Antony Varghese joins Aanaparambile World Cup

It seems to be a good time for sports-based films. Following Rajisha Vijayan’s Finals (in post-production) and Indrajith’s Aaha (recently launched), another one has been announced.

Titled Aanaparambile World Cup (AWC), the film will have Antony Varghese playing the main lead. This is Antony’s fourth film after Angamaly Diaries, Swathandriyam Ardarathriyil, and Jallikettu. The title announcement and audition process were held yesterday in Kochi.

Debutant Nikhil Premraj will be directing his own script. The filmmaker has earlier worked as an associate in several films including Kuttanpillayude Shivarathri and Angels, aside from several ads.

Talking to CE about the film, Nikhil says they’re going for an upbeat, motivational vibe. “In terms of mood, we’re aiming for a Dangal or a Chak De. The story will have a blend of football and fantasy elements, in addition to a romance track.

The film, set in Malabar, will be told from the perspective of a child—a Lionel Messi fan—who encounters Antony’s character, a Santosh Trophy winner, selected in the Kerala Blasters team. “Antony is essentially playing a mentor to a group of football-obsessed kids,” reveals Nikhil. An audition to cast the child artistes is currently underway.

Manoj K Jayan, Saiju Kurup, Balu Varghese, and IM Vijayan are expected to play major supporting roles. A final confirmed cast list, however, is still awaited.

Faiz Siddik, who worked as an assistant cameraman on the Samyuktha Menon-starrer Lilli, is making his debut as director of photography with AWC.

Ishq screenwriter Ratheesh Ravi will be lending creative support while Jakes Bejoy will work on the music and background score. The editing will be handled by Noufal Abdullah (Sudani from Nigeria, Anuraga Karikkin Vellam).

The film is bankrolled by Faizal Latheef and Stanley CS. The makers are hoping for a December-January release.