Vikram Bhatt Returns with Haunted 3D: Echoes of the Past Amid Criticism
Vikram Bhatt's Legacy in Horror Cinema
Vikram Bhatt is a prominent figure in the realm of Indian horror films. His notable works include Raaz, 1920, and Haunted 3D, which have left a lasting impact on Bollywood's horror landscape. Currently, he is preparing for the launch of his latest project, Haunted 3D: Echoes of the Past, featuring Mimoh Chakraborty in the lead role. The film is scheduled to hit theaters on June 12, 2026. Recently, the official teaser was released, but it received a mixed response from online viewers. In light of the backlash regarding the CGI used in the film, Bhatt has shared his thoughts on the matter.
Vikram Bhatt Addresses Criticism
Vikram Bhatt On Haunted 3D Echoes Of The Past
The original Haunted was released in 2011. When asked about the lengthy gap since the first film, Vikram humorously remarked, "I ended up in jail for a while." He and his wife faced legal troubles in a significant cheating case. Discussing his upcoming film, he mentioned, "After receiving initial feedback about the heavy use of VFX, we decided to film on actual locations. However, some viewers are misinformed. They fail to recognize that we shot in real settings. Haters will always find something to criticize, while true fans will appreciate the work." Responding to the negative feedback, he emphasized the need for a deeper understanding of cinema. He compared it to watching Star Wars and questioning its CGI, stating, "Where else would I find a real ghost? This is how ghosts are portrayed in films."
The Appeal of Haunted 3D: Echoes of the Past
Haunted 3D Echoes Of The Past's Pan-India Appeal
Vikram also discussed the broad appeal of Haunted 3D: Echoes of the Past, noting that horror films tend to resonate across various regions. He pointed out that his films have historically performed well, even when dubbed. He referenced 1920 as an example, explaining that audiences in the South often do not immediately connect with Hindi film stars. "While Hindi audiences have embraced actors like Allu Arjun and Yash, the same cannot be said for our stars. This is the reality. Given this context, our films tend to receive a more favorable response. Horror transcends casting; it sells fear rather than stardom," he concluded. Bhatt highlighted that globally, horror films frequently feature newcomers, a trend that is not exclusive to India.