Indian Horror Film ‘Numinous,’ Based on Real Paranormal Case, Boards Fearfolks for Cannes Sales (EXCLUSIVE)

Bangkok-based distribution and production company Fearfolks has come aboard the Indian, Hindi-language horror film “Numinous,” taking on worldwide sales and pre-sell rights at the upcoming Cannes Film Market.

Directed by and starring Jay Alani – an Indian paranormal investigator, filmmaker, podcast host, and bestselling author – “Numinous” is drawn from one of Alani’s own documented case files. Set in a remote area of Himachal Pradesh, the story begins when police discover a burnt-out house with a charred body found seated inside. The family, unconvinced the death was accidental, enlists a paranormal investigator who uncovers something far more disturbing than a conventional crime.

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Gaurav K. Sharma, known for “Gangs of Waseypur” and “Madras Cafe,” and Mihir Rajda of “Family Kirana Store” round out the principal cast. The screenplay is co-written by Neil D’Silva.

“We are looking out for projects that have unique concepts produced by a strong creative team,” said Hans Audric Estialbo, CEO of Fearfolks. “We believe ‘Numinous’ is a horror piece that has great potential to be received well by the audience not only in India and the region, but around the world.”

Beyond filmmaking, Alani has built an extensive profile in paranormal research and supernatural folklore documentation, spanning TEDx talks, podcasts, and international media appearances. His documented case files have accumulated millions of views across platforms. His published titles include “Haunted,” “The Paranormal Boy,” and “The Haunted Doorway.”

“‘Numinous’ is unique because it doesn’t treat horror as something that attacks you – it treats it as something you allow in your psyche,” said Alani. “It’s an investigative horror, apart from being a supernatural film. It explores how trauma, belief, and human choice create a pattern that repeats across time.”

D’Silva said: “With ‘Numinous,’ we intend to bring to avid horror fans a story that would give them a true taste of the genre, and create in them a feeling of lingering dread that makes them think and ask questions.”

Fearfolks previously brought Thailand’s “Death Whisperer” franchise – that country’s highest-grossing horror franchise – into the Indian market, and also distributed A24’s “Mother Mary.” The company is additionally set to distribute the upcoming Kane Parsons film “Backrooms” and Sundance title “Leviticus” in Thailand.

Principal photography on “Numinous” is scheduled to begin in June, with a March 2027 release planned.