Directing is a 24-hour creative job: Sripriya

She has acted in more than 200 films, but still her love for cinema remains the same as evident in her new avatar as writer and director. Sripriya was the only actor from the 1980s who starred in a range of roles, paired opposite some of the big names in K’town. Now, Sripriya is all set to enthrall movie buffs, directing her next flick, 'Malini 22 Palayamkottai', which is the remake of the super hit Malayalam flick, 22 Female Kottayam. Sripriya has also grabbed the remake rights of the recently released Malayalam film, 'Drishyam', starring Mohanlal and Meena, which turned out to be a box office hit.

Though Sripriya has hands-on experience in direction, she personally considers Malini 22 Palayamkottai to be her first film as the script is completely close to her heart. “I have done a few films earlier, but I don’t want to consider those at all. I believe and consider this to be my debut film and it will definitely satisfy audiences too.

“Also, for the past few years, I have spent time in analysis, studying and reading about filmmaking, and now, I am able to think and work from a different perspective. Not only 'Malini 22',  but any film that I direct from now on will have a good social message, as I wish to be responsible in every way,” says Sripriya.

“It all happened because of my friend. She insisted that I watch '22 Female Kottayam', the Malayalam version of the film. I then took time to watch it, and I was completely impressed with the storyline. Then I decided to remake it in Tamil, with some changes made to the script. Also, as a parent,
“I am shattered completely to see violence against women — from acid attacks to sexual assault — and its omnipresence in today’s world. I believe this film would create an impact in society. Nithya Menon plays the lead role, the story completely revolves around her. Krish J. Sathaar and Naresh play prominent roles. As the film is produced my husband, I am not pressurised to be answerable. I also want to be socially responsible, I am not in cinema to make money.”

Choice of female lead

I saw Nithya Menon’s 'Usthad Hotel and realised that no one would fit the role as well as she could. Also, I just love her eyes. If an actor’s eyes are convincingly big and expressive, then the rest becomes simple for them. Everyone can relate to her easily as she has that innocent look. Also, she resembles yesteryear actor Srividya, which is also a plus factor.