A master storyteller, that is what, director, Vishal Bhardwaj is. He is known for making films based on the plays of William Shakespeare. Now he is going to make films based on another literary genius. This time, it is the famous author, Agatha Christie’s works, which he will turn into films.
In a chat with The Times Of India, Bhardwaj revealed that he was confused while being stuck at his Mussoorie home during COVID. Thinking about what kind of films, he would get to make during the pandemic, forced him to introspect.
Vishal’s love for murder mysteries, Alfred Hitchcock and Agatha Christie inspired him during his confused state. His love for Christie’s works and the fact that they can be shot in a single location finally prompted him to make a film on her works.
Speaking to TOI, he further said— …I love Agatha Christie. India has a huge fan base of hers. And people of our generation, those who did not grow up with mobile phones and social media – you know we lived in novels! Summer vacation, libraries… those memories, wishing that the book never ends!”
The Agatha Christie Limited, an estate which manages the author’s literary and media rights to her work, had contacted Vishal. The director naturally felt honored, that they contacted him, and he felt proud that he will be able to adapt Christie’s works after, William Shakespeare’s.
His films Shakespearean Trilogy films include Maqbool, Omkara, and Haider. While Variety reports that Vishal has signed for an entire franchise, to adapt Agatha Christie’s work.
2021 is the year when Vishal will start the work on the film. It will be about a young heroine, who partners with a boy, to solve a murder. Vishal has remained mum, on which Agatha Christie novel, he is adapting.