First time filmmaker Narthan’s movie
Mufti
is arguably one of the most eagerly awaited films of this year. With the combination of cousins
Shivarajkumar
and
Sriimurali onscreen for the first time, the expectations only increase.
Narthan, though, exudes calmness during the release week of the film, as he made time from the last leg of work in Chennai to talk to us.
“I’ve known Sriimurali for a long time, we’ve worked together in his previous two projects. When he came with the offer for me to direct a film, I was excited, but I also explained how I’d need time, which may be a few years, to get the right story and cannot begin work immediately. What was amazing was how Sriimurali assured me he would wait till I had my complete script,” says Narthan, adding that this was when he also came up with the character of Shivarajkumar.
When asked about what prompted the story of Mufti, Narthan says, “A couple of characters and situations in real-life prompted it, which can be understood if one sees the film. I have never wanted to finish a film just because I’ve an opportunity and get that director tag. I waited it out, and ensured that I got the right script till I was satisfied when I had the opportunity rather than make a rushed effort. What I can assure is that this film is going to be something different and possibly new for
Kannada
cinema. The concept of how a
cop
and a don can emotionally get connected was what excited me when I was writing this film. We usually see a cop hit a don or vice versa, but this film explores the relationship when they are emotionally blended.”
Given that he has two stars playing the lead, was it ever challenging for him to balance the two? “I initially wondered if that would be a challenge, but they were very encouraging and cooperative. Both of them supported me without taking in the fact that I am a debutant director. The film may have stars, but they blend into the script rather than overpower it. The stars, the script and the technicians all blend together and that has what has made Mufti what it is,” assures Narthan.