Patrick Graham: 'Betaal' takes inspiration from Indian mythology

After "Ghoul", director Patrick Graham wanted to dive into an action-packed yet accessible horror series, and is glad that he found the story of his upcoming web series "Betaal" deeprooted in Indian mythology.

Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan has backed "Betaal", which is set for a May 24 release. Graham has created, written "Betaal" and co-directed it with Nikhil Mahajan. The show is co-written by Suhani Kanwar.

"After ‘Ghoul', I wanted to create a different kind of horror series, which was more action packed and accessible. The concept of a cursed mountain containing an ancient spirit takes inspiration from Indian mythology, and it's about time we saw some zombie redcoats in popular fiction," Graham said.

"The series weaves its own ghost story to give backing to the action and suspense that then follows… I hope there is enough horror, suspense, shocks and, above all, strong characters to keep the audience hooked right up until the very end. You can expect some blood, some guts, and a lot of drama and emotion that should provide an exciting binge-session for everyone at home," he added.

Netflix on Friday released the trailer of the series, which delves into themes of an age-old cure, haunted tunnel, army of undead and how "evil is eternal".

Set in a remote village, the show narrates the story of a team on a mission to help the villagers and fight the horrific enemy. It started when they stumble upon the curse of Betaal mountain, which unleashes an army of zombies on them as well as the villagers. The trailer is dark, gripping, and intriguing.

The show promises to show audiences "breathless battle when a two-century-old East India Company Colonel, infected with the Betaal's curse, and his battalion of blood-thirsty zombie redcoats are released from their tomb -- attacking anything with a pulse".

Starring Viineet Kumar, Aahana Kumra, Suchitra Pillai, Jitendra Joshi, Jatin Goswami, Manjiri Pupala, and Syna Anand, the series will explore age-old secrets and ideologies. Renowned horror studio Blumhouse Television and SK Global Entertainment have executive produced the show. "Betaal" will release on Netflix on May 24.

Mumbai, May 8 (IANS) After "Ghoul", director Patrick Graham wanted to dive into an action-packed yet accessible horror series, and is glad that he found the story of his upcoming web series "Betaal" deeprooted in Indian mythology.

Tags: Cinema, Showbiz, TV, OTT