Bab 18: the start of something spooky
The atmosphere on the set of *The Haunting of Kasauli* buzzed with excitement and anticipation. The old British-era hotel, with its crumbling walls and dusty corridors, stood as both a character and a backdrop, perfectly embodying the eerie essence of the film. As the sun began to rise, casting golden light through the fog, Arjun gathered his cast and crew for the first scene of the day.
**"Alright, everyone, let's bring the magic of Kasauli to life!"** Arjun called out, his voice filled with enthusiasm.
Today's shoot was pivotal; it would establish the film's tone and set the stage for Vikram's adventurous yet comical journey as he investigates the hotel's haunted reputation.
**"We're starting with the opening scene, where Vik arrives at the hotel!"** Arjun explained, pacing excitedly in front of the crew. **"Randeep, I want you to capture Vik's quirky charm. You're not just arriving at a location; you're stepping into a world of possibilities."**
Randeep nodded, his eyes sparkling with determination. He had spent days preparing for this role, watching old horror comedies for inspiration. He understood that Vikram wasn't just a paranormal investigator; he was a character full of life, humor, and a hint of recklessness.
As the crew set up the cameras, Arjun called for quiet. He glanced at his script, feeling a rush of pride as he saw his words beginning to take shape on screen. This was the moment he had envisioned for so long.
**"Action!"** he shouted, and the scene unfolded.
Randeep's character, Vikram, stepped out of his brightly colored van, his gear clanking noisily as he approached the hotel. He turned to the camera, wearing a wide grin, and waved enthusiastically.
**"Welcome to Kasauli!"** he exclaimed, the enthusiasm radiating from him. **"I hear the ghosts here are just as charming as the views! Let's see what secrets this old hotel has to offer!"**
The crew erupted in laughter, and Arjun couldn't help but smile. This was exactly the tone he wanted—playful yet curious.
#### Technical Hurdles
However, as the first few takes rolled by, they faced their first hurdle. The weather, which had been perfect moments before, suddenly shifted. Dark clouds rolled in, and the winds picked up, howling through the trees like a ghostly choir.
**"Hold on!"** Vikram called out, his voice strained against the rising wind. **"It's getting a bit too spooky out here!"**
Arjun waved a hand to pause the shoot, stepping aside to discuss with the cinematographer. **"We need to rethink the shot. The lighting is all wrong now, and I don't want the ghosts overshadowed by the weather,"** he said, rubbing his temples in frustration.
After some deliberation, they decided to move the scene indoors. The hotel's dimly lit lobby offered an atmospheric alternative.
**"Alright, everyone! Let's shift to the lobby!"** Arjun announced, trying to maintain morale. **"We'll turn this setback into a positive!"**
#### Indoor Magic
Once inside, Arjun felt the creative energy return. The lobby was filled with dust motes dancing in the light, casting an ethereal glow that perfectly complemented the film's spooky vibe.
**"Let's reset!"** Arjun instructed, and the crew quickly transformed the space, positioning props and adjusting the lighting to create an inviting yet eerie ambiance.
Randeep and Sharman stepped into their roles, the camaraderie evident as they prepared for the next take.
**"Are you ready for this?"** Sharman asked, grinning as he adjusted his glasses, embodying the practical and skeptical Aditi.
**"Absolutely! Just follow my lead,"** Randeep replied, his eyes sparkling with mischief.
With a newfound determination, Arjun called for action once more.
As Randeep delivered his lines, the scene began to flow. Aditi entered the lobby with skepticism etched on her face, questioning Vikram's intentions.
**"This place is just a bunch of old stories, Vik. You can't really believe in all this ghost nonsense,"** Sharman's character remarked, crossing his arms.
**"Oh, ye of little faith!"** Randeep shot back, his eyes gleaming with excitement. **"You'll see; this hotel has secrets waiting to be uncovered!"**
Arjun watched the chemistry unfold on screen, heart racing with excitement. The dialogue was witty, and the energy between the characters was palpable.
Status Power Mingguan
-- Peringkat
Power 
-- Power
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