In the ever-evolving landscape of indie horror cinema, Paranormal Project, an 80-minute English-language horror feature, is steadily capturing the attention of thriller enthusiasts and critics alike. Written and directed by South Indian filmmaker SS Jishnu Dev, the film marks his ambitious debut in the English feature film space, blending eerie storytelling with unsettling real-life inspirations.
Produced under the banner of Captarius Entertainments by Chacko Skaria, in association with Jinu Celine’s Varaaha Films, the movie is distributed globally by Dark Web Films, an American film distribution company, alongside Varaaha Films. The feature has been making headlines for its gritty portrayal of ghost hunters confronting demonic forces in the hauntingly scenic yet shadowed backdrops of Kerala and Tamil Nadu.
A Dark Journey Through Four Paranormal Cases
Rooted in accounts of real-life paranormal investigations, Paranormal Project delves into the chilling experiences of a group of ghost hunters who face malevolent energies while probing unexplained occurrences. Structured into four gripping chapters — The Exorcism of Mary, The Haunted Desert, Nightmare of the West Ford, and The Mystery of I.T.A College — the narrative unfolds through intense exorcisms, terrifying hauntings, and demonic conflicts that test the investigators’ beliefs and resilience.
Each chapter exposes viewers to bone-chilling events where investigators, while attempting to liberate tormented souls, find their own spirits tested in an environment thick with fear and darkness. The portrayal of these encounters, dramatized with hair-raising realism, has been praised for its ability to evoke genuine dread while keeping audiences deeply engaged.
Craftsmanship with Global Collaborations
Adding to its eerie ambiance, Paranormal Project features a talented ensemble cast including Snehal Rao, Abhishek Sreekumar, Gautham S Kumar, Suneesh K Jaan, Chithra, Saran Indokera, Jalatha Bhaskar, among others. The child actors Master Amrith Sunil and Master Nainik also deliver compelling performances that elevate the film’s haunting tone.
Director SS Jishnu Dev not only helmed the project but also managed the film’s cinematography and editing, crafting a distinct visual style dominated by shadowy frames and atmospheric tension. The background score, a critical element in enhancing the spine-chilling sequences, is composed by renowned Italian musician Piero D’Agostino. Acclaimed sound engineer Sree Vishnu JS, a world record holder in his domain, led the sound mixing and design, ensuring an immersive auditory experience. Sound recording and mixing were executed by SV Productions and Broadland Atmos, further reinforcing the film’s technical finesse.
The publicity and promotional designs were created by Prajin Designz, contributing to the film’s unique aesthetic identity.
Filmed in the Heart of South India, Now Streaming Worldwide
Shot entirely across haunting locales in Kerala and Tamil Nadu, Paranormal Project leverages the natural mystique of these regions, with its shadow-heavy cinematography receiving accolades from both domestic and international critics. The film’s emphasis on realistic paranormal settings instead of typical CGI-driven horror sequences has resonated strongly with audiences seeking authenticity in horror storytelling.
Currently available worldwide through ABC Talkies and WFCN Content on Demand, the movie has carved out a niche among horror buffs and thriller movie lovers globally. The distribution strategy, focusing on digital streaming platforms, has helped the film reach a broader audience, enhancing its popularity through positive word of mouth and critic reviews.
A Promising Entry into English Horror by SS Jishnu Dev
Paranormal Project stands as a testament to SS Jishnu Dev’s directorial prowess and his capability to craft compelling narratives that transcend regional boundaries. With its blend of true-event inspirations, technical excellence, and gripping storytelling, the film sets a high benchmark for future horror features emerging from India.
For horror enthusiasts seeking a dose of authentic paranormal suspense with a regional twist, Paranormal Project offers a must-watch cinematic experience — a chilling reminder that sometimes, the scariest stories are the ones rooted in reality.
