Scripting an Indo-American tale

Though settled in the US, Shibin Francis is from Kottayam and knows what the DNA of an achayan is all about. And this is what has helped him realise his long cherished dream of getting a foothold in the Mollywood industry. He has written the story and screenplay for the upcoming Dulquer Salmaan movie directed by Amal Neerad. “It is a romantic comedy,” says Shibin, who is now doing the post-production works of the yet-to-be-titled movie. “This movie is different from Amal Neerad’s previous ones. And, a film he must try. In the movie, Dulquer plays the role of a young achayan you would come across in Kottayam these days.

He bears no resemblance to the yesteryear Kottayam Kunjachan,” says Shibin adding politely, “I cannot divulge more about Dulquer’s character."

Cinematographer C.K. Muraleedharan’s daughter Karthika Murali is playing the female lead in the movie. The shooting was held mostly in Pala. “A few portions will be shot in the US.”

Shibin had a great time working with the crew. “I was happy. It was a learning experience to work with such a crew. Their energy and confidence helped me to do my part well,” Shibin recalls. “Dulquer is a down to earth person and makes his co-workers comfortable on the sets.”

Shibin discussed this project with Amal Neerad in September last year.

“I gave the one-liner in November. He liked the story and the project was on. Writing the script was challenging and at the same time exciting. I am new to the industry and had butterflies in the stomach while working with such a big team. I never imagined I would write script for the director of Big B.”

Although Shibin got his first credit for the Prithviraj starrer Paavada, he was not directly involved with the making of the movie. He only lent his story to them. “I had plans to direct Paavada with Bipin Chandran writing the screenplay,” reveals Shibin.  

“Somehow the project didn’t work out and we put it aside. We both went ahead with our independent projects. Later, we decided to give the idea to someone. That time, Maniyanpilla chettan was looking for a script for Prithviraj. He liked the story and took it. I am happy that the movie performed well at the box office. We (Shibin and Bipin) were confident about the story of Paavada and knew it would become a movie someday through someone.”

Will he direct a movie? “Maybe. If I am lucky,” says Shibin.