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#IFFIWood, 28 November 2024

One is a motivating tale of resilience and optimism, illustrating the shift from a simple life in a Kerala village to enduring the struggles of bondage in a distant country. The other delves into a significant social concern of infertility, affecting contemporary couples due to lifestyle changes and climate impact. The two remarkable Malayalam films, Aadujeevitham and Thanupp, have captivated the audience at the 55^th  International Film Festival of India (IFFI) in Goa.

In a press conference held today, cast and crew of the two films addressed the media, sharing insights into the creative process and the profound themes explored in their works.

Aadujeevitham: A Story of Survival and Hope

Directed by the acclaimed filmmaker Blessy, Aadujeevitham is a harrowing survival story based on the bestselling novel by Benyamin. The film follows Najib, who leaves his family in Kerala in search of a better life in the Middle East, only to find himself enslaved in a goat farm. Stripped of his identity, Najib fights against all the odds to preserve his spirit, finding solace in the bonds he forms with the goats and camels in the farm.

Blessy, in his address, shared the profound impact the story had on him, highlighting how the tale of Najib, a man who endures unimaginable hardships, is a reflection of the struggles faced by many. He expressed his gratitude for the overwhelming response the film has received at IFFI, calling it a story not just of survival, but of hope.

Gokul K. R, who plays one of the central characters, Hakim, spoke about the intense physical and mental transformations required for the role. “The film demanded a great deal of commitment, as both my character and that of Najib had to experience immense suffering. Portraying these hardships was a challenge, but one that was essential to the film’s authenticity,” he explained.

Thanupp: An Exploration of Infertility and Social Stigma

Thanupp, directed by Ragesh Narayanan, explores the pressing issue of infertility, an increasingly common concern among modern couples due to changing lifestyles and environmental factors. The film delves into the struggles of Pradheesh and Treesa, a young couple living in a picturesque village. Their quest for answers about their infertility is complicated by gossip, judgment, and the invasion of their privacy by the very community they live in.

Editor Safdar Merva explained that the film is a brave exploration of a social issue that often remains hidden. “Infertility is a deeply personal and sensitive issue that many couples face. In Thanupp, we shed light on this reality, illustrating how lifestyle changes and climate shifts can impact people’s lives. This is not just a story, but a call for empathy and understanding,” he said. Merva said that the film is based on a true story of one of their friends.

The film’s gripping narrative is enhanced by its realistic portrayal of the emotional turmoil experienced by the couple, as well as the societal pressures that further complicate their struggle.

About the Film

THE GOAT LIFE (AADUJEEVITHAM)

India | 2023 | Malayalam | 172 ‘ | COLOUR

Synopsis

Aadujeevitham, based on Benyamin's novel by the same name, follows Najib, who leaves his family in Kerala for a better life in the Middle East. Instead, he's forced into hard labor on a goat farm, losing hope and identity. This heart-wrenching story depicts his survival in harsh conditions, cut off from his family and language. Through a unique bond with goats and camels, Najib keeps his spirit alive. After three years, he escapes his dire situation with unexpected help, highlighting one man's plight that mirrors the struggles of many.

Cast and Crew

Director: Blessy

Producer: Visual Romance

Cinematographer: Sunil K. S.

Editor: A. Sreekar Prasad

Screenplay: Blessy

Cast: Prithviraj Sukumaran, K. R. Gokul, Amala Paul, Jimmy Jean-Louis, Shobha Mohan, Talib Al Balushi, Rik Aby

Watch the Press Conference here:

THANUPP

Colour | 109 Mins | Malayalam | 2023

Synopsis

In Thanupp, young couple Pradheesh and Treesa settle in a scenic village and quickly raise suspicions with their frequent inquiries about the river. Pradheesh’s secretive nocturnal activities and intimate moments with Treesa are captured by mischief-making villagers. The leaked video forces them to leave, leading their friend Prakasan to call in Santhosh for help. Santhosh uncovers a shocking truth about the couple, stunning everyone. The film addresses social issues with unwavering commitment, exploring the consequences of privacy invasion and societal judgments.

Cast and Crew

Director: Ragesh Narayanan

Producer: Kashi Cinemas

Cinematographer: Manikandan P S

Editor: Safdar Merva

Screenwriter: Ragesh Narayanan

Cast: Nidheesh, Jibiya

Watch the Press Conference here:

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PIB IFFI CAST AND CREW | Rajith/Nikita/Swadhin/Darshana | IFFI 55 - 117