Success of thrillers in Malayalam is challenging, says ‘Kerala Crime Files’ director

As ‘Kerala Crime Files: Shiju, Parayil Veedu, Neendakara', a Malayalam web series, continues to garner wide attention among viewers, Ahmad Kabir Shadan, director of the series, opened up about the challenges in the process and opined it’s hard for thrillers to succeed in Malayalam industry.

In an exclusive interview with ‘Mathrubhumi’, Kabir said, “In terms of web series, people are more interested in watching those of crime genre. Crime thrillers are more in demand on OTT platforms too. My last two ventures (Madhuram, June) were feel-good movies and I wanted a change of route.” 

“Since the story I chose for the series was a short one, I was very anxious as it would soon be compared with big thrillers. It is only a case investigated by normal cops. I know that people will not expect a ‘Bahubali’ or anything of the sort,” he added. 

When asked about picking the right actors for roles, Kabir referred to casting Joju George in ‘Madhuram’ and said, “None of us had seen Joju chettan in a romantic role before. If I am able to bring out an actor’s another face, then as a director, it is good as well as challenging." 

Helmed by Ahmad Kabir, the series is produced by Rahul Riji Nair under the banner of First Print Studios. The script is penned by Ashiq Aimar, and the cinematography is handled by Jithin Stanislaus. ‘Kerala Crime Files’, starring Aju Varghese and Lal in lead roles, is now streaming on Disney+ Hotstar.