Wednesday Sep 24 2008, Trivendrum

‘Chithrashalabhangalude Veedu’ no kid’s stuff: Krishnakumar

Krishnakumar, who makes his directorial debut with ‘Chithrashalabhangalude Veedu’, is not new to films and direction.A former associate of directors like Venu Nagavally, Mohan Kupleri and Shaji Kailas, Krishnakumar had also worked on the television programme ‘Veritta Kaazhchakal’, associating himself with V.K.Sreeraman.And it’s banking on these diverse experiences that he set out to make his debut film, which is very much different from the usual stuff we get to see these days.

A film which has children as the key players, ‘Chithrashalabhangalude Veedu’ is produced by Ravi Chalissery under the banner of Sevens Power Films.Master Ganapathy plays the key role while the cast also comprises of Lakshmi Sharma, Sivaji Guruvayoor, Manraj, Gayathri, Saikumar, Mala Aravindan, Ambika Mohan, Manikandan, T.S.Raju, Chali Pala etc.Krishnakumar opens up about his debut film and its significance in a brief chat.

Excerpts-

* Tell us about the theme of ‘Chithrashalabhangalude Veedu’?-The film is based on story and screenplay by Brijesh Balakrishnan.It’s all about a young boy, who studies in the tenth standard and who has a bit of a criminal tendency.He is a real headache for the school authorities, who want him out of the school.And then comes a teacher who tries to understand this boy and she establishes with him a very strong bond of attachment.

* So, what exactly are you attempting to say through the film?- I am trying to establish the fact that it’s usually the society that is responsible in shaping and moulding a child’s personality.

The film has a message to convey to teachers and to the society as a whole.And it also emphasizes on the principles of ahimsa and brotherhood.There’s also something to say about the society’s attitude to children of AIDS victims.In total, we have tried to do something for the society and not just make a film.

* While most directors tend to make a commercial film for their debut venture, you’ve sought to be different.

Why so?-To be frank, I’ve had to face the many hurdles that a debutante director faces.It’s rather difficult to get the dates of popular stars and go in for a full-fledged commercial venture.And on the other side, I had felt that there’s lack of films focusing on children, and hence this attempt.

* So, is it a children’s film?-No, not at all.It’s a movie for children as well as for grown ups.If children will love to see the movie, grown ups are sure to get out of the film a very serious message, or to be precise some very serious and significant messages.

* What made you cast Master Ganapathy in the lead role?-I had seen his earlier movies and had realized that he is a child with enough of acting talent.And our character too suits him in all ways.That’s why we decided to cast him.

* So, ‘Chithrashalabhangalude Veedu’ is all set for release.

What are your expectations about the response at the box office?-Of course I know it very well that the film won’t get the opening that our usual commercial flicks with popular stars get.But the word-of-the-mouth publicity will eventually bring in people to see the film.And we have also contacted some schools all over the state so that we could get our message across to children and teachers too.I am sure that whoever sees the film would like it too.

* All the best!-Thanks.