As Thandel marks one year since its release, we spoke with PhantomFX’s Senior Creative Head - Asif Bhushan, to reflect on the journey behind the film’s VFX, the challenges tackled by the team, and the recognition the project has received. From crafting stormy ocean simulations to delivering under intense timelines, this conversation offers a closer look at the work behind one of the film’s most demanding sequences.
As we celebrate one year of Thandel, how would you describe PhantomFX’s contribution to the project?
For Thandel, PhantomFX mainly handled the FX simulations for the stormy ocean sequence, which was one of the most challenging parts of the film. We executed close to 140 shots in about two months, which is quite intense considering the amount of water work involved. The work was done across our Chennai and Hyderabad teams, and the focus was on creating large-scale, believable ocean sims that would hold up cinematically while still blending naturally with the live-action plates.
What was the primary focus for the team while working on this project?
The main focus was realism and continuity. Water is unforgiving, any mistake in scale, motion, or timing immediately stands out. We spent a lot of time fine-tuning ocean dynamics, wave breakup, white water, spray, and interaction, making sure everything felt physically correct but still dramatic. At the same time, we had to stay within tight timelines, so efficiency in simulation workflows was just as important as visual quality.
Looking back, what stands out about the way the team approached Thandel?
What really stands out is the ownership the team took. This wasn’t an easy show, heavy FX sims, multiple iterations, tight deadlines, but the team stayed focused and proactive. There was strong collaboration between layout, FX, lighting, and compositing, and everyone was aligned on making sure the sims integrated well into the final shots. The attitude was very solution-driven, which made a big difference in delivering the volume we did.
Thandel received Best Effect Simulation (VAM Awards) and Collaboration Excellence (Autodesk Imagine Awards). How does this recognition feel, and what does it mean for the team?
Honestly, it feels great. Winning Best FX Simulation at the VAM Awards is very special because it directly recognizes the complexity and quality of the work the team put into the ocean simulations.
The Collaboration Excellence award from Autodesk Imagine also means a lot, because a show like this can only work when pipelines, communication, and teamwork are solid. These awards are a big morale boost and a proud moment for everyone involved.
Final question: How many times have you watched Thandel since it came out?
I have watched the full film once, but I’ve definitely watched our stormy ocean sequences multiple times, especially when it was released on OTT.
It’s always satisfying to see the sims in final color, sound, and context, and honestly, it’s hard not to pause, rewind, and check how the shots landed on screen!
Want to dive deeper? For a detailed look at the creative and technical process behind the visuals, catch our “Thandel - Break-It-Down” session with Asif, where he walks through key shots and FX workflows in detail - [Link]
