Used my father's photo without consent, made false promises: Complaint lodged against 'Rifle Club'

Thiruvananthapuram: A complaint has been filed against the movie Rifle Club, directed by Aashiq Abu, by Raja Azeez, the son of the late actor KPAC Azeez. The complaint alleges that the filmmakers used the late actor’s image in the film without the family's consent. Raja has stated that he will pursue legal action in this regard.

According to Raja, someone claiming to be an associate of director Aashiq Abu had contacted him, saying they needed a photo of his late father for a scene in the film. The person informed him that the photo would be used only in a few scenes. Raja agreed and also requested a small role for himself in the film, which was accepted. He then sent the requested photographs.

Raja further explained that he had sent a few stills from the film Kaattu, in which he had acted alongside actors Asif Ali and Murali Gopy. However, the next day, he was asked for his side profiles. Raja complied again and sent new photographs.

Despite these discussions, Raja claims that the filmmakers proceeded to release the film without his formal consent and without offering him a role. He added that when he attempted to follow up with Aashiq Abu or the associate director, his calls were unanswered.

The controversy has raised questions regarding the use of an actor’s image after death and the importance of obtaining proper family consent, especially in the context of commercial film production. Raja Azees has confirmed that he intends to take legal action in response to the unauthorized use of his father’s image in the film Rifle Club.