Two decades ago, a 68-year-old Arab comes down to Kerala and finds a wife in 13-year old Asma, daughter of a hapless mechanic Alavikutty. He takes back his new bride to Iran. Cut to present: Their daughter Naval grows up rooted to her Iranian lineage and what happens in her life forms the crux of Naval Enna Jewel, a movie by Renjith Lal, that stars Iranian actor Reem Kadem, Shwetha Menon and Hindi actor Adil Hussain.
The story happens in Iran. “It traces the life of Asma and her daughter played by Iraqi actor Reem Kadem. The movie is shot in Iran and Oman. We aim to make a movie that appeals the international audience as well. So no compromises were made in the casting and location part,” says Renjith Lal.
He adds that Reem Kadem was selected after much auditioning. “Reem is a very good actor and a screenwriter. We selected her because Naval should have a typical Iranian and Indian look and she fitted the bill. Reem has played the character of Naval extremely well,” says Ranjith.
The movie also has Shwetha Menon playing the prominent character of Asma. “One unique feature of the movie is that Shwetha will be seen in a male avatar,” says the director who refuses to reveal more details.According to him, Shwetha instantly gave the nod. “She read the script and was so enthusiastic. Ever since she has been preparing for the role and has shed a lot of weight for the role. The effort she took to play the character of Asma is laudable,” he adds.
As for Adil Hussain, the director says he was on a hunt for a person who could play the role of a government official in Iran. “I zeroed in on Adil Hussain but he was hesitant at the start. But, once he read the script, he was onboard and it was great working for a man who is very professional,” says Ranjith.
The last leg shoot of the movie is progressing at Ottapalam.
