Visual effects designer V. Srinivas Mohan, known for his work in Tamil blockbusters such as "Enthiran", "Sivaji" and "Boys", Tuesday said the visual effects scene in India is still in its nascent stage because people have not familiarized themselves with the technology.

"Cost has never been a reason for not using visual effects in Indian cinema. We don't give the technology its due respect and resort to using shoddily presented visual effect scenes because we hesitate to know more about the technology," he said.

Oscar-winning sound engineer Resul Pookuty Tuesday said filmmakers should make films with visuals and sounds that so appeal to the audience and persuade them to come to the theatres.

"We live in a world driven by internet and a click of a button. Audience can download a pirated version of a film online, instead of choosing to watch in a theatre. To persuade audiences to come to cinemas, filmmakers should make films that appeal with visuals and as well as sound," he said.

Actor turned producer John Abraham, a half Malayali, is planning to rope in Malayalam superstar Mohanlal in his next film "Jaffna".

"We are also looking at regional films. I am producing a Marathi film. Definitely, I would love to produce a Malayalam film. We have one of the best actors in our country there - a gentleman called Mohanlal. There is so much to learn from him," John, who turned producer with "Vicky Donor", told IANS while talking about his future plans.

Sridevi, who has made an impressive comeback with "English Vinglish", will light the lamp at the 14th Mumbai Film Festival, starting Oct 18.

Critically acclaimed Hollywood comedy-drama "Silver Linings Playbook", starring Jennifer Lawrence, Robert De Niro and Anupam Kher, will open the festival.

The eight-day fest, presented by Reliance Entertainment and American Express and organised by the Mumbai Academy of Moving Image, will showcase over 200 movies, including nine silent films.