I feel like a student again: Kannan

Mani Rathnam's erstwhile assistant talks to us about his sixth directorial venture
I feel like a student again: Kannan

R Kannan assisted Mani Ratnam for almost ten years -- from Kannathil Muthamittal to Guru. And according to him, that has given him the confidence to pursue quality scripts. Ivan Thanthiran starring Gautham Karthik, RJ Balaji and Shraddha Srinath in lead is his sixth film in nine years. "It has been quite a ride so far," he smiles. 

Ivan Thanthiran talks about the plight of engineering students in the city, says Kannan. "It's not a serious film, but I've heard many stories (from my ADs) about how these young engineering graduates suffer in general without making much money. Even call taxi drivers earn Rs 16,000 per month, and engineering graduates are paid about the same. We have dealt with the college life of students in an engaging way," he adds. 

While Gautham Karthik and RJ Balaji play college dropouts, the story is also about reverse engineering. "If you visit Ritchie Street in Chennai, you'll find many reverse engineers. In fact, I found them so brilliant. They can assemble anything without the required engineering degree. We shot a few portions there. It took two years for me to compile information and finalise the script. The film has a bit of CG work as well." When asked if he drew from life for his film, he laughs and says, "No, am not an engineering dropout, but RJ Balaji is an engineer (in real life)." 

Speaking of the cast, he says he roped in Shraddha after seeing U-Turn. "She's a wonderful performer. We've managed to get Super Subbarayan as the villain. He plays a role like the one G Umapathy did in Agni Natchathiram! As for Gautham, he's the apt choice for the role."

Did he show the film to Mani Ratnam? "No, not yet. But he'll be watching it soon! I feel like a student, who's going to write exams again." 

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