Absurdist Tale of Obsession: Sanju Surendran’s ‘Fishers of Men’ Seeks Funding at Hong Kong-Asia Film Financing Forum
The human capacity for obsession, and the often-destructive paths it carves, are at the heart of Indian filmmaker Sanju Surendran’s upcoming project, “Fishers of Men” (originally titled “Kothiyan”). The Malayalam-language drama-fantasy, currently seeking co-production partners and funding at the Hong Kong-Asia Film Financing Forum (HAF), explores the unraveling of Sreekumar, a bank officer whose life is irrevocably altered after a single, fateful encounter with fish, and alcohol. The film promises a blend of social realism and surrealism, delving into themes of desire, identity, and the elusive nature of purity. Surendran, a National Award-winning filmmaker, aims to build on the success of his previous work, “If on a Winter’s Night,” which garnered the Hylife Vision Award at the Busan International Film Festival in 2025.
Produced by Pramod Sankar, Rajeev Ravi, and Kiran Kesav through Cloud Door Films, “Fishers of Men” presents a narrative where Sreekumar’s initial curiosity spirals into a consuming obsession. The story follows his descent from a contented, orthodox life into a “wild, animalistic existence,” ultimately leading him to abandon societal norms and embrace a solitary life by the coast, fixated on his newfound craving. This dramatic transformation, according to Surendran, isn’t merely a tale of madness, but a journey into the depths of human desire and a potential transcendence of the self. The project is one of seventeen in-development projects selected for the 24th Hong Kong-Asia Film Financing Forum, which ran from March 17-19 at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre.
Exploring the Roots of Obsession and Societal Purity
Surendran’s interest in the subject matter stems from a desire to explore the extremes of human behavior. Following “If on a Winter’s Night,” which focused on themes of migration and displacement, he felt compelled to investigate the driving forces behind obsession. “Some people are wired to travel to the far ends of anything and everything,” Surendran explained, “they chase one thing with such single-minded fury that the world calls them fools, madmen, outcasts. But in that relentless pursuit, they often embark on their own private spiritual journeys.” This exploration isn’t simply about individual psychology; it’s likewise a commentary on societal structures and the often-hidden hierarchies embedded within concepts of purity.
The film’s thematic core, as described by Surendran, interrogates the very notion of absolute purity. He argues that the pursuit of purity – whether in diet, lifestyle, or belief – frequently serves to reinforce existing power dynamics. “Fish in the film operate on multiple registers,” he elaborated. “They are mundane and everyday; they are sacred and ritualistic; they are erotic and unsettling. It becomes a portal to the forbidden.” This multifaceted symbolism allows the film to explore how desire can destabilize identity, presenting Sreekumar’s descent as both a potential descent into madness and a path toward a different kind of understanding. The Film and Television Institute of India, where Surendran studied under the influential filmmaker Mani Kaul, clearly shaped his aesthetic and philosophical approach to storytelling.
Cloud Door Films and the Vision Behind the Project
Cloud Door Films, the production company behind “Fishers of Men,” has a strong track record of supporting innovative and thought-provoking cinema. Founded by Pramod Sankar T, the company aims to produce high-quality films, web series, and documentaries that showcase exceptional storytelling and stunning visuals. Cloud Door Films emphasizes pushing boundaries and challenging conventions within the entertainment industry. Sankar, who transitioned to film production from a background in economics and export business in 2008, brings a unique blend of analytical and organizational skills to the creative process.
Producers Pramod Sankar and Kiran Kesav were drawn to the project by Surendran’s “bold vision” and the script’s poetic and provocative nature, penned by S. Hareesh. They highlighted the film’s ability to remain deeply rooted in the socio-cultural context of Kerala while simultaneously addressing universal themes. “The script by S. Hareesh is both poetic and provocative, engaging with emotions, desire and cultural multiplicity without offering easy answers,” they stated. The producers are actively seeking co-production partners, international sales agents, and completion funding at HAF to solidify the film’s financing structure and build momentum for festival submissions and distribution.
A Legacy of Award-Winning Filmmaking
Sanju Surendran’s career has been marked by critical acclaim and recognition for his unique cinematic voice. His documentary, “Kapila,” which explores the traditional Indian performing art of Kutiyattam, won the National Film Award for Best Documentary in 2014. IMDb details his filmography, showcasing a consistent exploration of complex themes and a commitment to artistic innovation. His film “Aedan: Garden of Desire” earned the FIPRESCI Prize at the International Film Festival of Kerala in 2018, further solidifying his reputation as a rising talent in Indian cinema.
Rajeev Ravi, a co-producer on “Fishers of Men,” is also an accomplished filmmaker, having won the National Film Award for his directorial debut, “Liar’s Dice,” in 2013. His expertise as a cinematographer further enhances the visual potential of the project. The collaboration between Surendran and Ravi represents a powerful synergy of creative vision and technical skill, promising a visually compelling and emotionally resonant cinematic experience. Surendran’s background, having studied under the legendary Mani Kaul at the Film and Television Institute of India, is a key influence on his worldview and filmmaking style, as noted on his LinkedIn profile.
The team’s presence at HAF underscores their commitment to bringing “Fishers of Men” to a global audience. Their objectives extend beyond securing funding; they aim to establish strategic partnerships that will facilitate the film’s distribution and ensure its reach extends to major film festivals and platforms worldwide. The producers are confident that the film’s unique blend of social commentary, surreal imagery, and compelling storytelling will resonate with audiences internationally.
As “Fishers of Men” seeks the necessary funding to move forward, the film’s progress will be closely watched by industry professionals and film enthusiasts alike. The next step for the project involves finalizing co-production agreements and securing international sales representation, paving the way for a potential release in late 2026 or early 2027. We encourage readers to share their thoughts on this intriguing project and the themes it explores in the comments below.