Upendra Hit Shhh! Gears Up For a Second Release

The suspense thriller is coming back after 22 years with enhanced digital effects for the multiplex era

GANDHINAGAR: A popular suspense thriller — titled Shhh! and directed by Upendra — is gearing up for a second release.

Since technology has changed since its release 22 years ago, producer Kumar Govind is getting some enhancements done.

The film was shot in 35 mm, but will now be processed for digital screening. It will also have added computer graphics to heighten the horror elements.

“However, except for the title cards, we are not going to disturb the film in any way. If possible, we will try to enhance the word ‘Shhh,’ uttered plainly in the original,” Kumar Govind told Express.

He will be consulting Upendra, all the same. “He is the creator of Shhh and I will definitely need his views on the new version,” Govind said. After the enhancement, the film will be recensored and rereleased in a couple of months.

Work is on at Prasad Labs in Chennai. “I could have got this whole thing done in 20 days but the output wouldn’t be satisfactory. Like me, producers and directors from Kerala and other regions are lining up to get their films upgraded for rerelease,” he said.

The film was well received in 1993. “When I observe the multiplex trend, I feel this subject will appeal to the masses even today,” Kumar Govind predicted.

When Shhh! was first released, Upendra was not so well known. His effort stood out for its screenplay and background score.

“Since we were not so tech savvy, everything had a mono feeling. The sound in the upgraded version will be more effective,” Kumar Govind said.

The effort is going to cost him Rs 15 lakh. “Prasad Labs have quoted about Rs 10 lakh and I plan to come out with 3D posters this time,” he said.

The producer plans to dub the film in other Indian languages. “I may remove the songs when I release it in other languages,” he said.

Meanwhile, a sequel to Shhh! is also on the cards and two meetings have taken place with Upendra. “He is currently busy with Uppi 2. I don’t want to put pressure on him. I would only make Shhh! 2 with Upendra, which will make double the noise,” he said.