Kayamkulam Kochunni set to roll soon

The movie, with Nivin Pauly and Amala Paul in the lead, will go on the floors by Sept 1
Kayamkulam Kochunni set to roll soon

The life and times of Kerala’s own Robin Hood, Kayamkulam Kochunni, has always intrigued the masses. And, it is the same insatiable curiosity that prompted the scriptwriter duo, Bobby-Sanjay, to think about a movie on the legendary thief.

“Ever since we read about him in Aithihyamala, we wanted to know more about Kayamkulam Kochunni. The film is a result of our interest in him,” says Sanjay.

The movie, titled Kayamkulam Kochunni, and directed by Rosshan Andrews, will go on the floors by September 1.

Kochunni on screen
In 1996, director P A Thomas had also made a movie about Kayamkulam Kochunni with Satyan in the lead. The movie, from the famous Udaya Studios, was based on the life of the thief who stole from the rich and gave to the poor. The movie had Adoor Bhasi and Manavalan Joseph in the lead role. It also had singer K J Yesudas in a role

The duo spent almost a year doing research. “We went to Kayamkulam and met people, who are descendants of that clan. Scripting itself is a challenge. But then, the movie is based on ‘Aithihyamala’. Everything about the movie is adapted from the book,”  says Sanjay.

Nivin Pauly and Amala Paul will play the lead roles.  But, then how many of us can visualise Nivin in that role? Sanjay says Nivin is perfect to play the character. 

Aithihyamala has given in detail about the physical appearance of Kochunni. He was fair, medium-build and a good-looking man. And, Nivin suits the look. And, he has a commendable body of work too,” says Sanjay. And, Nivin, too, has taken the pain to get under the skin of the character. He, apparently, has taken classes in kalaripayattu and horse riding.

However, Sanjay adds that the movie, which will be shot at Uduppi and Sri Lanka, is a serious take on the man’s life. “There is humour, but then it is a serious movie,” he adds.

Huge team
Kayamkulam Kochunni, to be produced under the banner of Gokulam films, will have a strong team behind it. While Bollywood cinematographer Binod Pradhan will crank the camera, Gopi Sunder will compose the tunes. “Since it is a period movie, the art direction and costume departments will have a huge role in recreating that era. While Sunil Babu will erect the sets, Dhanya will be the costume designer,” says Sanjay. Kayamkulam Kochunni is likely to hit the screens by April, 2018. 

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