Rana Daggubati's horror slate opens with Kangana Ranaut's 'Scary Picture'
What's the story
Rana Daggubati is all set to create a dedicated ecosystem for horror films in India. The first step toward this goal is the upcoming film Scary Picture, featuring Kangana Ranaut and directed by Telugu filmmaker Ravi Babu. The makers unveiled its title poster on Friday, November 13.
Vision
'We will produce the 1st set of films'
In an interview with Variety India, Daggubati revealed his plans to create a dedicated platform for horror films.
He said, "Suresh Productions and Spirit Media are excited to collaborate with filmmakers who want to make horror."
"We will produce the first set of films, and if enough talent wants to build this space with us, we will turn this into an independent brand that can do much more within the genre."
Submissions
Filmmakers can send their ideas to Daggubati
Daggubati also revealed that they are open to submissions from filmmakers.
He said, "Filmmakers can send their ideas to scarypicture@thespiritmedia.com, and we will reach out once we review them."
"Ideally, a submission should include: 1) The full script, 2) Three to five minutes of footage, either from the film itself or from previous work, 3) A short introduction explaining who they are and why they want to make this film."
Exploration
'India is diverse in every genre, and horror is no...'
Daggubati also expressed his interest in exploring different subgenres of horror.
He said, "India is diverse in every genre, and horror is no different. Every region has its own fears, its own stories and its own ways of telling them."
"So yes, we welcome every subgenre: psychological, creature, horror-comedy, social horror, or whatever new narratives filmmakers bring to us."
New direction
'It is experiential and heavily concept-driven'
Scary Picture marks a new direction for Suresh Productions, which is known for mainstream Telugu cinema and family entertainers.
The film is an attempt to tap into the growing popularity of horror among younger audiences.
Daggubati said, "Horror has become one of the most exciting ways for younger audiences to engage with stories."
"It is experiential and heavily concept-driven, and it doesn't limit itself to films anymore."