For photographer-turned-filmmaker Panem Prabhakar, cinema has always been about finding the right frame. Having worked as an associate in a few Tamil films, Panem marks his debut as writer-director in Kannada with Usiru. Billed as a suspense drama and produced by Lakshmi Harish under RSP Productions, the film is set to release on August 29. Prabhakar says, “This is my first step as a director, and I didn’t want to make just another thriller. For me, the story is the hero. The film has suspense, but it also has deep emotions—what I call a full-fledged tapanguchi. Every character matters, and there’s meaning in the smallest detail.” Tilak Shekar plays an investigation officer, who must protect his wife when her life comes under threat. Known largely for antagonist roles, Tilak takes on a cop’s uniform this time, though not without hesitation.
“When I first heard Usiru (Breath), I thought it sounded soft,” Tilak admits. “But as the shooting progressed, I realised the title carries a much bigger meaning. This isn’t just a murder mystery—it’s layered, with family emotions, friendship, and suspense woven together. I play a cop, but at the point another antagonist gets into the mix, the clash drives the narrative forward.”
The film also marks the debut of producer Lakshmi Harish. “This is my first time producing, but I’m not alone,” she says. “There are many women with me. If this film wins, we all win. When Prabhakar narrated the story, I immediately connected with it. Everybody has put effort, and we hope to see good results. Making her big-screen debut, Priya Hegde embraces a role with unexpected turns.
“My character has multiple shades,” she shares. “She brings a twist that changes the entire rhythm of the film. And being part of a project led by a woman producer was inspiring.” Usiru has music by RS Ganesh Narayanan, who recalls his journey coming full circle. “I made my debut 25 years ago with Heart Beats. And now, here I am again, composing for a film titled Usiru, which also means heartbeats. All the songs are situational, each character has a theme, and lyricist Bhairava Rama has written with soul. There’s even an experimental number—'Ninagaagi Naanu'," says Narayanan. With cinematography handled by a Chennai-based team, editing by Harish Komme (Monsoon Raaga, Head Bush), and distribution by Shalini Arts, Usiru is gearing up for a release across more than 40 theaters.