The teaser of Kanakam Kaamini Kalaham, the upcoming Malayalam film starring actor Nivin Pauly in the lead role, was released by the actor on social media on Friday.
Backed by the actor’s home banner Pauly Jr Pictures, the film is directed by filmmaker Ratheesh Balakrishnan Poduval, who earlier made his directorial debut through the 2019 comedy-drama Android Kunjappan Version 5.25.
Speaking to Silverscreen India about Kanakam Kaamini Kalaham, the filmmaker, who has also written the script, said, “The film is an absurdist comedy but there are also thriller elements in parallel with the humour. The story revolves around an incident that happens in a hotel premise in Munnar, which leads to a chain of events. It is a confined space film, with surreal humour along with a lot of characters. The whole film takes place in one night.”
The filmmaker added that the script was inspired by a particular incident that happened in his life. “When I was shooting in Bengaluru a long time back, we were staying in a hotel. An incident happened there and we thought it would make for a good short film. But when the lockdown happened in 2020, I thought of developing it into a feature-length film. I wrote the script in about 4-5 days and sent it to Nivin. He liked the idea and after several discussions over the phone, we went on floors.”
The film was shot in Kochi and Munnar in October and November 2020.
Poduval revealed that Nivin did not originally want to act in it. “Nivin said that he would produce, while someone else could act, but it was my suggestion for him to act as well,” he said.
About the one minute teaser, he clarified, “The teaser isn’t from the film. Its purpose is to introduce the mood of Kanakam Kaamini Kalaham, but not the story. I just wanted to give a hint that whatever happens in the film is a little over the top. I wanted to give a taste of what one would feel after watching the film.”
Apart from Nivin, the film also features Grace Antony who essays the wife of Nivin’s character. The cast includes actors Vinay Forrt, Joy Mathew, Vincy Aloshious, Rajesh Madhavan, and Sudheer Paravoor in pivotal roles. “There are also about 8-9 characters, played by non-actors, apart from the main leads,” Poduval said.
The filmmaker also mentioned that while there are no songs, the background score plays a major role. Yakzen Gary Periera and Neha Nair have composed the music for the film.
Currently, the post-production is nearing completion, after which the film will be sent for censor certification, he added.
Regarding the release of Kanakam Kaamini Kalaham, the director said that they are looking to release the film in theatres. “It is a humorous film that is ideal for group watching. Also, all the technical aspects of the film are made for theatre viewing. So our goal is to release it on the big screen.”
