Srinidhi Bengaluru to screen horror film Video 20 days early, Hollywood style

Filmmaker Srinidhi Bengaluru will screen his horror film Video for a select audience 20 days before its theatrical release on September 11. He says the strategy is inspired by Hollywood films such as The Blair Witch Project and Paranormal Activity, which used early audience response to build word of mouth.

Around 20 audience members will be chosen through a contest. Participants must post a three-minute video narrating a real horror experience on social media. The creators with the most views and engagement will be invited. Makers also plan to sell tickets for the same show to the general public.

Video has received an A certificate, which Srinidhi says is solely for its horror content. He said the film does not dilute scares and uses a realistic treatment. The film is produced by Dheekshith Shetty under Dhee Cinemas, with a cast including Bharatha, Jeevan Shivakumar, and Tejesh S M.