But, the going is tough for the team. The movie takes a dig at politicians and the erosion of values in politics. And this portrayal seems to have irked many.

Sreekumar Sreyas, scriptwriter of the movie, received a phone call from a stranger recently. “The caller threatened me for trying to highlight certain live issues on screen. I also received a similar call before the release of the movie,” he said.

The makers of Of the People are planning to lodge a complaint with the police on the incident. Jayaraj said the movie draws inspiration from various incidents reported in the media during the last one year. “It includes the demolition drive and its sudden death in Munnar. The movie also maps the story of the pathetic condition of roads in the State and reports of corruption behind road works.”

Made under his own banner ‘New Generation Cinema,’ Jayaraj says it is difficult to find a producer for experimental movies. Besides, producers are hesitant to take youngsters in lead roles.

Pointing out that satellite rights of movies had gone up considerably, he said a superstar movie in Malayalam might fetch up to Rs. 1 crore rights these days. But the producer will not get the benefit, as the stars had increased their salary commensurate with the hike in satellite and other rights.

Of the People has Govind, Harshan, Sudhir, Arun, Arjun, Padmakumar, Shafeeq and Devipriya in lead roles. Pradeep Padmanabhan handles the art department. Tanu Balak cranks the camera and Vinu Thomas scores the music.

The director’s debut Tamil movie Sila Nerangal will hit the theatres soon. Vincent Ashok and Navya Nair play lead roles in the movie scheduled for Pongal release. He has also projects in Malayalam with lead actors this year.

G. Krishnakumar

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