Jackson Bazaar Youth, the upcoming Malayalam film starring veteran actor Indrans in the lead role, to be a family festival drama, director Shamal Sulaiman tells Silverscreen India.
The film is produced by filmmaker Zakariya, under the banners Cross Border Camera, Imagin Cinemas and Last Exit. The film’s first look poster was released by the makers on January 22.
In conversation with Silverscreen India, debutante director Shamal Sulaiman says, “Jackson Bazaar Youth will revolve around a music band troop and their subsequent tiffs and frictions.” Apart from Indrans playing the protagonist, Jackson Bazaar Youth will feature actors Chinnu Chandni, Jaffar Idukki, Lukman Avaran, Mathew and Abhiram Radhakrishan in pivotal roles.
Sulaiman notes that music will be an important element, in the film, with Govind Vasantha composing the background score and four songs, for the film. “Band culture is a tradition in Kerala, especially vibrant during church festivities. Likewise, this film and the music will create a festive mood and will be relatable to the audience,” he says. Other technical crew members include cinematographer Deepak D Menon, editor Appu N Bhattathiri, and audiographer MR Rajakrishnan.
Mentioning that the film is scripted by Qatar-based writer, Usman Marath, Sulaiman says that it was Zakariya who initiated this project. “Zakariya is my Guru. I have known him for about 10 years, and assisted him in his ventures like Sudani From Nigeria and Halal Love Story. When he knew I was ready to helm a film on my own, he suggested an idea about Jackson Bazaar Youth to me, being well aware of the kind of films I prefer making. He put me in touch with Usman, and the project took off, from there,” he adds.
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The filmmaker further notes that the film is currently under pre-production and the team is looking to cast several newcomers, as the project requires a wide range of actors. Moreover, the film will also feature real-time band troop artists. “As part of the research process, we will be spending time with some popular band troops in Kerala. When there are programs we will go with them to understand their work and lifestyle. We are also planning to host a workshop camp for actors to train them with the band related activities,” adds Sulaiman.
According to the director, the film will be shot in Kollam and Thenmala. If the pandemic situation is favourable, the team is planning to begin filming in April. Additionally, Zakariya is also producing two more upcoming Malayalam films– Momo in Dubai and Ayisha, still under different stages of production.