For a first-time director, the journey from concept to screen is often a leap into the unknown. With Green, that journey has been extraordinary. This psychological mind-bending thriller has travelled the festival circuit for over a year, winning nineteen awards along the way. Produced by Raaj Vijay and BN Swamy under Bourn Films and Savika Enterprises, presented by Gunadya Production, and distributed by Ravi Films, Green is now set to reach Kannada audiences in theatres on October 23.
What makes this debut remarkable is not only its global recognition, but the way it blends suspense, emotion, and visual storytelling into a cohesive, thought-provoking experience. From a forest that seems alive to characters whose fears mirror our own, the film explores the fine line between reality and imagination.
In an exclusive conversation, the director shares insights on the inspiration behind Green, the symbolism in its title, the meticulous casting process, and the philosophy guiding this ambitious debut.
Excerpts:
Green has won nineteen awards across international film festivals. Why release it in theatres now?
The content in Green has always kept me motivated. The recognition it received at festivals, awards for best thriller and best psychological mind-bending thriller, drove us forward. Bringing it to theatres now feels right. The film has been celebrated worldwide, accepted by top juries, and even subtitled versions were appreciated. Kannada audiences deserve to experience it firsthand.
The title Green sounds symbolic. What does it represent?
The forest in the film is almost a character, reflecting the colours and emotions we wanted to capture. Rather than calling it a forest story, we represented it through universal green. The title itself, half green and half dry, mirrors the core conflict and emotional undertone of the film. It is both symbolic and universal.
Why choose a psychological mind-bending thriller for a debut instead of a commercial genre?
There is a saying in writing: either you confuse or you convince. I wanted the first film to make an impact. Audiences often remember a director’s debut, and it sets the tone for future films. Green had to answer questions for future projects while holding faith and creating an impact. It felt important to challenge both the audience and the filmmaker.
The cast includes Gopal Krishna Deshpande, Balaji Manohar, RJ Vikki, Vishwanath Mandalika, Shiva Manju, Dimpy Fadhya, Murudaiah Ramachandra, and Girish. How were these actors chosen?
Every role and face had to be memorable. Each character wears just one costume, so there are no distractions. Choosing actors was a long process because we needed unique faces that would stay with the audience. Every character had to feel alive and integral to the story.
There is a mysterious mask in the film. Who is behind it, and what does it represent?
Every element, from actors to the forest and surroundings, carries its own perception. Every scene connects metaphorically. The mask is part of that language. The only way to truly understand its meaning is to watch the story unfold from beginning to end.
There is a palpable fear and confusion in the characters. Is it real or psychological?
The threat is real, but fear is explored deeply. There is a horror undertone and a psychological edge. Curiosity drives the narrative, and unpredictability keeps the audience engaged. The thrill comes from both the mind and the external tension.
The story runs between reality and imagination. How was this approached?
The line between reality and imagination is thin but intentional. The film is thought-provoking and designed to stay in the audience’s mind long after the theatre lights come on. It balances the tangible and the psychological, creating a lingering impact.
During the festival rounds, what feedback did you receive?
People often asked, “How did you crack this?” The curiosity and engagement were encouraging. Now it is about letting the Kannada audience decode it. I trust viewers to explore the layers built into the story.
Green talks about the monster within. How did actors connect to this idea?
The actors understood how the inner monster controls us and how we, in turn, control it. Green gives clarity about human nature, fear, and introspection. It is subtle but powerful.
How would you describe the purpose of Green?
It entertains, questions, and provokes thought. The sound design by Francis Xavier enhances the thriller experience. Cinematography by K Madhusudhan, the VFX, and the use of real locations blend technology with reality. It gives the film the feel of a big-budget production while keeping the storytelling intimate and human.
How does this film shape your journey as a director?
Cinema is world-building. With Green, the aim is to create a multiverse where characters remain at the center, explored across different subjects. This is just the beginning. The goal is to keep building layered, engaging universes while keeping audiences invested in the characters and their journeys.
What should audiences take away from Green?
Immerse yourself fully. Feel the tension, fear, subtle emotions, and metaphors in every scene. It is a film that stays with you, makes you think, question, and feel. Above all, it is about enjoying the ride. This is a world designed with care and intention.
