New Delhi: The re-release of Sohum Shah’s captivating film ‘Tumbbad’ has once again brought its mesmerizing and eerie world to the forefront, enchanting audiences with its atmospheric and unnerving storytelling. As the film continues to garner accolades, the creative minds behind this cinematic masterpiece have unveiled exclusive behind-the-scenes footage. This newly-released material delves into the meticulous efforts involved in crafting one of the film’s most spine-chilling characters – Daadi. The social media post accompanying this footage reads, “The face of fear in #Tumbbad wasn’t born overnight… Watch Daadi’s terrifying transformation unfold in these exclusive behind-the-scenes! Experience the magical world of #Tumbbad once again, running now in cinemas.”
The unseen footage offers a glimpse into the exhaustive and intricate process of transforming a young actor into the terrifying Daadi, primarily utilizing expertly applied prosthetics. Layer by layer, the makeup application reveals the commitment and skillful artistry of the team involved. The footage showcases the dedication required to bring such a haunting character to life – from the initial design concepts to the final, terrifying visage. What makes this transformation even more remarkable is the young actor’s dual role, portraying both Pandurang and Daadi, demonstrating extraordinary versatility and talent at such a tender age.
Released in theaters once again on September 13, 2024, ‘Tumbbad’ initially hit the screens in 2018. Directed by Rahi Anil Barve, with Anand Gandhi serving as the creative director and Adesh Prasad as the co-director, this Hindi-language folk horror film has left an indelible mark on viewers. The screenplay, a collaborative work of Mitesh Shah, Prasad, Barve, and Gandhi, weaves a gripping tale that continues to captivate audiences. The film was produced by Sohum Shah in collaboration with Aanand L. Rai, Mukesh Shah, and Amita Shah, with Sohum Shah also starring in the lead role as Vinayak Rao.
‘Tumbbad’ was celebrated at the 64th Filmfare Awards, where it garnered eight nominations and secured three wins – Best Cinematography, Best Art Direction, and Best Sound Design. The movie’s success was further echoed by critics, who praised its compelling narrative, exceptional production design, and astonishing cinematography. Notably, ‘Tumbbad’ holds the distinction of being the first Indian film to premiere in the Critics’ Week Section of the prestigious 75th Venice International Film Festival.
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Adding depth and authenticity to the film’s narrative, the cast includes Jyoti Malshe and Anita Date-Kelkar, whose performances significantly contribute to the movie’s haunting and atmospheric storytelling. Their portrayals, alongside Shah’s compelling performance, enrich the film’s chilling appeal.
Returning to the behind-the-scenes footage, the transformation of Daadi deserves special mention. The young actor tasked with portraying both Pandurang and Daadi underwent an arduous and transformative process. The application of prosthetics and makeup was not merely about creating a visually striking character but also about embodying the eerie essence that Daadi represents within the story’s folklore. Each step in the transformation process highlights the remarkable craftsmanship and artistic dedication of the makeup and prosthetic team, underscoring the high level of detail and commitment involved in achieving the final look.
The significance of re-releasing ‘Tumbbad’ extends beyond simply bringing a celebrated film back to theaters. It offers new audiences an opportunity to experience this unique blend of horror and folklore, while also allowing long-time fans to rediscover and appreciate the intricacies of its production. The unseen footage serves to deepen the viewer’s understanding and appreciation of the work that went into creating the film’s haunting atmosphere.
The re-release of ‘Tumbbad’ is not just a testament to the film’s enduring popularity but also a celebration of the incredible talent and dedication behind its creation. From the striking visuals and meticulous art direction to the chilling sound design and powerful performances, every element of ‘Tumbbad’ has been crafted with care and precision. This commitment to excellence is what makes ‘Tumbbad’ a standout piece in the genre of folk horror.
As the film continues its run in cinemas, the newly-released behind-the-scenes footage offers fans and newcomers alike a fascinating insight into the creative process. It shines a spotlight on the unsung heroes of film production – the makeup artists, prosthetic specialists, and the young performer whose versatility brought two pivotal characters to life. This re-release and the accompanying footage ensure that the magic and terror of ‘Tumbbad’ endure, inviting audiences to once again step into its hauntingly beautiful world.
