When Keiko Nakahara declared to her parents that she needed to learn english and wanted to become a linguist, with her family's unwavering support, she set foot in America, enrolling at San Diego State University in California to study cinema. But the Japanese native had an unspoken ambition—the dream of becoming a filmmaker. This marked the beginning of her extraordinary journey in filmmaking.  

When the time came to choose a specialisation—direction, screenwriting, or cinematography—Keiko's path became clear the moment she hoisted a film camera onto her shoulders. That defining decision led to a fulfilling career spanning 20 years, cementing her reputation as a talented cinematographer.  

From assisting in Hollywood films, Keiko made her independent debut as Director of Photography with 'Mary Kom,' starring Priyanka Chopra. The film's resounding success opened doors to major productions, including Ajay Devgn's 'Tanhaji.' Now, she embarks on a new cinematic adventure, marking her Malayalam debut with the supernatural thriller 'Vadakkan,' directed by Sajeed A.

The film, starring Kishore and Sruthy, is set for a worldwide release on March 7.  

From Tanegashima to global cinematography 

Keiko Nakahara was born on Tanegashima Island, Japan, a picturesque landmass spanning just 57 km in length and home to a population of 33,000. She grew up in a family of five—her father, an officer in Japan's Self-Defence Forces, her mother, and two siblings. Due to her father's military career, the family frequently relocated, fostering Keiko's deep love for travel, new cultures, and diverse experiences.  

Her fascination with cinema was sparked in childhood, but with no industry connections, she was uncertain how to break into filmmaking. Determined to reach America, she told her family she wanted to learn English and become translator—a story she maintained until the release of her first independent film, 'Mary Kom.' 

Priyanka Chopra and 'Mary Kom'  

After graduating from San Diego State University, Keiko spent eight years in Hollywood before landing the cinematography role for 'Mary Kom.' Arriving in Mumbai was a culture shock—she survived on bananas and cookies, hesitant to try India's spicy cuisine.  

Her appointment as Director of Photography came just three days before the shoot, leaving her with sleepless nights as she meticulously studied the script and planned scenes. During filming, she formed a close friendship with Priyanka Chopra, a bond that remains strong to this day.  

A cinematographer inspired by legends

Keiko credits Roger Deakins as a major influence in her craft. She also draws inspiration from a pioneering Japanese female cinematographer, now in her seventies, who continues to work on big-budget films in Japan.  

Now aged 47, Keiko has spent two decades working primarily in Hollywood and Bollywood. Currently, she is preparing to embark on her first Japanese film, marking a long-awaited homecoming.  

Despite her illustrious career, Keiko prioritises family and close friendships over social media. She avoids Instagram and prefers to live life peacefully, immersed in her passion for filmmaking. She spends her time with her son and her handful of friends.

Vadakkan

Keiko first visited Kerala for the shoot of 'Vadakkan', and she was instantly captivated by the breathtaking beauty of Vagamon, calling it the best filming location she has encountered in her 20-year career. She also considers Sajeed A the best director she has ever worked with.  

For the first time in her career, she joined the film crew for meals, thoroughly enjoying Kerala's cuisine. She describes the infrared cinematography and lighting techniques used in 'Vadakkan' as a unique and challenging experience.  

Keiko praises Kishore and Sruthy's performances, recalling an intense sequence where Kishore danced barefoot on a cliff, illuminated only by a palm torch. She wore a mask while operating the camera, but Kishore endured the heat and smoke of the fire with unwavering dedication. Sruthy's performance, she says, was equally extraordinary.  

A cinematic spectacle rooted in Dravidian lore

"Vadakkan" is an ambitious blend of Dravidian mythology, advanced digital technology, and cutting-edge visual effects. The film's sound design is helmed by Oscar winner Resul Pookkutty, with Unni R handling the screenplay and dialogues.  

The film's music is composed by Bijibal, featuring a love song performed by internationally renowned Pakistani singer Zeb Bangash, with lyrics penned by acclaimed Bollywood lyricist Shellee. The VFX is crafted by top technicians from India and abroad.  

The film stars Sruthy, Kishore, Merin Philip, Maala Parvathy, Ravi Venkataraman, Gargi Ananthan, Greeshma Alex, Kalesh Ramanand, Krishna Shankar, Aryan Kasturiya, Meenakshi Unnikrishnan, Siraj Nasar, Revathy, and many more.