Certain experiences can just be like the taste of gooseberry - first sour and then sweet. This precisely is the philosophy of Bijith Bala’s Nellikka, a film that stars Atul Kulkarni and Deepak in the lead roles. “The film is basically a family thriller, but the story unwinds against the backdrop of the music culture in Malabar. Nellikka also touches upon the political scenario in Kerala,” says the director.
Set in Kozhikode, the film revolves around the family of Hari Master, who was very active in the music circuits of Malabar. “He was an associate of Baburaj and now runs Baburaj Kalakendra for music lovers. He is a man who enjoys his retired life to the fullest,” says Bijith. The film also captures the clash of generations as Hari’s son Balu belongs to the world of new-age music. “Balu is someone in love with Western music and doesn’t share his father’s taste in yesteryear music,” he says. Bijith adds that the film can be called a musical as it features five beautiful songs composed by Bjijibal. Sasikumar plays the much-loved Hari Master while Deepak steps into the shoes of Balu.
Renowned Bollywood actor Atul Kulkarni plays another lead character in the film and Bijith says he was cast to bring in certain freshness in the narrative. He plays Satheesh, the zonal head of a bank, who is married to Hari Master’s daughter. “It’s first time that Atul Kulkarni is playing a full-length character in Malayalam,” says the director. Sija Rose plays the female lead while Parveen, a Mumabi-based model, is paired opposite Atul. Mamukoya, Koottikkal Jayachandran, RJ Shaan, Vishnu and Nikhil are also part of the cast.
Bijith says Nellikka will be a film suitable for all types of audience. “It’s a soft story, a musical that can be enjoyed by everyone. You will find it easy to relate to its story and characters,” he says. Though the film belongs to the genre of thrillers Bijith says it will not fit into the format of typical thrillers. “It’s not an investigative thriller, but a family thriller. There will not be any high-octane action sequences, gravity-defying stunts or spectacular showdowns. But certain suspense is maintained throughout the film and it has something in it that will keep the viewer hooked,” he says.
The film, produced by Abdul Rahoof, under the banner of A R Productions, is expected to hit the screens by November.