Priyadarshan is in Thiruvananthapuram for the censoring of his latest film ‘Corona Papers.’ The film is an experimental one featuring Shane Nigam, Shine Tom Chacko, and Lal Jr. Priyan who has made 95 films in the last 42 years talks about his latest film.
How was your experience directing the new generation of actors?
A lot of people had warned me that it would be difficult to work with the new generation of actors and that they are very dismissive towards senior directors. But I was able to finish the shoot within 40 days and it was as smooth as working with my own children. The experience was very interesting. The new generation of actors are very professional. There is no point in lamenting that the new generation of actors are disrespectful towards the seniors. Times have changed. We need to change our attitude.
What’s special about Corona Papers?
This is a crime thriller set during the Covid times. It is a small film, and we are not making any tall claims. It is a film I haven’t attempted before. There is no Mohanlal or MG Sreekumar songs or humour. I wrote and produced it. So even if it is a flop or a hit, I don’t need to be accountable to anyone.
Some directors will have their signatures on their films. My films don’t have that. I am someone who makes all kinds of films. With the inclusion of new technicians and stars, this film became different. Instead of finding faults with everything the new generation is doing, I think you should learn from them. I am still learning.
When I was younger I used to criticize films a lot. In the last 42 years, I have heard a lot of compliments and criticisms. My only request is that please show some decency when you criticize.
Which are your new films?
I have decided not to do any big-budget films in Malayalam. I am going to direct two Hindi films now. First will be a comedy film produced by Venus, featuring five elderly characters. The second will be an Akshay Kumar film. Malayalam film will come only after that.
As long as cinema needs me I will keep doing films. I don’t know any other job. I will continue to be in this profession till my expiry date. But now I don’t have my earlier health. Though cinema has advanced technologically we still can't make films avoiding rain, snow, and sun. We have to climb hills and mountains to reach locations. Technology cannot replace these things.
I am not very aware of the changing audience tastes. I am releasing each film with trepidation. Now there is no point in going back to the old style of filmmaking.
