“Two things are infinite: the universe and human stupidity; and I’m not sure about the universe,” is a quote attributed to Albert Einstein. According to debutant director Ajith Pillai, these lines are relevant to his film Mosayile Kuthirameenukal , the shooting of which is underway on the FACT premises at Ambalamugal, Kochi.
The scene being canned has the film’s male leads, Asif Ali and Sunny Wayne, talking to a cop. As the camera shifts to him, Asif asks, “Saaru kuthirameen thinnittundo?” (‘Have you tasted swordfish?’), with Sunny stifling a chuckle.
The two then move on, leaving the cop confused. Cinematographer Abhinandan Ramanujam of Amen fame has set the camera in an angle that captures the cop’s bewildered look when the shot ends.
“The story is based on a sailing trip that these two young men take from Kochi to Lakshadweep. ‘Mosa’ in Lakshadweep lingo means big waves while ‘Kuthirameenukal’ mean swordfish. These varieties of fish are known for their selfish traits, just like the characters in this film. The lead characters are going through a turbulence in their lives and that could be a reason why they are selfish,” says Ajith, who is the writer-cum-director.
Ajith goes on to say that the film is a feel good entertainer with some thrilling moments. “Lakshadweep has always fascinated me. My fascination for the waters around the island has prompted me to base my maiden venture there. We are spending quite a bit of money on graphics to help enhance the story,” says Ajith.
Asif Ali is awaiting the release of Pakida and Bicycle Thieves. He says his character, Alex, “is a moody person and has served time for a minor offence.”
Sunny Wayne plays Akbar Ali, a native of Lakshadweep. Sunny has never sought the hero role as yet. He says: “More than the tag of a hero, it is the depth of my characters which excites me.”
Andrea Jeremiah, whom we saw in Annayum Rasoolum , plays Isa, a girl from Lakshadweep.
Mosayile Kuthirameenukal is being produced by Niyas Ismail and Jinno, under the banner of Frames Inevitable. Prashanth Pillai is the music director.
