Parankimala, a intense tale of love, released way back in 1981 was noted for its connect to the two luminaries of Malayalam literature and cinema, Kakkanadan and Bharathan. The rustic story penned by Kakkanadan in 1971 was brilliantly framed by the veteran director. Now, the remake of the film that once set the screen on fire, is set to hit the marquee. In the new version, directed by debutant Sennan Pallaserry, Biyon and Vinuda Lal will reprise the lead characters, Appu and Thanka.
Remakes have been in vogue in Malayalam for some time now, but Sennan says his movie is a different take. “Unlike the usual adaptations that stick to the same storyline, the new movie has many changes. While the original version was also noticed for its sensuous content, the new movie is a clean family entertainer,” says Sennan. The debutant, hailing from a family with filmy roots is an ardent admirer of the films of Bharathan. He says, “He was one filmmaker who walked ahead of times. His aesthetic sense was unique, and I consider it my fortune to begin my career by remaking his film.” However he adds that this movie is more of his perspective on the lives of Appu and Thanka.” He says, “The fierceness of love was the factor that enticed me to take up the project. Unlike the romances that we see nowadays, the heroine of Parankimala shows seamless passion and makes sacrifices. This movie will be more heroine-centric, with a bolder Thanka.” The director says newbie Vinutha has made painstaking efforts to essay the role done to perfection by Soorya. The uniqueness of Appu’s role played by Biyon is that it will have no negative shades, unlike the original story.
The character played by Nedumudi Venu was one of the highlights of the Bharathan classic. In the new version, Thirumurukan, of Neyyandi fame, will reprise the role. The director says, “Though Venu essayed the character in an unparalleled way, Thirumurukan has acted in an effortless way, and is expected to be the show-stealer of the film.”
Quiz the director about the level of excitement on doing a film that has already won the hearts of cinegoers, he says, “The adaptations have certain advantages like they have a minimum guarantee, unlike the new films.” The director candidly admits that the sensuous content of the films too is a winning factor.
Bharathan being a master of colours, his movies were known for their scenic beauty. Parankimala was no different, and the director says his film, shot at Neriamangalam and Thattekkad, also realistically portrays the beauty of nature. R Maniprasad has cranked the camera. Kalabhavan Mani, Jagadeesh, Indrans, Vishnu Unnikrishnan, Thara Kalyan Kala Ranjini and Meghna Vincent are the other actors of the film. The music is handled by Afsal Yosuf. The movie is produced by Vijins and Thomas under the banner of ‘V S International and Kokkat Film Company.