A fatal accident on the set of ‘Killer’, the upcoming multilingual film directed by and starring S J Suryah and produced by Malayalam production house Sree Gokulam Movies, claimed the life of one crew member and injured three others on Wednesday.

The incident occurred during the filming of an action sequence at Chennai's Binny Mills complex, where a cylinder reportedly exploded unexpectedly, triggering a blast that left four members of the production unit seriously injured. The tragedy has sent shockwaves through the film's cast and crew and brought shooting to an immediate halt.

All four injured individuals were rushed to the Rajiv Gandhi Government Hospital for emergency treatment. However, one of them later succumbed to injuries, according to sources close to the production.

Police have registered a case and launched an investigation into the circumstances that led to the explosion.

Shoot suspended after tragic mishap

The accident has cast a shadow over one of Tamil cinema's most anticipated projects. Crew members were reportedly filming a high-intensity action sequence when the blast occurred.

While officials are yet to determine the exact cause of the incident, investigators are expected to examine safety protocols and equipment used during the shoot.

The death has left the unit grieving, with production activities suspended until further notice.

S J Suryah's return to direction

‘Killer’ has generated considerable interest as it marks S J Suryah's return to directing after several years. Apart from helming the project, the filmmaker is also playing the lead role.

The first look of the film was unveiled in July last year. Sharing the poster on social media, Suryah wrote, "En anbum aaruirumaana fans & friends... Presenting you the #KillerFirstLook as my birthday gift to all of you. Tomorrow morning, all of you keep me in your prayers and I will keep you all in my prayers as always. SJS"

The promotional material released so far has hinted at an action-packed entertainer. One poster showed Suryah carrying the female lead on his shoulder while holding a handgun, while another featured him with a shotgun and a cross around his neck.

Backed by Sree Gokulam Movies

The film is being bankrolled by Sree Gokulam Movies, one of the Malayalam film industry's most prominent production houses, which has backed several successful projects across South Indian cinema.

Adding further star power to the venture, Oscar-winning composer A R Rahman has been signed to compose the music. Actress Preethi Asrani, who received praise for her performance in the acclaimed Tamil film Ayothya, also plays a key role in the project.

About ‘Killer’

Industry sources say Suryah conceived the story of ‘Killer’ during the COVID-19 lockdown. The film is said to revolve around the life of a hitman and will combine action, romance and comedy elements.

While most of the film is being shot in India, portions are also planned to be filmed in Mexico.

Designed as a pan-India release, ‘Killer’ is being made in five languages with the aim of reaching audiences across the country.

(IANS)