Horror genre is not seen as part of popular culture: Emraan Hashmi

Emraan Hashmi talks about why there are fewer horror films being made in Bollywood, horror genre in the West, adds that when he signs one he is not expecting any award for the same.

Emraan Hashmi has acted in a number of horror films such as Raaz 2 (2009) and Ek Thi Daayan (2013). In the recent past, horror movies have failed to strike a chord with the audience. However, internationally, the genre seems to be doing well at the box office. Ask the actor why the genre is not as popular in India, and he says, “Fewer horror films are not only being made in India, but also in the West, because not many film-makers dabble with the genre. Horror is not seen as part of popular culture. More drama and comedy films are being made now.”

Emraan Hashmi talks about why there are fewer horror films being made in Bollywood, horror genre in the West, adds that when he signs one he is not expecting any award for the same. (HT Photo)

Emraan adds that not many horror films are nominated in the award categories too. “At the most, they are nominated for the special effects in the film. A horror movie doesn’t make a lasting impact on people who are the custodians [of cinema], or who dictate what cinema is. If I take up a horror film, I will not hope for a best actor award (chuckles),” he says.

Citing a Hollywood example, he says, “The Conjuring series almost achieved a cult status. For a long time, one hadn’t seen a good horror film made in the West. In the ’70s, film-makers helmed movies such as the The Omen (1976) and The Exorcist (1973) that went on to become popular. Then, there was a lull. The Conjuring helped revive the horror genre,” says Emraan.