‘Ben’, actor-turned-director Vipin Atlee’s directorial debut, is a kid’s movie but for grown-ups, claims its makers. The story revolves around 10-year-old Ben and his simple life but holds a mirror to society about how it functions and addresses religious dogma.
The tale is set on the banks of backwaters at Mulavukadu near Kochi. Ben is the only child of a semi-literate mechanic and an ambitious mother. His mother, who rues the ‘low social status’, lives in an eternal displeasure about the state of her family and is vocal about it. But, Ben, who is blissfully unaware of all that is going on in his family, continues to enjoy the magic of his childhood. But, his life takes a turn when he finds himself being moved to the city life. But, can little Ben take it?
Atlee who made his film debut as an actor and scenarist with critically-acclaimed ‘Homely Meals’ says the script is close to his heart. “It is autobiographical,” he adds. Master Gaurav Menon appears as Ben while
Suraj Venjaramoodu essays the role of Ben’s father. The film also has Jibu Jacob, director of the Vellimoonga, donning the greasepaint as the older brother of the character essayed by Suraj Venjaramoodu. “Jibu suited the role, he was game for it. Anjali Upasana essays the role of Ben’s mother. The film is produced by Dr Sajan K George.