Mamta was the perfect choice for this role, says Neeli director

Horror is arguably Malayalis' favourite genre; and well-made supernatural thrillers have a good market in Kerala provided they're fresh and unique. So whenever a director sets out to make a supernatural film, he has to deal with heavy expectations.

Debutant Althaf Rehuman, who has worked as an associate of directors Kamal and Joshy, seems to be very confident about his upcoming film Neeli, which deals with paranormal activity. "Mamta Mohandas is playing a speech therapist who returns to her hometown after her husband's death. She is approached by four men who notify her about a mysterious incident."

When asked about Mamta Mohandas' casting, Althaf says, "We wanted someone who was bold and tough, and I thought Mamta would be perfect for this part. She is the central character."

Anoop Menon will be seen in the role of a paranormal investigator. Sreekumar Marimayam and Sinil Sainudeen, who are playing a couple of thieves, will provide the comic relief. Baby Miya, a debutant child artiste, plays Mamta's six-year-old daughter, while Baburaj appears in a supporting role. The director also adds that there is a surprise factor about the film which he doesn't want to disclose.

Produced by Dr. Sundar Menon (Ayaal Njanalla) and written by Riyas Marath and Muneer Muhammad (Sapthamasree Thaskaraha), Neeli has music by Sharath. The film will have three songs including the title track. The camera is handled by Manoj Pillai (Paleri Manikyam) and editing by V Sajan (Ramante Edanthottam).

Neeli is scheduled for release in the first week of July. Mamta last appeared in Carbon with Fahadh Faasil, and after Neeli, she will next be seen in Prithviraj's Nine.