Thiagarajan Kumararaja Discusses His Anticipated Film 'Super Deluxe'
A Long-Awaited Follow-Up
After nearly a decade since his debut film, Aaranya Kaandam, Tamil director Thiagarajan Kumararaja has been actively engaged in various projects. The 42-year-old filmmaker has been involved in writing screenplays, crafting lyrics, and directing commercials while working on his next feature.
The Cult Classic Legacy
Aaranya Kaandam is regarded as one of the most remarkable debut films by an Indian director in recent years. Its unique blend of narrative style, unconventional characters, and the vibrant Chennai dialect set a high bar for Kumararaja's subsequent works.
Introducing 'Super Deluxe'
Kumararaja's upcoming film, Super Deluxe, is set to release soon and promises to deliver a mix of genre-defying storytelling. This anthology film intertwines various narratives that may not seem connected at first glance, featuring a diverse cast of both established actors and newcomers.
A Star-Studded Cast
The film showcases Tamil cinema's current standout star, Vijay Sethupathi, in the role of Shilpa, a transwoman. Other notable cast members include Fahadh Faasil and Samantha Akkineni, who portray a couple dealing with a corpse, alongside a group of teenagers whose escapades lead them to confront a gangster. The film also features a Christian preacher grappling with his faith after a tragic accident involving his son.
A Day in Chennai
Super Deluxe unfolds over a day and a half, primarily during daylight hours in various indoor settings across Chennai. The story is set around 2004, with the tsunami serving as a pivotal plot element, while pop culture references harken back to the 1980s. The film's title hints at a richly layered experience filled with both familiar and unexpected elements.
Exploring the Film's Unique Style
The film's humor, leisurely pacing, and surreal situations create a narrative where seemingly little occurs, yet much is happening beneath the surface. Kumararaja shared insights about Super Deluxe during a recent interview in Mumbai.
The Journey to 'Super Deluxe'
When asked about the long gap between films, Kumararaja explained that he initially worked on a larger project that ultimately fell through due to budget constraints. This led him to write a more manageable film that he could produce independently. His collaboration with Vijay Sethupathi began when the actor expressed interest in the role of Shilpa, which significantly expanded the film's scope.
Casting Challenges and Triumphs
Kumararaja noted that casting stars in unconventional roles is more straightforward in Chennai, where connections often lead to fruitful collaborations. He reached out to actors like Fahadh and Samantha, who were enthusiastic about their roles, with Samantha embracing the challenge of her character.
Collaborative Writing Process
The film features contributions from three other writers, allowing for diverse perspectives and enriching the narrative. Kumararaja described the writing process as a collaborative effort, where each writer added their unique touch to the story.
Non-Linear Storytelling
Kumararaja prefers to delve into the intricacies of life rather than create sweeping sagas. He enjoys exploring the nuances of human experiences, employing a non-linear narrative style that juxtaposes different characters' stories to evoke varied emotions.
A Hyper-Real Experience
The film's title reflects its intention to offer viewers a subjective experience, where each individual may interpret the visuals differently. Kumararaja aims to create a metaphor for reality, using nostalgia and cultural references to enhance the storytelling.
Cinematic Influences
Kumararaja's deep connection to cinema is evident in the film's numerous pop culture references. He reminisced about the impact of film as a primary entertainment medium during his youth, highlighting its significance in shaping his artistic sensibilities.
Crafting a Unique World
The film's aesthetic is designed to evoke an analogue feel, with a focus on saturated colors and textures that transport viewers to a different time and place. Kumararaja's choice of locations and character dialogue further enhances the film's sense of alienation.
Intimate Storytelling
Most of Super Deluxe takes place indoors or in narrow alleyways, avoiding wide shots of Chennai to immerse the audience directly into the drama. The film's visual style emphasizes depth and texture, creating a rich viewing experience.
Length and Pacing
Kumararaja expressed his desire for audiences to fully engage with the film's moments, resisting the urge to cut for brevity. He believes that allowing viewers to linger on scenes fosters a deeper emotional connection.
Navigating Censorship
With Super Deluxe potentially attracting the attention of censors, Kumararaja hopes they will recognize the film's artistic intentions rather than viewing it as provocative. He aims for an Adult certification to ensure creative freedom.
A Collective Movement
Kumararaja is part of a collective of directors creating unconventional films that reflect urban Chennai experiences. He emphasized the organic nature of their collaboration, driven by shared sensibilities rather than a formal group.