Lalanna's Song actor Parvathy Thiruvothu on working with women directors, starring in Prithviraj Sukumaran’s Nobody and more

Parvathy Thiruvothu has been a distinct presence in Malayalam cinema. Whether starring in popular movies such as Dulquer Salmaan’s Charlie or the noted Puzhu led by Mammootty, Parvathy has been able to stand out with her performance. The actress’ latest release is Lalanna's Song, directed by Megha Ramaswamy and also featuring Rima Kallingal. In an exclusive interview with OTTplay, Parvathy talks about the politics of Lalanna's Song, being part of women-led narratives, starring in Prithviraj Sukumaran’s Nobody and more

You play Shoby in Lalanna's Song. How did you approach your role?

With Shoby, everything I needed to know was in the dialogues and silences. What she reacts to, what she chooses to ignore. Including sometimes her child. Her inclination to make light of a situation when it scares her is a system she’s built over her whole life, which was very interesting.

Could you tell us about any of your creative inputs or improvisations for Shoby, apart from how Megha had conceived the character?

In fact, Megha did several readings with us and then on location, it was very interesting to watch the camera follow us and stay on longer than usual cut points I’m used to. So I wasn’t giving any creative inputs or improving. I was going with the flow of the way Megha was staying on these people and getting surprised there.

What struck you the most about Lalanna’s Song - is it the politics, the two women, or the titular character Lalanna and why?

All of it. The calling out of convenient politics is very stark here, and it leaves a very unsettling mark on you. Which is also very important.

You have been part of anthology segments before such as Manorathangal and Sivaranjiniyum Innum Sila Pengalum. Does the format or duration matter?

Format and duration doesn’t matter at all, I feel. However, I am very interested in seeing what a writer and director manage to achieve given the short period of time and how much of pre-work is required to ensure there is clarity to the character’s arc.

You frequently collaborate with women filmmakers - Ratheena PT in Puzhu, and Anjali Menon for Wonder Women. How easy or comfortable is it when women get together to narrate women’s stories?

It’s very easy and comfortable. There is definitely a different kind of comfort when it’s a woman who has written or is directing, however, that doesn’t mean we are always in agreement creatively. Which is brilliant as we get to push each other to explore our choices.

Your last Malayalam releases - Her, Ullozhukku, Wonder Women - all narrated women’s tales. Was it a conscious decision to concentrate on women’s narratives?

No. I’m just happy that that’s how my filmography is panning out. When I started out, a woman-led movie was a far of dream and not very frequent.

But your next project is with your Ennu Ninte Moideen co-star Prithviraj Sukumaran, Nobody. What was the most appealing factor about this film that made you say yes?

The script and Nisam (Basheer)’s vision for it. I also get to play a part with Prithvi that we haven’t done before, so that’s exciting too.

Also read - Rima Kallingal on why she said yes to Lalanna's Song, on finally working face-to-face with Parvathy Thiruvothu and more | Exclusive