Acclaimed Bengaluru filmmaker Raam Reddy, celebrated for his Berlin 2024 selection Jugalbandi and his Locarno-winning debut Thithi from 2015, is officially developing his third feature film. Titled Lavender Fire, the project is a coming-of-age drama that will immerse audiences in the dynamic world of Mumbai's modeling and influencer industry.
Returning to Authentic Roots
In a significant creative decision, Reddy is returning to the filmmaking approach that brought him initial success. He has confirmed that for Lavender Fire, he will once again cast non-professional actors, a technique he masterfully employed in his first film, Thithi. Furthermore, he is reversing the conventional screenwriting process by casting his characters before he writes the script.
"I've gone back to my roots in terms of process," the director stated. He emphasized that this method is a deliberate choice to inject a high level of authenticity into the project. By designing the writing to be the final step of pre-production, Reddy aims to capture the essence and spontaneity of the individuals he casts. He believes that true creative freedom in cinema comes from collecting real-life elements and then weaving them into the narrative, rather than forcing a pre-written script onto performers.
A High-Energy Glimpse into Modern Mumbai
The narrative of Lavender Fire will revolve around three siblings in their twenties as they navigate the complexities of life and ambition in contemporary Mumbai. Reddy describes the film as a high-energy, ultimately feel-good film that maintains a non-judgmental perspective towards the various social environments and subcultures it explores.
This focus promises a vibrant and empathetic look at the city's youth culture, particularly within the glamorous yet demanding spheres of modeling and social media influence. The project marks an exciting new chapter for the filmmaker, blending his signature realistic style with a fresh, modern setting.
