The title look poster of Musasi, the upcoming Tamil film starring actor-filmmaker Prabhu Deva, was released by filmmaker Lokesh Kanagaraj via social media on Thursday. Director Sam Rodrigues, who is making his debut with the action thriller, tells Silverscreen India that the film is named after a Japanese warrior and features Prabhu Deva in the role of a cop.
Written and directed by Sam, Musasi is backed by John Britto’s Joy Film Box Entertainment.
Speaking to Silverscreen India about the film, Sam says, “It is an action thriller and a cop story. Musasi was a historical figure; a Japanese warrior known for his strategies and swordsmanship. His characteristics are reflected in the film’s protagonist, played by Prabhu Deva. The actor essays the role of the Deputy Commissioner of Police based in Chennai and the story revolves around the challenges he faces.”
The director wrote the script about two years ago, during the first pandemic-induced lockdown, based on newspaper clippings and inputs from police officers. He tells us the film follows a non-linear screenplay.
On casting the actor-choreographer in the lead, he says, “Prabhu Deva had not played a role of an IPS officer before, and I felt that it would be interesting to see him as a stubborn action hero. This will be an intense cop story. Although the film revolves around the hero, Musasi will not have a lot of heroism.”
Sam also reveals that Musasi will have no romance arc. Besides Prabhu Deva, the cast includes VTV Ganesh, Aruldoss and Malayalam actor Binu Pappu. Master Mahendran essays the role of the antagonist.
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The film is being shot by cinematographer by Vignesh Vasu and the team has already completed the first schedule, with the second one currently underway. “We went on floors in November 2021, and will be filming in Kodaikanal and Chennai,” says the director.
The crew includes Antony as the editor, while the film’s music will be composed by Prasadh SN. “There is only one song in the film, but the background music is an important element,” adds Sam.
“We are looking to wrap up in one month and the producers will then decide on the release,” he concludes.