, offers a stark glimpse into a fictional, mythological village, and promises to enthrall viewers once again.
The anticipation surrounding the re-release is further fueled by actor Sohum Shah, who has taken to social media to share unseen images of the eerie character ‘Hastar’. These images provide fans with an intimate look into the arduous journey of the character’s creation and the unmatched efforts that went into crafting what eventually materialized on the big screen.
Among the shared images were shots of Hastar’s initial design. Originally, Hastar was black rather than the terrifying red hue that viewers eventually saw in the final cut of Tumbbad. Early prototypes depicted a creature without a womb, drastically different from the concoction of horror that struck fear into the hearts of audiences. The transformation from black to red was a significant decision made by the production team, who felt that the character did not reach the terrifying standards they had set. This led them to reshoot the scene, constantly refining until they achieved the visceral effect they desired.
Sohum Shah’s revelations highlight the extreme difficulty and numerous tests the team went through to perfect the character. The commitment to quality was evident, as the entire sequence, even after being shot and edited, was discarded when it failed to meet the envisioned standards. This pursuit of perfection eventually paid off, making Hastar one of the most memorable horror figures in Bollywood.
Tumbbad’s journey to critical acclaim is as dramatic as the plot it portrays. At the 64th Filmfare Awards, it earned an impressive eight nominations and won three for Best Cinematography, Best Art Direction, and Best Sound Design. This recognition was a testament to the film’s technical brilliance and creative storytelling. Additionally, Tumbbad made history as the first Indian film to premiere in the Critics’ Week section of the 75th Venice International Film Festival, further cementing its place in cinematic excellence.
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Directed by Rahi Anil Barve, Tumbbad sees Anand Gandhi as the creative director and Adesh Prasad as the co-director. The film’s screenplay, crafted by Mitesh Shah, Prasad, Barve, and Gandhi, unfolds a story that’s both terrifying and captivating. The producers, Sohum Shah, Aanand L. Rai, Mukesh Shah, and Amita Shah, have been instrumental in bringing this vision to life. The stellar cast includes Sohum Shah, who plays a pivotal role, alongside Jyoti Malshe and Anita Date-Kelkar.
Tumbbad’s re-release offers a rare opportunity for audiences to experience the film once again on the big screen, especially since it isn’t available on any OTT platforms. This exclusivity adds to the allure, making the theatrical screening a must-watch for both new viewers and those who wish to dive back into its chilling narrative.
The storyline of Tumbbad revolves around mythological folklore, exploring themes of greed and the insatiable human desire for wealth. The village of Tumbbad houses a secret that the protagonist, played by Sohum Shah, unravels, leading him to encounter Hastar, a mythical creature cursed by the gods. The atmospheric visuals, haunting soundtrack, and intricate art direction weave a tapestry that’s both enthralling and terrifying.
As the re-release date approaches, the excitement continues to build. Fans are eager to revisit the dark, rain-drenched world of Tumbbad and encounter Hastar in his full glory once more. The film’s return to theaters is not just nostalgic but also a celebration of a cinematic milestone that pushed the boundaries of Indian horror and folklore storytelling.
In conclusion, Tumbbad’s re-release is a significant event in the cinematic calendar. The unseen images of Hastar shared by Sohum Shah add depth to the film’s legacy, illustrating the relentless dedication of the team behind it. As audiences prepare to immerse themselves in the haunting world of Tumbbad once again, the film’s re-emergence promises to be as spellbinding as its original release.
