Dies Irae director Rahul Sadasivan on audiences' expectations, writing more horror stories and more| Exclusive

The young director talked about his desire to tell more horror stories and being consistent to satisfy viewers in an exclusive interview with OTTplay.

Rahul Sadasivan and Poster of Dies Irae

Within a week of its theatrical release, Pranav Mohanlal's most recent film, Dies Irae, has already made over Rs 50 crore at the box office. Many people are talking about Rahul Sadasivan's previous films on social media in addition to this one. The young director talked about his desire to tell more horror stories and being consistent to satisfy viewers in an interview with OTTplay.

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Rahul Sadasivan Exclusive Interview

Viewers all over the world are discussing various theories regarding the making of a horror film universe with the release of Dies Irae. Is creating a connection between Bramayugam and Bhoothakaalam a deliberate decision, or did it just happen during production?

First of all, I'm thrilled with the positive reviews Dies Irae is garnering. A horror film universe, a prequel, or a sequel have never been planned or will happen in the future. Dies Irae concludes appropriately, leaving the viewers to decipher a few new alternatives. We were certain that all of these questions would come up. The audience's various interpretations, theories, and speculations on the film's mysteries are fascinating.

Through different characters in Dies Irae, you are examining grief or the mental state of not being able to let go of someone. How is the process of putting all these feelings into words?

I don't have a particular approach, but I consistently create strong characters who are extremely weak and internally damaged. Their conflicting emotions make it difficult for them to interact with individuals and society. Without a doubt, some of the people I've seen and encountered during my life have influenced my writings.

Majority of the people who are part of your technical team are always the same. Is it a choice based only on their thorough understanding of your vision?

Exactly! They readily deliver what is needed and comprehend what I want. Communicating my thoughts to them is also uncomplicated. Because they treat the project as their own just like me, it often works well for the movie. I have also worked with rookies; for example, Christo Xavier was very new when he was roped in for Bramayugam.

Also Read: Dies Irae Review: Rahul Sadasivan scores a hat-trick with this eerie horror movie starring Pranav Mohanlal

People are now debating whether or not Bhoothakaalam should have been released in theatres. How do you feel about it?

Bhoothakaalam was never intended for theatrical release. It was made and shot during the pandemic lockdown. The film was undoubtedly meant to be watched alone because it calls for a quiet setting, such as when we watch it at home wearing headphones. There wouldn't be much of an impact if screened on big screen. The movie is designed for OTT release, in my opinion.

You are being compared to Hollywood directors like Robert Eggers for elevating the standard of horror filmmaking here. Are you bound with expectations because you are anticipated to bring in a better scary movie everytime?

There are a lot of expectations, but I won't call it a burden. I think it's crucial to tell appropriate stories and stay consistent. I am aware that some people enjoy watching scary flicks. I'm pleased that I'm appealing to that set of people while also reaching the audience as a whole. Dies Irae has been written with commercial aspects, as you can see. Expectations, in my opinion, are just a part of this journey.

Prior to the movie's premiere, you opted for minimal promotional activities. Was it a decision to keep the hype low?

I didn't want to say things like "it's too scary" or "it's one hell of an experience" because I wanted my film to speak for itself. People were already eager to see Dies Irae. Remaining silent is preferable to disclosing something and raising expectations. Our posters were doing a great job. I was particular about the paid premieres. Instead of the 31st morning, I wanted them to see it at night. Even at midnight, we had houseful shows, which makes me happy.

I read that you are collaborating with Mohanlal or Manju Warrier on an upcoming project. Is that true?

No, I haven't yet committed to any projects or made any formal announcements. The only thing I'm working on right now is a script. I have no intention of quitting this genre anytime soon. In order to keep the audience excited, I want to explore more in the horror genre.

FAQs

Q. What is Dies Irae release date?

A. Dies Irae starring Mohanlal hit theatres on October 31, with paid premiere shows on October 30.

Q. Which is Pranav Mohanlal's latest film?

A. Pranav Mohanlal's latest release is the Malayalam horror film Dies Irae.

Q. What is Dies Irae movie about?

A. Dies Irae is about a young man named Rohan whose life is disturbed by some paranormal activities, as he sets out to learn the strange occurrences connected to a supernatural entity.

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