Kunchacko Boban-starrer Ariyippu to be screened at the 75th edition of prestigious Locarno Film Festival

Acclaimed filmmaker Mahesh Narayanan has added another feat to his cap. His forthcoming directorial project, Ariyippu, starring Kunchacko Boban in the lead, has been chosen in the international competition section at the 75th Locarno Film Festival. Interestingly, this is the first Malayalam movie to achieve this rare recognition.

Kunchacko took to his social media page to inform his fans and other film lovers in Mollywood. Call it a coincidence, Udaya Pictures, one of the production companies of the project, founded by Kunchacko's grandfather is also celebrating its 75th year. The elated actor-producer thanked Mahesh and the whole team.

His post read, "The 75th Locarno Film Festival which will open on 3rd August will have a Malayalam film “ARIYIPPU” in the international competition section for the first time ever in the history of the festival. And as it coincides with the 75 year legacy of Udaya Pictures ,it indeed is a personal honour for me as well and a tribute to my Grandfather and father (sic)."

The film festival which begins in Switzerland on August 3 will culminate on August 13. Divya Prabha plays the female lead in Ariyippu which has cinematography by Sanu John Varughese and editing by Mahesh himself along with Rahul Narayanan.

Mahesh is also one of the producers of the film along with Kunchacko and Shebin Backer. Sushin Shyam has composed music for the movie which went on floors earlier this year. The movie's story revolves around a couple whose life turns topsy-turvy during the pandemic.

Ariyippu marks the fourth directorial project of Mahesh after Take Off, CU Soon and Malik. A screenwriter, editor and a cinematographer, too, one of his upcoming films is expected to have Kamal Haasan playing the lead in it. On the other hand, Nna Thaan Case Kodu is Kunchacko's next release.