In Conversation With The Youngest Cinematographer of Mollywood Who Debuts With Basheerinte Premalekhanam
- 09 Feb 2017
- TESSY TITUS
- Features
Meet Sanjay Harris, the youngest cinematographer in the history of Malayalam film industry, who has managed to amaze everyone with his talent and dedication. This rising star of the film industry really is an epitome of hard work, determination, faith and energy.He’s had a craze for photography and films from his childhood. It all began with the love for photography during school days. So, he decided to do a course through which he could make a great future and make his parents feel proud about it. Then, he studied a cinematography course at Balaji Film Institute, Mumbai.He had full support from the family throughout the journey.
How was the journey from assistant director to cinematographer?
The journey went well as I could learn many things and got agood experience while working. Eventually after that, I got a chance to assist director Abhinandam Ramanujan for the movie Mosayile Kuthira Meenukal and worked with him for around two and a half years. Thereafter, I worked as an assistant director for the movie Rani Padmini with Madhu Neelakandan. Following that, I worked as an assistant cameraman in movies like Double Barrel and Inspector Dawood Ibrahim. The strong passion, love and the effort I put in earned appreciation.
Talking about being the youngest cinematographer, how do you feel?
It was a tough competition in the field as there are so many budding talents coming up nowadays. Eventually, the golden opportunity in my life was when I got my first break as a cinematographer in the upcoming movie Basheerinte Premalekhanam,which is a romantic movie directed by Aneesh Anwar, who is a notable director, and has worked for movies like Zachacharayiyude Garbhinikal and Kumbasaram.Fahadh Fazil’s brother Farhan Fazil is the male lead in the movie. Sana Althaf is playing the female lead in the movie.Veteran star actors Madhu and Sheela are playing pivotal roles in the movie. Joy Mathew, Harish Kanaran, Aju Varghese, Shanavas, Suraj Harris, Sreejith Ravi, Sohan Seenulal, Sunil Sugatha, Manikandan, AshaAravind, Sivaji Guruvayoor, Ponnamma Babu, Ranjini Jose and Sethulakshmi are playing supporting roles in the movie.
I would like to give an advice to the audience. Don’t judge the movie by the title, it’s entirely a comic movie with a pinch of romance and everyone would love it. To work with Madhu sir and Sheela ma’am for my debut movie was the happiest moment in my life. Both of them are acting together after 35 years and it’s my pleasure to work with them. After the song of the movie was released, many people appreciated the work and congratulated me.
So what are the upcoming projects you have committed to?
The next one I would be working on is an untitled film by Shibu Gangadharan, who produced the movie Seventh day.The shooting of the movie will start in March and the location is Lakshadweep.For now, I am working only on this project.
Anything you want to convey to your fans?
The support and wishes of my friends, family and fanshave been my greatest strength. I would like to extend great thanks for supporting me always.So, get ready to watch the comedy flick, entertain yourselves and have a good time.
Photos from: Suraj Haris
