Gautham Vasudev Menon Marks 25 Years in Cinema with Reflections on Music and Storytelling
In an exclusive interview, acclaimed filmmaker Gautham Vasudev Menon, who completes a remarkable 25 years in the film industry today, opens up about a journey deeply influenced by music, raw emotion, and an unshakeable commitment to storytelling. Celebrating this significant milestone, Menon shares insights into his creative philosophy and the elements that have defined his cinematic legacy.
'I Don't Know What I Would Have Been If I Wasn't in Cinema'
Looking back at his quarter-century in cinema, Gautham Menon reveals that his belief in the power of films has only grown stronger over time. 'The fact that I'm still in it and trying to stay relevant shows how strongly I believe in the world of films and my desire to be a part of it,' he states. 'I'm happy being here. I don't know what I would have been if I weren't in cinema.' He credits music as a major inspiration, noting that the songs he listened to while growing up, along with life experiences and other films, fueled his passion for filmmaking. 'Whatever I see, read or write eventually turns into visual imagery for me,' he adds. 'Sometimes films connect with people, sometimes they don't — that's part of the business. But whatever I've made, I've made from my heart.'
'My Films Talk About Life and Journeys, But It's the Music That Stays'
With 20 films to his credit, including one unreleased project, Menon emphasizes that music forms the strongest emotional bond between his work and audiences. 'My films talk about life and journeys, but it's the music that stays,' he explains. 'That is the legacy I want — to be remembered as a filmmaker known for the music in his films and the stories they carry forward.' This focus on musicality has become a hallmark of his career, resonating deeply with fans across generations.
'My Days Are Filled with Writing, Directing, Reading and Watching a Lot of Films'
When asked about balancing directing with occasional acting roles, Menon laughs and shares his laid-back approach. 'I honestly don't wake up thinking about what I'm going to direct or act in today — I'm not tuned that way,' he says. 'If something genuinely good comes along, I might say 'Yes' and take the acting opportunity forward. Otherwise, my days are filled with writing, directing, reading and watching a lot of films, and that's what I want to continue doing.'
'VTV Remains Deeply Connected to Me'
Reflecting on his filmography, Menon singles out Vinnaithaandi Varuvaayaa (2010) as a personal favorite that still carries his distinctive stamp. 'It's a film that still rules in theatres and remains deeply connected to me,' he remarks. On the possibility of another film in the emotional vein of Vaaranam Aayiram (2008), he confidently responds, 'Kandippa irukku,' hinting at future projects that may revisit similar themes.
'I Make Films That I'd Like to Watch'
Addressing the notion that creativity might be linked to age, Menon dismisses rigid rules or timelines. 'Every once in a while, a film comes along that proves there are no formulas,' he observes. 'Some films work despite not being 'new-age' or trend-driven, and even a 10–15-year-old film can find resonance today.' He stresses that he has never tailored his films to commercial logic alone. 'I simply make films that I'd like to watch. If it connects with me, I hope it connects with the audience.' This instinct-driven approach has remained constant throughout his career. 'Whether it was 25 years ago, today, or even 10 or 15 years from now, I will continue to write and make films based on instinct, not on trends or what is supposedly working at the moment.'
Upcoming Works and Acknowledgments
Currently focused on resolving issues around the release of Dhruva Natchathiram, Menon reveals he has already penned a couple of new stories — a love story and an action film. Depending on his mood, he plans to begin work on one of them soon. He also expresses gratitude to the producers and actors who have supported his journey. 'We may have the vision and ideas, but we need people who help put it all together,' he notes. Acknowledging the pivotal role of music, he highlights how the soundtrack of Minnale brought attention to the film and thanks composers like Harris Jayaraj, AR Rahman, Ilaiyaraaja, and Darbuka Siva for their contributions.
As Gautham Vasudev Menon celebrates 25 years in cinema, his reflections underscore a career built on passion, authenticity, and a deep connection to music and storytelling, promising more heartfelt creations in the years to come.
