Kerala - Kochi   

Kochi works its charm on the film industry

Guess which are the favourite locations of the Malayalam film industry in Kochi these days. Every new film under production has at least a frame shot either near FACT Udyogmandal or close to Bolghatty Palace and Fort Kochi.

Be it Mammootty's forthcoming venture `Bhargavacharitham Moonamkhandam' or Dileep's Onam release `The Don,' the Malayalam film industry seems to have developed a liking for the picturesque commercial capital of Kerala.

The area around FACT Udyogmandal is among the most popular locations in Kochi. Filmmakers are rushing to the spot, thanks to the calm and quiet ambience.

"All the films that were made in Kochi during the past few months had scenes shot at several spots in this area. New productions are also filmed in this locale," says A.S. Dinesh, publicity coordinator for Malayalam films. FACT Ambalamedu premises also figure in Mollywood's sought-after locations.

These spots have nearly everything a director looks out for in an outdoor location. From schools to lots of open spaces, these locations are a delight to those who want to can a variety of visuals for their films. For stunt directors and choreographers, these places offer enough space and backdrop for action and dance sequences.

Locations in Kochi also offer production controllers a lot of opportunities, including a control on the cost of production. "Kochi has spots that provide both city and rustic atmosphere on screen. By travelling a few kilometres from the city, you will get locations that suit films shot in the backdrop of a village," says Seven Arts Mohan, production controller.

"Hotels in the city charge reasonable rates from the industry people. We can also select from a wide range of tariffs. The connectivity factor is another advantage. Being centrally located, the place can be easily accessed from other parts of the State. Directors, actors and technicians also prefer working here," says Mr. Mohan.

To get a different angle and feel, filmmakers are also moving to places such as Kumbalanghi and Kakanad.

Netto's Bungalow and Kalapurackal House in Fort Kochi, a few houses in and around Kakanad and Alinchuvadu, the main road leading to Panampilly Nagar and the streets of Mattancherry are some of the other favourite haunts of the film industry. Kochi backwaters dotted by the green islands also add charm to the films shot here.

G. Krishnakumar

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