In conversation with Pa. Ranjith, director of Kaala

Director Pa. Ranjith made his directorial debut in the year 2012 with the film Attakathi. The film went on to win the attention of the audiences and critics alike. His second film Madras (2014) made everyone take notice of the director. However, his directorial innings is soaring heights after working with Superstar Rajinikanth in Kabali (2016). This collaboration led him to work with the actor once again in the film Kaala, which is slated to release on 7th June 2018. In an exclusive chat with DGZ Media, the director speaks about working with Rajinikanth, the box-office pressure and more.

1. Given that your film Kaala is set to release on Thursday, what is your current state of mind right now?

I am waiting to see how people will receive it. That is my current state of mind.

2. How does it feel being the only new-gen director to be working with Rajinikanth twice?

It’s nice that Rajini Sir is giving new directors space to work with him. It is a brilliant gesture. I don’t know about the “only” part, but I am happy nevertheless.

3. How much of importance do you give to the ‘box-office’ pressure while you are making a film? (The pressure of making a film work at the box-office)

I don’t write a film because I want it to win in the box-office. But I understand the pressure of the box-office. By far I have been able to make films that have done well in terms of content and box-office. I hope to continue doing the same.

4. Your films revolve around a political theme, they speak about how the society treats people. Is it challenging to incorporate this theme into a commercial film which is supposed to appeal to the general audiences

This I think is a common misconception. The “general audience” is the people who face these social issues. So issues are not separate from the people viewing our films. If that is the understanding then it should be easier for people relate to these themes. I think people do relate to these issues. We need to make these themes available to them.

5. Your debut film Attakathi was a breezy entertainer. Would you direct a rom-com like that again?

I will if I get a chance.

6. Where are you planning to watch the FDFS (First-day first show) of Kaala?

Right here, in Chennai.