Jeethu Joseph: Beyond ’Drishyam’ – A Director Focused on Storytelling
Jeethu Joseph has become a name synonymous wiht compelling cinema, particularly after the phenomenal success of Drishyam. However, the director insists his focus remains steadfastly on the core of filmmaking: a good story.He doesn’t define success by scale, but by the narrative’s power to connect with an audience.
Joseph recalls being labeled “pan-Indian” after Drishyam, a categorization he finds less important than the work itself. For him, it’s always about the story, regardless of its scope. He emphasizes that there are no “big” or “small” films, only stories that deserve to be told, and compelling ways to tell them.
A philosophy Rooted in Narrative
Joseph’s approach stands in contrast to filmmakers who consistently aim for larger productions. He doesn’t subscribe to that philosophy. In fact, he expresses a desire to explore different genres, even a children’s film.
He remembers facing questions about the “small” scale of Nunakuzhy, a project he embraced wholeheartedly.This experience solidified his belief that a film’s impact isn’t tied to its budget or grandeur.
The Art of Scripting
as a writer as well as a director, Joseph’s scripts often garner meaningful attention. He explains that stories rarely appear fully formed. Instead, they emerge from a multitude of sources – a striking visual, a memorable character, a real-life incident, or even inspiration gleaned from other films or current events.
Joseph skillfully weaves these elements together, aiming to create a cinematic experience that bridges the gap between art-house and commercial appeal. He believes cinema’s purpose is best served when it engages a broad audience. Thus, he prioritizes strong subjects, well-developed characters, and an immersive experience for the viewer, even during the scripting phase.
The ‘Drishyam’ Universe & Beyond
Currently, anticipation is building for the third installment of Drishyam. Naturally, speculation about a potential fourth film is rising. Joseph laughs, admitting he hadn’t even considered a sequel initially.
He explains that Drishyam 2 arose from audience suggestions and exploration of possibilities. Importantly, it wasn’t conceived with a third part in mind. The ending of the second film, though, organically opened the door for further storytelling.
Upcoming Projects
Joseph is currently balancing the Drishyam legacy with exciting new ventures. He’s directing Ram (Part I),an action thriller starring Mohanlal. Additionally,he’s working on Valathu Vashathe Kallan,featuring Biju Menon and Joju George.
These projects demonstrate Joseph’s versatility and commitment to exploring diverse narratives. Ultimately, his career is a testament to the power of storytelling and a director’s unwavering dedication to bringing those stories to life.