Operation JuJuPi, the upcoming English and Tamil bilingual film starring Chaams in the lead role, will release in theatres on the occasion of Diwali (November 4 ), the actor announced on Tuesday.
The political fantasy film is written, directed and produced by Arunkanth, who has also donned the hats of music composer, sound designer, colourist, and handled several other departments as well.
Chaams, the well-known Tamil comedian-actor, is playing a lead role for the first time in his career. Operation JuJuPi marks his 150th film.
Speaking to Silverscreen India, Arunkanth says the actor essays an out-and-out serious role in the film. “Operation JuJuPi is about a common man’s dream to transform the nation into a happy place using a magical master plan. I believe development should be measured based on people’s happiness, not on economic growth. The film deals with world politics and also discusses how reforms can be made to the constitution,” the filmmaker adds.
Noting that he has worked with Chaams in his earlier directorials like Goko Mako and Indha Nilai Maarum, Arunkanth says, “Chaams is capable of pulling off a serious role and I wanted to bring out his untapped talent. Besides, I like his dedication, discipline and team spirit.”
The film also features a large cast, including actors Vinodhini Vaidynathan, Jagan, Badava Gopi, Manobala, Raaghav Ranganathan, Santhana Bharathi, Venkat Subha, Vaiyapuri, and Mounicka, among others.
Operation JuJuPi was simultaneously shot in Tamil and English. On choosing to make a bilingual film, Arunkanth says people across the world need to see the film as it talks about how to create a happy nation. “I made this film in Tamil as it is my mother tongue. But I also want it to reach audiences beyond borders, so I shot it in English as well.”
The film was shot for around 26 days in November and December 2020 in places like Coimbatore, the Western Ghats, Idukki, Karaikal, Vedaranyam and Rameswaram.
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Operation JuJuPi is slated to release alongside biggies like Annaatthe and Maanaadu. Arunkanth says he was able to make it because of the self-sustaining model he uses for his films, which includes pre-booking on his website. “I know my target audience and I have customer base data. We began pre-booking for the film six months ago. Based on the response, I have spoken to several multiplexes and have got slots for screening my film.”
Arunkanth followed this method of promotion and ticket booking for his last two films as well. “This gives confidence to film exhibitors to provide screens for my films. I believe following such a method can help small and medium scale films get screens on their desired dates.”
“Initially, Operation JuJuPi will release in a handful of theatres on Diwali. Later, as and when I get more screens, I will roll it out across other states and countries,” the filmmaker reveals, adding that post the theatrical release, he also plans to send the film to festivals.