Dubai: Most filmmakers, after delivering the biggest Malayalam blockbuster of the year, would probably have Mohanlal, Mammootty and every major Indian star on speed dial.
But acclaimed South Indian filmmaker Chidambaram S Poduval did something stranger.
In this highly-reviewed movie, out in UAE cinemas now, child actor Adhisheshan K. R plays the titular Balan along with superbly talented Farzana Palathingal, who plays his mother.
It's a move that feels almost rebellious in an industry obsessed with opening weekend numbers and hero worship.
But then again, Chidambaram has never appeared particularly interested in doing what is expected.
Dubai: Most filmmakers, after delivering the biggest Malayalam blockbuster of the year, would probably have Mohanlal, Mammootty and every major Indian star on speed dial.
But acclaimed South Indian filmmaker Chidambaram S Poduval did something stranger.
Instead of cashing in his Manjummel Boys goodwill on a star-led extravaganza, the director followed it up with Balan: The Boy, a thriller headlined by a child actor, populated by unfamiliar faces, and centred around a mother who isn't exactly auditioning for the benevolent and sacrificial mother club.
In this highly-reviewed movie, out in UAE cinemas now, child actor Adhisheshan K. R plays the titular Balan along with superbly talented Farzana Palathingal, who plays his mother.
It's a move that feels almost rebellious in an industry obsessed with opening weekend numbers and hero worship.
But then again, Chidambaram has never appeared particularly interested in doing what is expected.
