I have the right to opine on films, says Kamal

Director Kamal found himself in the eye of a storm recently over a few remarks he made about the film Premam.
In a candid interview, the filmmaker speaks about his upcoming Mammootty-starrer Utopyayile Rajavu, his views on what a good film is and more, besides clarifying on the controversial comments.
Tell us about your film Utopyayile Rajavu
It is a socio-political satirical film which merges fantasy and reality.It has a different narrative style, and we have tried to incorporate comical elements into it. The film delves deep into the concept called Utopia which is a figment of imagination; where everything is perfect, and every dream is fulfilled. The film is about a similar place and people.
What is Mammootty’s role in the film?
In a fictional land called Kokranghara resides CP Swanthantran, a character which is beautifully essayed by Mammukka. The character he plays is that of a purehearted simpleton, who does not know what life is and how to survive. The follies and troubles which he lands into because of his idiosyncrasies give way to a comical treat.
The combination of Mammooty and Kamal comes after a hiatus. What held you back from coming together for so long?
There is no specific reason for it. We have always done films after a gap. We did Mazhayethum Munbe and Azhagiya Ravanan in the initial phase. However, for Raappakal and Karutha Pakshikal, it took some time.
We have heard a lot about your relationship with Mammooty…
I have known Mammooty for more than 35 years, even before we came to the film industry. We took different paths to achieve what we wanted, and eventually I started directing films with him in the lead role. The rapport we share with each other has not changed since then. While shooting, we have a free exchange of what we feel about a particular scene. There has not been a situation, when we have had an argument. Being the exemplary actor that he is, you know what he is going to do. With the immense potential and experience that he possesses, there is no need for me to tell him how the shot should look like.
While both you and Mammooty are joining hands for Utopyayile Rajavu, your son Jenuse Mohammed directed Mammootty’s son Dulquer in 100 Days of Love and garnered wide appreciation. How does it feel?
I am really happy about it. I had plans to release my film at the same time as Jenuse’s, but because of certain reasons we could not. Just like Mammotty and me, Dulquer and Jenuse too share a beautiful chemistry.
Your recent comments on the film Premam had received a lot of criticism…
I felt sad that my remarks were completely misunderstood and taken out of context. No matter how great a film is, I think I have the right to express my opinion. In fact, everybody does, and I too am a public viewer.
What I wanted to convey was that piracy is a social evil which has been existing for a long time now. All of a sudden, there was an unprecedented hype and focus on this particular film being subject to piracy, from the part of the media, police and other members in the industry. The action taken was right, of course. But I just want to know why the media has been selective in this regard and is glorifying a film which gave out a wrong message, where in a student falls in love with a teacher. My films never had such messages.
What do you think about Malayalam cinema today? Has it become progressive or the other way round?
Malayalam cinema surely has advanced, when you consider the technological advancement and the actors and directors for the talent that they bring forth. Several films might be making waves in theatres and turning into blockbusters. But I feel that many of them are made on a use and throw concept. I am not referring only to the ‘new generation’ films alone. Films should not be a mere source of entertainment; a good film is one which leaves a lasting impact on its viewers, like our classics. How long a film lingers in the minds of people is what makes it a real success.