Supriya and our daughter do not like me directing films, says Prithviraj

Actor Prithviraj Sukumaran, who is awaiting the release of his next directorial venture, 'Empuraan,' credits screen icon Mohanlal for making him a director. He said that Mohanlal agreed to do a mega movie like 'Lucifer' when everyone expressed doubts about his directing skills. Speaking at the teaser launch of 'Empuraan' in Kochi, Prithviraj noted that he cannot forget the support he received from Mohanlal while making 'Empuraan.'

“I feel stressed when actors say they trust the director, as I am just a beginner who has directed only my third movie. People say I am not a trained director, but I have learned filmmaking. I learned filmmaking as I worked with all these directors who are here. Each scene and shot on their sets was like a private tuition for me. People often ask me about the person who has inspired me. Many were curious whether Hollywood movies were my inspiration, as the story of 'Empuraan' takes place in foreign countries. However, Joshiy sir, Shaji sir, and Sathyan sir, who are here today, are my real inspirations,” said Prithviraj.

Prithviraj confessed that his wife, Supriya, and daughter do not like him directing movies as it requires him to stay away from home for extended periods. The actor often stays away from his family for months due to the demands of the filmmaking process. He noted that, if he is acting, he can visit his family more frequently during breaks. Meanwhile, he shared how his daughter eagerly asks whether he will be acting or directing next.

“Those who dare to dream big may seem a bit crazy, and I used to proclaim with confidence that no one is as crazy as I am. But there is one person who is more passionate than I am, and that is Antony Perumbavoor. He was the one who could visualise the concept of the movie from the beginning itself. It was at Aashirvad’s office in Dubai that I narrated the script of 'Empuraan' to Antony and Lalettan. Mohanlal said, ‘Antony, this guy is casually mentioning a few helicopters.’ He clearly understood the film during that narration. Although Antony sometimes wondered where the film was heading, my greatest strength was having a producer like him. Thank you for bearing with me. Let us do another big movie after this,” said Prithviraj.

The actor-director noted that he wouldn’t have become a filmmaker if it weren’t for Mohanlal, crediting the screen icon as his driving force when there was no guarantee for a movie like 'Lucifer.'

Prithviraj also recalled the challenges 'Empuraan' faced due to adverse weather conditions, which were unlike any other movie. The crew had planned to shoot the climax sequence in Gujarat during a time when Mohanlal was extremely busy. However, Mohanlal ended up stuck there for weeks due to heavy rains. Prithviraj shared how bad he felt when informing Mohanlal that shooting had to be cancelled because of the downpour. Nevertheless, Mohanlal was incredibly supportive, consoling Prithviraj and encouraging him to focus on the film’s quality. Prithviraj, who calls himself an accidental director, reiterated that he wouldn’t have become a director without Mohanlal’s support.

“The incredible success of 'Lucifer' is the main reason why 'Empuraan' was made. I am someone who believes that mine is the best team in the world. The team that worked with me has the potential to handle even bigger movies in any cinema industry around the world.

I didn’t meet Murali Gopi with the intention of directing 'Lucifer.' The story of 'Lucifer' came up while we were working together on another movie. We knew then that the story couldn’t be fully narrated in just one film. But sequels weren’t common in those days, and people might have been sceptical if we pitched the idea of multiple sequels.

While making the first part, we decided not to reveal anything about the sequel as we wanted to gauge the response to 'Lucifer.' So, I would like to thank the audience for the incredible success of 'Lucifer.' I have the same to say about the third part of 'Lucifer.' The third part could only be announced after seeing the response to 'Empuraan.' I hope this sequel becomes a big hit,” said Prithviraj.

The actor hinted that the third part of the movie will be bigger than the previous two films. He added that the third part could only be conceived if 'Empuraan' becomes a grand success. However, Prithviraj noted that a third part was inevitable to wrap up the story.
“We ended 'Lucifer' at a point where a sequel might not have been required. But I can say that 'Empuraan' ends with clear hints of a third part because viewers might feel curious to know more. I hope the audience supports us so we can come up with a third part,” Prithviraj said.