"From writing short stories in school to scripting blockbuster films—this is my journey!"
Q. Your films have captivated the audiences with their unique blend of storytelling and social commentary.What sparked your passion for storytelling, and how do you think your experiences have shaped the narratives they create?
My school days paved the way for artistry and creativity in me. I had been an active participant in the youth festivals and cultural fests held in my school. I participated in events like mimicry, monoact, and drama and won prizes at the state level.
My family has been a constant support.They encouraged and motivated me to perform in more stage competitions.And all this laid the foundation for my passion for cinema and storytelling.
From my childhood onwards, I have been a huge cinephile.I grew up watching lots and lots of movies of our legendary actors.It influenced me greatly to step into the world of cinema.
I loved writing short stories in my school days. By the time I reached 12th std, I began to look at it seriously. It was during my college days that I took a more broadened initiative towards cinema.
In each semester, I worked along with my college mates to make more than 10 short films. During that period, each and every one of us took the roles of actors, directors, and all that. This experience provided me with a lot of great insights regarding cinema.
All my college mates who were included in that group are presently active in the film industry. Devadath Shaji, the writer of the famous movie ‘Bheeshmaparvam’ and Paulson Skaria, who served as my co-writer for the films 'Kathal-The Core’ and ‘Neymar’ were some of the members of that gang.
Able, who is currently writing a script, Harikrishnan and Shivakumar, who have done some great character roles in some of the Malayalam films, were also a part of that gang.
I can proudly say that all of us who strived hard to make those short films have now found a shore in the industry. Thus our college period played an indelible experience in each of our lives.
Right after my graduation, I wrote my first script along with my friend Able. Even though it didn't make it to the big screen, it motivated me to move forward. Gradually, I started working in some channel shows, and I got some excellent opportunities for acting in some of the films.
I gave my best at it. It was through this I made a small film circle.I built some connections with people in the industry. Gradually, discussions started to go on, and it was after the phase of COVID-19 that I got my first offer for scripting for Kathal. At that time, Paulson and I decided to work together on a script, which led to ‘Kathal’. I felt a lot of excitement and happiness then as my years of hard work paid off.
Q. Your films, Kathal: The Core, Neymar, and RDX, showcase your versatility in handling different genres.What drives your creative process when writing scripts for diverse genres?
Actually, I don't forethink about any genres to write about. It all happens naturally. My approach to writing is to search for new ideas and develop them into a good plot. When I get a nice storyline, I try to make a well-crafted story out of it.
And ultimately, it would fit it into one or the other genres. This is how the process goes. All of the films that I have done till now have gone through the same process.
My next movie will be of a new genre, and it will be quite different from my previous movies. I don’t plan anything beforehand. It all starts to happen once I get an interesting and entertaining thread to develop.
Q. Kathal: The Core tackles the sensitive topic of homosexuality. What motivated you to address this subject, and how did you approach writing the script to ensure authenticity and sensitivity?
‘Kathal: The Core’ happened in my surviving period. Initially, I didn’t have any plans to write a film like it. It was in the phase of COVID-19 when everything stood still; I and my co-writer, Paulson, decided to work together on a script. We put our thinking caps on, thought of lots of ideas, and eventually reached ‘Kathal’.
It was from a story of two gangsters told by one of Paulson’s friends; we got influenced. From that story, a brilliant thread occurred to us, and we eventually developed it into the film. As I said earlier, we didn’t have any plans beforehand to make a really thought-provoking drama like ‘Kathal'. But our thought processes ultimately led us to the film.
Simultaneously, we started to work on the script of ‘Neymar’ after we got the call from the director Sudhi Maddison. It was also at the same time when director Nahas Hidayath approached me to write 'RDX' along with Shabas Rasheed. Thus, three of the films were penned at the same time.
Q. Who or what are some of your biggest creative influences, and how have they shaped your approach to scriptwriting?
I have been deeply influenced by both films and individuals in the industry.But, if you ask me, the movies I’ve watched take first place. The entertaining and soulful dramas I watched growing up have obviously accelerated my thoughts and passion for writing.
Later on, many legends in the Malayalam film industry motivated me to develop a creative vision and innovativeness. It includes the legendary names of A.K. Lohithadas, Dennis Joseph, Ranjith, and many more.
Q. Can you share any details about your upcoming projects or scripts you’re currently working on?
Regarding my upcoming projects, I cannot say much about them as the official announcement is yet to come. But I can assure you that it is going to be a big project.
A Mollywood superstar will be starring as the lead. This is a project I look forward to with great anticipation. After that, 3 to 4 projects are in the pipeline, and discussions are going on.
Q. If you could switch lives with one of your characters for a day, who would it be and why?
That would be difficult to answer. It will be like you are asking a parent to choose one from their 3 kids. But regarding the characters I wrote:
In real life, if I were in the place of ‘Mathew’ (one of the lead characters from Kathal), I don’t know how I would survive in society. Even though I created ‘Mathew’ it will be unthinkable for me to go through the same situations Mathew has gone through.
But his emotions and the struggles he dealt with have deeply influenced me. ‘Omana’ (one of the lead characters from Kathal) has also created a strong influence on me. If I switch my life with any one of them, I am not sure if I would be able to handle the rollercoaster of emotions they felt.
I think I may become ‘Dony’ of the movie RDX, who is fond of boxing. I loved his action sequences in the film. Or I may become ‘Shinto’ from the movie ‘Neymar’ who loves to travel more.
Q. What’s the most memorable feedback or compliment you’ve received?
I have got plenty of such moments. One of them is the compliment I got from Suriya Sir. He called me after watching Kathal and extended his wishes to me. I consider that moment as one of the greatest blessings I have ever received in my life.
And after I got the Kerala State Award for the Best Story, Mammootty Sir called me to congratulate me. It was a dream come true moment for me. And above all these, I remember my family being really proud of me after they had watched ‘Kathal.’.
Their words, “It’s a great film you have made. Keep up the good work” has got engraved on my heart. These are some of the invaluable treasures, which I wish to cherish through my whole life.
BIO
Adarsh Sukumaran is a multi-talented Indian artist from Kerala. He is a writer, actor, and journalist. Born in Kerala, Adarsh graduated from Mar Athanasius College in Kothamangalam and later pursued a postgraduate degree in journalism from the Kerala Media Academy in Kochi.
As a writer, Adarsh has penned several notable films, including "Kaathal - The Core," "RDX," and "Neymar." His film "Kaathal - The Core" won prestigious awards at the Kerala State Film Awards, including Best Story, Best Film, and Best Background Score.
Adarsh has also made a name for himself in the acting world, with roles in over 12 films. Additionally, he has appeared on popular comedy shows like "Comedy Ulsavam" on Flowers TV, "Comedy Stars" on Asianet, and "Comedy Circus" on Mazhavil Manorama.
Professionally, Adarsh works as a sub editor for various online channels, leveraging his journalism background.
Interviewed By Irene Elina Eldhose
.jpeg)
0 Comments