Director Raju Murugan, whose first film Cuckoo (2014) came in for praise from various segments of society, has now titled his next film Joker. Shot by cinematographer Chezhiyan, the film, produced by Dream Warrior Pictures, has music by Sean Rolden and lyrics by Yugabharathi.
Confirming the news to City Express, the director said, “My next film has been titled Joker. It features Somasundaram, who played impressive roles in Aaranya Kaandam (2010) and Jigarthanda (2014) (he played the acting coach to Bobby Simha), as the lead. Somasundaram, a theatre person, is one of the finest artistes of the country. Mu Ramasamy, who did a wonderful job in films like Pithamagan (2003), also plays an important role in this film. There are a number of other artistes including two female actors — Gayathri and Ramya — who will make their debut.”
Ask the director if reports on the film being a political satire are true and he says, “Actually, this is a social satire film. But as far as I’m concerned, anything to do with the public is politics. So, you could say this is a socio-political satire film. Joker is basically a humorous film. In today’s society, people have developed a sense of humour even about issues that affect them. They look at issues with a sense of humour. As a result, we have started looking at even those who struggle as jokers. The hero of my film will make you laugh. However, he will eventually pose a socially relevant question and we end the film with that.”
This political satire film is likely to be released soon. With elections round the corner, is he actually trying to make a point? Says the director, “No way. There is no connection between elections and my film. I was a journalist before becoming a director. As a writer and journalist, I have been travelling with people and my love for them is what led me to make this film.”