Eko Director Celebrates Film's Success and Unique Casting Experience
Director Dinjith Ayyathan is currently riding high on the success of his latest cinematic venture, 'Eko', which has been receiving widespread applause from audiences and critics alike. The film, which hit theaters on November 21, has been particularly praised for its compelling narrative and powerful performances that have resonated deeply with viewers.
International Casting: A Blessing in Disguise
In a recent exclusive interview, the 46-year-old filmmaker opened up about one of the most surprising aspects of the project - working with international actors. Dinjith revealed that initially, there were significant concerns about casting foreign artists, especially given the production's extremely tight timeline. "We had only a week to decide on them, so we were unable to properly train them or hold an audition," the director confessed during his conversation with OTTPlay.
However, what seemed like a potential obstacle turned into an unexpected advantage. Dinjith described the experience as remarkably smooth and ultimately fulfilling, praising the international cast members for their exceptional commitment and adaptability that exceeded all expectations.
Breakthrough Performances That Stole the Show
The director specifically highlighted Malaysian actress Sim Zhi Fei, who made her acting debut with 'Eko' and delivered what can only be described as an impactful performance. Dinjith expressed immense satisfaction with her portrayal, emphasizing that she delivered far beyond expectations for a debutante.
Her co-actor Ng Hung Shen, who played her on-screen husband Yosiah, also earned the filmmaker's admiration for his professional approach. "He handled the lengthy dialogues with such ease and didn't use a lot of takes," Dinjith shared, appreciating the actor's efficiency and natural talent.
The Unconventional Casting of Mlaathi Chettathi
Perhaps the most unique casting decision involved the actress who played Mlaathi Chettathi. Unlike the other cast members, she wasn't a professional performer but rather a respected community member and teacher by profession. Dinjith described working with her as "exciting" and commended her passion for cinema.
The director credited 'Ullozhukku' director Christo Tomy for suggesting her name. "After a month of preparation and an audition, we ultimately chose her," Dinjith revealed, highlighting the careful consideration that went into this particular casting decision despite the overall tight schedule.
Box Office Success and Critical Acclaim
The film's quality has translated into commercial success, with 'Eko' currently enjoying a strong run in theaters. According to data from Sacnilk, the movie has collected an impressive over Rs 13.1 crore in just eight days since its release, indicating strong audience turnout and positive word-of-mouth.
This box office performance, combined with the critical appreciation for its story and performances, marks another significant achievement in Dinjith Ayyathan's directorial career, demonstrating that thoughtful casting and strong storytelling continue to be the cornerstones of successful filmmaking in Indian cinema.
