It’s not easy to approach an actor like Mammukka...: Jithin K Jose on directing ‘Kalamkaval’

Jithin K Jose, who co-wrote the screenplay for the hit film ‘Kurup’, is making his debut as a director with the upcoming crime thriller ‘Kalamkaval’. The film stars Mammootty and Vinayakan in pivotal roles and is produced under Mammootty Kampany. The movie is currently in the final stages of post-production, with a release expected soon. 

Approaching Mammootty was a challenge

Reflecting on his journey, Jithin admitted that approaching a veteran actor like Mammootty was no easy task for a first-time director.

"It’s not easy for a debut director to approach a great actor like Mammukka. During the making of ‘Mamangam’, I worked as an associate director alongside Sajeev Pillai. Through those connections, I managed to reach Mammukka. When I narrated the story and discussed the character, he showed great interest," Jithin said.

He praised Mammootty’s dedication to the craft and his ability to absorb the nuances of the character, adding that the actor approached the role with great enthusiasm.

"Kalamkaval gave him ample scope to explore the layers of emotion, and he approached it with full enthusiasm. Watching him transform into the character on set was a privilege," Jithin remarked.

Casting Vinayakan: Mammootty’s suggestion

The film also features Vinayakan in a significant role, a casting choice credited to Mammootty himself.

"In Kalamkaval, there’s another central character just as important as Mammukka’s. We discussed several options, and it was Mammukka who suggested Vinayakan. He has been part of major films in multiple languages, and we felt he could take the character to another level," Jithin explained.

He added that Vinayakan prepared extensively for the role, which is unlike any other character he has portrayed before.

From screenwriting to directing

Jithin began his career as a screenwriter, a background that helped shape his approach to directing.

"My interest in writing led me to write the screenplay, but my ultimate goal was to direct. The director carries the full responsibility of the film and must produce it according to his vision. Writing was the first step toward that goal," he said.

He noted that his screenwriting experience allowed him to critically evaluate the screenplay and engage deeply with the filmmaking process.

Plot inspiration and film’s title

While Jithin’s earlier work ‘Kurup’ was a biographical period drama, ‘Kalamkaval’ is more fictional but inspired by multiple real-life incidents. The story draws from various sources, including social media and direct contacts involved in similar events.

The title ‘Kalamkaval’ refers to a traditional ritual performed in certain Devi temples in south Travancore. Jithin acknowledged that the term may not be immediately familiar to all, but it is closely tied, directly or metaphorically, to the film’s themes.

Technical aspects and distribution

The film’s cinematography is by Faisal Ali, with editing by Praveen Prabhakar and music composed by Mujeeb Majeed. ‘Kalamkaval’ will be distributed in Kerala by Dulquer Salmaan’s Wayfarer Films.

Jithin also emphasised the importance of visuals, sound design, and background music in conveying the story’s culturally and geographically distinct layers.