Renowned filmmaker Sriram Raghavan, known for his gripping narratives and dark humor, revealed in a recent interview that his upcoming film “Agastaya’s Ikkis” is a significant departure from his usual cinematic style. Here are the key points from his discussion:
New Genre Exploration:
Raghavan, celebrated for his noir thrillers like “Andhadhun” and “Badlapur,” stated that “Agastaya’s Ikkis” ventures into uncharted territory for him. The film delves into the realm of fantasy and mythology, a genre he hasn’t previously explored in his career.
Inspiration from Indian Mythology:
Unlike his previous works, which often drew inspiration from real-life events or crime stories, “Agastaya’s Ikkis” draws heavily from Indian mythology. Raghavan expressed his fascination with the richness of Indian folklore and saw an opportunity to bring it to the big screen in a fresh and innovative manner.
Character-Driven Narrative:
While his earlier films were known for their intricate plots and unexpected twists, Raghavan emphasized that “Agastaya’s Ikkis” places a stronger emphasis on character development. The story revolves around the titular character, Agastaya, and his journey through the mythical landscape, exploring themes of heroism, redemption, and destiny.
Visual Spectacle:
Raghavan acknowledged that “Agastaya’s Ikkis” presented unique challenges in terms of visual effects and production design. The film promises to deliver a visual spectacle, with stunning CGI and intricate set designs bringing the fantastic world to life.
Collaboration with New Talent:
While Raghavan has previously worked with established stars like Ayushmann Khurrana and Varun Dhawan, “Agastaya’s Ikkis” features a cast predominantly composed of emerging talents. Raghavan expressed his excitement at the opportunity to collaborate with fresh faces and nurture new talent in the industry.
Experimental Storytelling:
Departing from the linear narrative structure of his previous films, Raghavan teased that “Agastaya’s Ikkis” would employ a more experimental storytelling approach. The film is expected to feature nonlinear storytelling elements, keeping the audience engaged and intrigued throughout.
Musical Exploration:
Raghavan, known for his eclectic musical choices, hinted at a departure from the conventional soundtrack in “Agastaya’s Ikkis.” The film is set to feature a diverse range of musical styles, blending traditional Indian melodies with contemporary sounds to complement the fantastical narrative.
Audience Reception:
While Raghavan acknowledged that “Agastaya’s Ikkis” might not appeal to his traditional fanbase initially, he expressed confidence that audiences would appreciate the film’s bold experimentation and thematic depth. He hoped that the film would open doors for more diverse storytelling in Indian cinema.
The collaboration between Sriram Raghavan and Agastaya Nanda has generated considerable buzz within the film fraternity, with many eagerly anticipating the release of “Ikkis.” Industry insiders speculate that the film’s departure from Raghavan’s signature style may serve as a catalyst for broader experimentation within Indian cinema, encouraging established filmmakers to embrace innovation and diversity in storytelling.
As “Ikkis” gears up for its theatrical release, the spotlight remains firmly trained on Agastaya Nanda, whose directorial debut promises to captivate audiences with its fresh perspective and narrative depth. With Sriram Raghavan’s endorsement adding to the anticipation, “Ikkis” stands poised to make a significant impact on the cinematic landscape, heralding a new era of creativity and exploration in Indian filmmaking.
By – TAZEEN AKHTER