Parthiban Ravi (extreme left) with Mani Ratnam and Gautham Menon
Why filmmaking? How did your journey commence ?
Until Vinnaithaandi Varuvaayaa happened, I did not seriously consider pursuing filmmaking. But after watching that film, I decided filmmaking is what I want to do. I never imagined even in my wildest dreams that I would work as assistant director under the one who inspired me!
What’s the oddest thing you have done as an assistant director?
Once at a shooting spot, I was consciously putting in effort to ensure that no part of the filming was being recorded on mobile phones. But some members of the crowd made me believe it was being recorded, and got me running back and forth.
His spontaneity. He runs multiple versions of certain sequences from the script, as a film in his mind.
What have you learned from him?
His ability to extract the best from everyone without forceful exertion is the one lesson that I am trying to learn from him.
Also, he respects the learning process that every Assistant Director undergoes. He doesn’t yell when we make mistakes.
What do you want to change about Tamil cinema?
The appeal that films with unnecessary mass elements have. I think the focus should be on giving the commercial elements a natural, subtle touch. Cinema should create mindsets, not heroes.
What’s one thing that you would like to bring to Tamil cinema?
I want to introduce the concept of cine series. This is where a movie series follows the system of season-wise release. Franchises are a different ball game as they take years before the next part can come out. It is not necessary here that continuity exist between the first and the subsequent parts.
Which is the best film you’ve worked on so far?
Dhruva Natchathiram. The experience of working in it has been immense and it’s provided me with many memorable moments and good lessons.
Who’s a director you wish you could work with?
Anurag Kashyap.
What are your future and upcoming projects?
I am working on the script of a crime-comedy.
Debut films are often the result of compromises. What’s one area you will never be willing to compromise on?
No compromise on what the essence of the original script demands. But I wouldn’t mind compromising on the casting.
What’s the dream cast of your debut film?
One actor. Vijay Sethupathi. I think he will bring a unique dimension to my film and breathe sensibilities no one else can.
Parthiban Ravi
Working under:
Gautham Menon
Films working on:
Dhruva Natchathiram, Enai Noki Paayum Thota
Main responsibilities:
Worked with the art department earlier.
Now responsible for:
casting and costumes
Source: The New Indian Express