The Hindu : Tamil Nadu / Chennai News : A dream comes true

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Saturday, May 03, 2008
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Tamil Nadu

Tamil Nadu - Chennai

A dream comes true

Staff Reporter

— Photo: R. Shivaji Rao

Actors Daniel Balaji, Lakshmi Rai, Manjari and Nithin Sathya at the launch in Chennai on Friday.

CHENNAI: It was a poignant moment for his family and friends, who were all there to see his dream translate to reality. About a year after noted cinematographer-director Jeeva passed away, his wife Anees announced the launch of Vision Jeeva Studios’ first project, ‘Muthirai’, here on Friday.

With A.S.A. Production partnering in the production, the film, is to be directed by Jeeva’s assistant Srinath. Saleem, also from the Jeeva school, will handle the camera. The film has actors Daniel Balaji, Nithin Sathya, Lakshmi Rai and Manjari playing the lead roles. Yuvan Shankar Raja will score the music.

Anees said she was touched when she learnt from Srinath that Jeeva had once told him that when he started a production house, he would ask him direct a film for him.

It was special that ace cinematographer P.C. Sreeram and renowned ad filmmaker P. Jayendra, who Jeeva and Anees started their careers with, were present.

“Jeeva was more than just an assistant cameraman … he was a dear friend. After I saw his Unnalae..Unnalae.. I was totally impressed and I messaged him saying how well he had done. In a month’s time, I heard about his passing away … it was a personal blow,” Mr. Sreeram said.

“His dedication, passion and wisdom brought him success. Anees will carry the torch now,” he added.

Mr. Jayendra recalled Jeeva’s untiring efforts as an assistant cameraman. “He never said no to anything ... such was his passion,” he said.

Even after huge hits and subsequent stardom, Jeeva remained his simple, modest self. “He came to my office to check the digital quality of Unnalae..Unnalae and he wouldn’t sit in front of me,” he said.

Actor Vikram, a close friend of Jeeva’s family members, reminisced their initial years in the industry, when as eager youngsters, they were determined to do something different and make an impression.

“We later went our ways. I’ve always admired his talent. I particularly like the way he presents songs. The colour he uses, the feel and energy he lends are just amazing,” he said. Vikram Bhatt of A.S.A. productions said he was very happy to be associated with the team.

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