Vikram Bhatt says he believes in staying true to his stories and does not add naach gaana to make his films a hit. The director speaks to Karan Bhardwaj about his latest movie featuring seven new actors
If in 80s Ramsay Brothers ruled the roost with their spooky tales, it is Vikram Bhatt in our times who has revived the fascination with horror sagas. Over the last 10 years, he has successfully helmed movies like Raaz, 1920, Haunted 3D, Shaapit, Raaz 3D. The genre was forgotten in 90s but got a fresh lease of life with Bhatt’s blockbusters. “Every director has a unique style. Some sell comedy, some action. I am into horror. I am also obsessed with supernatural stories. In the age of branding, everyone needs to brand themselves in certain way. I have competence in horror and thrill,” said the filmmaker.
His latest offering Horror Story doesn’t have songs or other frills. “Young people often object to gana bajana and unnecessary romance in horror films. They want stories to be told in Western style. So I have made Horror Story in Hollywood style. It assures spine-chilling moments from beginning to the end. We have introduced a lot of new talent through this film and they have done a fabulous job. The film is set to give the audience an edge-of-the-seat experience,” he shared.
Horror Story is about seven folks who challenge each other to spend the night at the infamous hotel in the city. However, the idea of having fun turns out to be frightening.
Most of Bhatt’s flicks don’t have big stars. The director says stars’ presence kills the thrill. “Horror stories don’t need them. My agenda is to scare people which may not happen with superstars,” he candidly confessed. Bhatt also pointed out the expanding market for horror films. His 1920 and Raaz series have been hugely successful. “Audience of horror movies is loyal. They just want films which are true to the genre. I believe more people are wanting to go for such films. My past successes prove that point,” he said. Asked if he believes in ghosts, he made the confession. “I am scared of even rats, leave alone dark and strange things. During the shoot of Raaz in Ooty, I walked away from the crew to smoke. Suddenly I realised I was sitting on a grave. I ran like a mad man but didn’t share anything with the crew people,” said Bhatt.
What’s keeping him away from comediesIJ “I did it long back. What deters me from doing comedy is that there are many people trying it out. I have never wanted to follow other people or do films just for money,” he said adding that commercial success matters for him. “If you are commercially viable, you are not questioned in the industry. It allows you to experiment and follow your vision. But I don’t believe in creating money-spinners,” he says.
Bhatt started his career in 1992 with his first movie Jaanam. After spending sufficient time in the industry, he feels satisfied. “A lot of people who started with me do not exist in the industry anymore. I am fortunate that I am still working, doing good work,” he concluded.