While cinematic universes increasingly rely on connected stories and years of built history, Aditya Sarpotdar believes that a simple idea is the key to the success of a horror universe: each film must work as a complete one. The director, who is set for the film ‘Shakti Shalini’, says that while the makers have a long-term vision of the universe, the films are primarily made for a broad audience.
Aditya Sarpotdar on separate narratives
In an interview with Variety India, Sarpotdar said, “The audience that actually follows this roadmap and follows all this in detail, at least in India, is not even 10%. The other 90% come to see a good film and have a good time. The idea is to cater to that 90% and not disappoint the other 10%.” So we’re not making movies just for the 10% audience that dissects every detail.”
Aditya Sarpotdar on balancing expectations
According to Sarpotdar, managing this balance is one of the most difficult creative challenges involved in building an interconnected franchise. “When you start building something, there’s no pressure because there are no expectations. But when you’re building a franchise, you come with a certain set of expectations because the previous movie worked. That’s why people come back for the next one,” he explains.
Aditya Sarpotdar by reinventing himself with every film
With ‘Shakti Shalini’ becoming his third film in the universe after ‘Munjya’ and ‘Thama’, the filmmaker says he has to keep reinventing his work. He added, “We have to reinvent ourselves with every movie as long as we know what the soul of the franchise is. You build around that soul and create a whole new experience.”
Cast and Premiere of ‘Shakti Shalini’
The cast of ‘Shakti Shalini’ includes Aneet PaddaNana Patekar, Vishal Jethwa i Seema Biswaswith the film currently scheduled to hit theaters during Christmas 2026.