The arrival of Hollywood director Zach Cregger’s new horror film, Weapons, has been met with critical acclaim, but among Indian cinephiles, it has ignited a fierce and fascinating debate. Social media platforms are buzzing with discussions pointing out the uncanny resemblance between the premise of Weapons and the world of the 2023 Gujarati horror blockbuster Vash and its successful 2024 Hindi remake, Shaitaan.
The Source Of The Controversy
The primary catalyst for the comparison is the plot of Weapons, which revolves around the mass disappearance of children in a small town, and the subsequent paranoia that grips the community. This theme of children being mysteriously targeted resonates strongly with audiences familiar with Vash and Shaitaan, where a family is tormented by a sinister stranger who takes control of their daughter through black magic.
The debate has been further fueled by the trailer for the upcoming sequel to the original Gujarati film, reportedly titled Vash Level 1. Netizens were quick to point out that the sequel’s trailer also suggests a story of a larger, community-wide supernatural event, making the parallels to Weapons even more pronounced and leading to a flurry of online speculation.
Is It A Case of Coincidence ?
While some social media users are quick to label Weapons as a potential copy, many film analysts and cinephiles are urging caution, calling it a lazy criticism. They argue that themes of mass disappearances, small-town paranoia, and stolen children are universal tropes in the horror genre, explored in stories globally for decades.
Furthermore, supporters of Weapons highlight Zach Cregger’s unique directorial style. Known for his work on Barbarian, Cregger deftly blends genres, mixing stark horror with black comedy and complex character drama. This distinct approach, they argue, sets Weapons apart, making it a unique piece of filmmaking even if its foundational premise feels familiar. The debate continues to rage online, with both sides presenting compelling points about creative inspiration versus outright imitation.
About Weapons
Weapons is a 2025 American horror film directed by Zach Cregger. Released by Warner Bros. Pictures, the film stars Josh Brolin and Julia Garner and explores the paranoia that engulfs a small town after a mysterious mass disappearance of its children.
About Vash and Shaitaan
Vash is a 2023 Gujarati-language supernatural horror film that became a blockbuster hit. Its success led to the popular 2024 Hindi remake, Shaitaan, starring Ajay Devgn, R. Madhavan, and Jyothika, which also achieved massive commercial success. Both films revolve around a family’s terrifying encounter with a man who uses black magic to control their daughter.
(Also read: Zach Cregger’s Weapons Is A HIT – Film Aims For Third-Biggest Horror Opening Of The Year With $43 Million Weekend, Sinners And Final Destination: Bloodlines Top )
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