Malayalam film producer Anto Joseph announced his banner’s next project, Marathakam, by sharing its title poster on social media on Saturday.
The film, backed by Anto Joseph Film Company in association with Altari Movies, will be written and directed by debutant filmmaker Ansaj Gopi.
Speaking to Silverscreen India about his maiden directorial, Ansaj says, “This will be a one-of-its-kind film in Malayalam cinema. It is an experimental film. The title means emerald and there is a connection to it in the storyline. The film will have a combination of various elements, including suspense, comedy, thrills, family sentiments, and love.”
Marathakam’s main cast members are Bibin George and Vishnu Unnikrishnan, who have earlier collaborated as writers on Malayalam films such as Kattappanayile Rithwik Roshan (2016) and Amar Akbar Anthony (2015). “This is the first time both Bibin and Vishnu are doing full-fledged roles in a film. It is a double-hero story,” says Ansaj.
Other actors featuring in pivotal roles include Sanusha, Kalabhavan Shajon, and Jagadeesh. “Sanusha plays the romantic pair of Bibin’s character,” the director adds.
The team was looking to start the project before the Covid-19 lockdown, says Ansaj. “I started to write in 2020 and Dhipu N Baabu stepped in to work on the screenplay with me.”
Recommended
“This film has a universal concept, which is adapted to the local audience. There are also talks for a Tamil remake,” he adds.
The film went on floors on Saturday in Kumily, Kerala, with Sinu Sidharth handling the cinematography and Riyas K Badhar serving as the editor. Most parts of the film will be shot in Kumily, says the director. Arjun V Akshaya and Syamprasad are the composers for the film, which will feature three songs.
The team is looking to wrap up filming by mid-December and are expecting to release Marathakam in theatres.