A huge underground prison stretching in 13,000 square feet was constructed in Athirappilly close to the waterfalls. It is the major location for Hollywood film ‘Escape from Black Water’ directed by Roger Ellis Frazier.

Payyannur native Akhil Raj Chirayil constructed the underground prison for the movie. He took 20 days to construct the prison with 10 rooms. Over Rs 38 lakh was spent for constructing the prison. A large number of people have been floating to the marvellous set which is situated opposite Dream World water amusement park on Athirappilly road.

Akhil, 29-year-old art director also designed the 22 feet chariot for the promo of Vikram’s upcoming movie Mahaveer Karnan directed by RS Vimal. 

placeholder
Akhil Raj Chirayil

Akhil completed bachelor’s degree in Sculpture from Thiruvananthapuram Fine Arts College. He started his career as an assistant to art director Sabu Sivan. Akhil made his debut with Prithviraj starrer 'Memories'. He also worked as an assistant art director in popular movies ‘Drishyam’ and ‘Ennu Ninte Moideen’.

‘Escape from Black Water’ is his second independent project. Four other Keralites are also associated with the project. Cinematographer Dilshad, Line Producer Thajuddin, production controller Manoj Karanthoor and many other technicians are also working under the project.

'Escape from Black Water' portrays the story of an American citizen who gets trapped in a prison in India. The movie has 15 days of shooting in Athirappilly. Kannur, Ernakulam, Bengaluru and the US are the other major locations.

placeholder