Thiruvananthapuram: Ajayan Chalissery, the mastermind behind the mesmerising sets of the film ‘Manjummel Boys’, credits his dedicated team of artists and technicians for bringing his vision to life. Each set in ‘Manjummel Boys’ is a testament to their unwavering commitment and hard work, as they meticulously crafted every detail to perfection.
In an interview, art director Ajayan Chalissery shares how he and his boys created a set like Guna Cave. In the interview, he said that the primary set depicting Subhash’s fall into the pit presented us with a two-month challenge. To recreate that incident, we constructed three sets, each towering at about 50 feet in height. Each pit was meticulously designed to embody its unique character: one adorned with algae where Subhash falls, another portraying Kuttan’s struggle to rescue Subhash, and a third showcasing Kuttan gets down. These sets were expansive enough to facilitate smooth movement for the actors.
Filming inside the actual cave was prohibited due to safety concerns stemming from past accidents. However, with permission, we ventured inside briefly to capture images. It posed a challenge to accurately measure and replicate the cave’s structure, texture, and ageing. Ajayan Chalissery said that they have collected moulds from approximately 30 types of rocks near the Guna caves to ensure accurate texture. Hyperrealism guided our efforts, demanding meticulous attention to detail to maintain realism even upon zooming in.
To show the exact climate, we installed a centralised air conditioning system on set and simulated rain and mist using large ice blocks, typically used for transporting fish. Our meticulous attention to detail extended to every aspect, including crafting trees and camera supports. Despite facing time constraints common in film production, we prioritised perfection, dedicating two months to ensuring the set’s flawless execution.
Since its release on February 22nd, ‘Manjummel Boys’ has been setting new records with its stellar box office performance. Notably, it has emerged as the highest-grossing Malayalam film in Tamil Nadu and America, further solidifying its status as a cinematic sensation.
The film industry is abuzz with excitement as the survival story ‘Manjummel Boys’ achieves a remarkable milestone, crossing the coveted Rs 200 crore mark at the global box office. Directed by Chidambaram and starring Soubin, Sreenath Bhasi, and a talented ensemble cast, this cinematic masterpiece takes viewers on a thrilling journey into the mysterious Guna Caves, where one man’s struggle for survival captivates audiences worldwide.
As audiences continue to flock to theatres to experience the magic of ‘Manjummel Boys’, the film’s unprecedented success serves as a testament to the power of storytelling and the collective effort of a dedicated team. With its captivating narrative and breathtaking visuals, ‘Manjummel Boys’ has truly left an indelible mark on the world of cinema.
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