Filmmaker Vikram Bhatt, who is currently basking in the success of the
horror thriller Haunted 3D: Echoes of the Past, expressed his gratitude
in a note on Monday.
Recalling the many challenges, setbacks and personal struggles he faced
while bringing the project to life, Bhatt wrote on Instagram, “Two and a half
years ago, Haunted 3D: Echoes of the Past began as just another film.
Born of the success of 1920: Horrors of the Heart, and like every new
film, it was built on hope, excitement, and the belief that the road ahead
would be easier,” Bhatt wrote on Instagram.
“Ten days into the shoot, money ran out. Most films would have died
here. Not this one,” he noted.
“We borrowed money on interest, negotiated with vendors, and somehow
kept the cameras rolling. Every day felt like a balancing act – keeping the
film alive and keeping the wolves from the door. Just when things seemed to
stabilize, production challenges arrived. Then post-production challenges. Then
VFX challenges. Every problem that could have appeared seemed determined to
find its way to us,” Bhatt further explained.
Recalling the obstacles he faced while making Haunted, Bhatt
revealed that he spent 75 days in prison before the film was completed.
“My wife and I were arrested on allegations that I maintain were false.
I spent 75 days in prison while Haunted sat unfinished. The film waited
while interest accumulated on borrowed money.”
“At one point, sitting in prison, I made a phone call and suggested that
the film be released without me. The answer that came back from Mr. Anand
Pandit has stayed with me ever since. No Vikram Bhatt, no film release,” Bhatt
added.
“When I returned to Mumbai, I discovered that the post-production had
stalled. Together with people who refused to abandon the project, we worked
eighteen and twenty-hour days, doing whatever was necessary to bring the film
to completion,” Bhatt said.
Bhatt further shared that a last-minute legal challenge threatened the
film’s release. However, despite a limited theatrical rollout after receiving
clearance, it went on to connect with audiences.
“In the end, all I wanted was for the world to meet Haunted.And when it
finally did, That was enough. That was everything,” Bhatt signed off.
The supernatural thriller stars Mahaakshay Chakraborty, Chetna Pande and
Hemant Pandey in pivotal roles.
Haunted 3D: Echoes of the Past follows Dev (Mimoh Chakraborty), a
successful filmmaker who travels to Nainital with a friend, only to find
himself entangled in a tale of a haunted palace, a tragic past, and
supernatural forces.
As per Sacnilk, the film has collected Rs 11 crore at the box office
within four days of its release.
