Transcending the norms of the average thriller, working on Saiju Sreedharan’s Footage was a ground-breaking experience for actress Gayathri Ashok, something that deviated from traditional storytelling methods. In an insightful interview, she revealed details about her time teaming up with National Film Award recipient Manju Warrier for Footage, and offered valuable perspectives on the filmmaking world.
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Working on Footage with Manju Warrier, Acclaim and the Collective Experience: Gayathri Ashok
Revolutionary and novel, the found-footage concept is relatively new in the world of Malayalam cinema, with Footage being only the second of its kind to come out. Referring to the thought behind this, Gayathri remarked, “The found-footage style revolutionized our approach to storytelling. By presenting the narrative through handheld camera footage, we created an immersive experience for the audience. This technique made our characters’ emotions and interactions feel incredibly genuine.”
“As the lead actress, I found the unconventional storytelling both challenging and inspiring. It required me to think creatively and adapt quickly to the demands of the script. My character’s journey, alongside Vishak’s, drives the narrative, slowly unraveling an unexposed secret. This unique storytelling approach sets our film apart from other thrillers.”
She further added, “The found-footage genre offers a new kind of storytelling experience. The technical aspect of the film is a major highlight, providing the audience with a live, firsthand feel of the events. My challenge was to make my character feel authentic and real, which was achieved through the immersive nature of the found-footage style.”
With a demanding shooting process, it is not easy for an actor to consistently deliver high-quality performances. Yet, something about working alongside her idol made the task a lot smoother for Gayathri. In her words, “What made this experience even more special was watching my idol, Manju Warrier chechi, being equally thrilled about this new kind of movie making. I’ve always admired her work, and to see her curiosity and enthusiasm was truly inspiring. It felt like we were all students in a new university, learning and exploring together. Manju chechi was as curious as Vishak and I, and I could sense her excitement about shooting a film like this for the first time.”
“The overwhelming appreciation from audiences and critics has been truly heartening. Seeing the impact of our film on viewers has solidified its importance in my career, opening doors to new opportunities and encouraging me to explore innovative storytelling.”
Considering it as a career highlight, the actress reflected, “What’s more, it sparked curiosity among my friends, who constantly asked me about the shooting process and how each shot was taken. I was delighted to share my experience, feeling privileged to be one of the select few, along with my co-stars, who got to be part of this pioneering found-footage film in Indian cinema.”
“Working on this found-footage film was a transformative experience that pushed me creatively and professionally. I look forward to continuing to challenge myself in unconventional storytelling endeavours.”
Quite a fan of challenges, Gayathri believes in a craft that pushes the boundaries of storytelling. Reiterating the same, she said, “I crave roles that not only showcase my range but also seamlessly integrate into the narrative, elevating the overall impact of the film. Whether it’s a positive or negative character, lead or supporting role, I’m eager to take on diverse genres and complex personas. My goal is to deliver performances that leave an indelible mark, making audiences believe that I’m the only one who can bring that character to life.”
“I’m excited about the current wave of experimentation in the South Indian film industry, particularly in Malayalam cinema. The audience’s willingness to embrace innovative storytelling and unconventional characters has created a fertile ground for artistic growth.”
The Ideal Script and more with Gayathri
For Gayathri the ideal script is one where, “the writer has envisioned me playing a specific role, tailoring the character to my strengths and unique sensibilities. I’m prepared to embark on this challenging journey, seeking out projects that will test my limits, spark creativity, and ultimately, leave a lasting impression on the audience.”
Refraining from picking favourites in the industry, the actor wishes to embark on an artistic journey. She says, “My goal is to leverage the influential power of cinema to inspire and positively impact audiences. I strive to take on characters that not only captivate but also empower viewers, providing them with valuable life lessons, mental resilience, or motivation to overcome adversity.”
“I aim to balance my passion for entertaining audiences with a commitment to thought-provoking storytelling. By being part of films that spark meaningful conversations and resonate with viewers on a deeper level, I hope to contribute to a more empathetic and enlightened society. Ultimately, my aspiration is to leave a lasting, positive imprint on the world through my work, inspiring audiences to reflect, grow, and become better versions of themselves.”
Regardless, there must have been a role which made the career a definitive choice for the actress. She elaborates, “Reflecting on my journey, I’m grateful for each project that has contributed to my growth as an actor. Every character has presented unique challenges, helping me evolve and refine my craft.”
“My entry into the industry with Ladoo was a serendipitous moment. With no formal training or experience, I was initially shy and uncertain. However, the audition process sparked an epiphany, and I discovered my passion for acting.”
It has been a thrilling but educative journey, over the years, for Gayathri. With nothing but warmth, she mulls, “From Ladoo to Footage, each role has been a learning curve. Footage, in particular, was the most technically demanding project I’ve undertaken. The found-footage genre required immense energy, physical endurance, and mental toughness. The experience was both exhausting and exhilarating.”
“The appreciation I received from acclaimed filmmaker Anurag Kashyap for my performance in Footage was a surreal moment. It validated my hard work and reinforced my passion for acting. This project will always hold a special place in my heart, and I cherish the experience and the lessons learned.”
Navigating the continually evolving industry
Continually evolving and regenerating, the film industry has not really been a walk in the park for Gayathri. The actress remarks on the positive changes as a need of the times. In her words, “The portrayal of women in films has undergone a significant transformation over time, mirroring the evolution of societal values, lifestyles, and perspectives. As our generation advances, the importance and role of women in society have expanded, leading to a shift in how they are represented on screen.”
Offering some timeless knowledge, she continues, “Historically, women’s characters in films were often depicted through the lens of their era, reflecting the limited freedoms and societal constraints of the time. In contrast, contemporary cinema showcases women with greater agency, independence, and complexity, resonating with modern audiences. The progression from rare, revolutionary women-centric characters to widespread acceptance of female-led films demonstrates a significant cultural shift. Each generation has contributed to this growth, offering more freedom and understanding to women, which, in turn, influences the characters and storylines in films.”
“Personally, I feel fortunate to be living in a time where women are celebrated for their talents, rather than being shunned or ostracized. I’m thankful that I wasn’t born in an era where pioneering actresses like PK Rosy were persecuted for their profession. The fact that her work was considered a “crime” is a sobering reminder of how far we’ve come, and I’m proud to be part of a more inclusive and progressive industry.”
With her unique approach to acting and her commitment to authentic storytelling, Gayathri Ashok is a visionary who is shaping the future of Malayalam cinema.
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