Kerala Filmmaker Nithish Sahadev Ventures into Tamil Cinema with Jiiva-Starrer
Nithish Sahadev, the Kerala-based director celebrated for the hit film 'Falimy,' is now stepping into Tamil cinema. His debut Tamil project, 'Thalaivar Thambi Thalaimaiyil,' features popular actor Jiiva in the lead role. The director recently shared insights about this new journey, his comfort with Tamil culture, and future plans involving superstar Mammootty.
Film's Origins Predate 'Falimy'
Interestingly, the idea for 'Thalaivar Thambi Thalaimaiyil' actually came before 'Falimy.' Nithish originally conceived the story in Malayalam. He revealed to The New Indian Express that real-life events near his co-writer Sanjo Joseph's house inspired the narrative.
"I first explored this concept with actor Suraj Venjaramoodu, and later with Sharaf U Dheen, but neither collaboration worked out," Nithish explained. Over time, he shelved the idea, especially as several films began using the single-night timeline format.
When the opportunity for a Tamil film emerged, Nithish felt the story naturally suited Tamil culture better than Malayalam. Together with co-writers Sanjo Joseph and Anuraj, and with additional dialogues by Vijayakumar Solaimuthu, they reimagined the script, ultimately shaping 'Thalaivar Thambi Thalaimaiyil.'
Politics, Family Drama, and Wedding Night Tensions
The film centers on a local political figure navigating intense family conflicts during a wedding ceremony. Promotional materials suggest a story deeply rooted in regional traditions, rituals, and grassroots politics.
For Nithish, this setting feels familiar. He grew up in rural Thiruvananthapuram near the Kerala-Tamil Nadu border, where cultural overlap was part of daily life.
"Tamil society was never alien to me," Nithish noted. "Tamil cinema shaped my childhood, especially since my mother was a huge fan of legendary actor Sivaji Ganesan."
Still, he acknowledges that achieving authenticity presented challenges. This is why the story unfolds in a fictional town that could belong anywhere, blending cultural elements seamlessly.
Jiiva's Trusting Approach and Professionalism
The film marks an important project for actor Jiiva, who has faced professional challenges in recent years. Nithish, a longtime admirer of Jiiva's work in films like 'Raam,' 'Katradhu Tamizh,' 'Siva Manasula Sakthi,' and particularly 'E,' found their collaboration eye-opening.
"I've worked with Basil and Mammukya, who both want complete clarity before stepping on set," Nithish reflected. "Jiiva is different. He trusts the filmmaker completely and surrenders fully to the creative process."
He suggests this trusting nature might explain why some filmmakers failed to utilize Jiiva's potential effectively. "Despite setbacks, he remains calm and ensures everyone around him feels comfortable. He stays incredibly updated, constantly tracking new developments, much like Mammukya."
Mammootty Project Back on Track
After 'Falimy,' Nithish was set to collaborate with Mammootty, but the project stalled when the actor took a break last year. The director now confirms that work will resume.
"Pre-production will restart after 'Thalaivar Thambi Thalaimaiyil' releases," Nithish said. "Mammukya plays a local gangster, and we're aiming for a grand theatrical experience." Shooting is expected to begin once Mammootty completes Adoor Gopalakrishnan's film.
Reflecting on changing audience preferences, Nithish observes that the theatrical landscape has shifted since 'Falimy.' "If it were released today, people would celebrate it on OTT platforms rather than in theaters," he admitted.
According to him, Malayalam cinema now demands spectacle alongside content, while Tamil cinema increasingly prioritizes strong storytelling. "Even big films failed last year, proving content still matters," he emphasized.
Though 'Thalaivar Thambi Thalaimaiyil' may not fit the typical 'theater film' mold, Nithish believes its climax will resonate powerfully. "At least, that's what Jiiva and the team keep telling me," he added with a smile.
Prestigious Pongal Release Slot
The unexpected postponement of Vijay's 'Jana Nayagan' created an opportunity for 'Thalaivar Thambi Thalaimaiyil' to advance its release to January 15. For Nithish, a Pongal release represents a significant milestone.
"Festival releases are always special, but for a Malayali filmmaker to release a Tamil film during Pongal feels incredible," he said. "Back home in Kerala, I'd still be struggling to secure an Onam release slot."
How 'Falimy' Opened Doors to Tamil Cinema
Nithish's entry into Tamil cinema began with discussions about remaking 'Falimy,' initiated by Jiiva himself. While the financial offer was tempting, the director was clear about not revisiting the same story.
"I was happy to sell the remake rights, but not to direct it again," Nithish laughed. Eventually, the deal collapsed after prolonged negotiations, as the production house was unwilling to part with the rights. This breakdown paved the way for an entirely new collaboration instead.
