LINK TO ASSET: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Uxurae9S5T4
The Goat Life has been generating significant buzz since its announcement and continues to be a topic of conversation. The Kerala Literature Festival 2024, recently saw renowned writer Benyamin and director Blessy, their opinion on the relationship between Malayalam cinema and literature enlightened and entertained the audience. In a panel discussion, they contributed their expertise with a special video of a behind-the-scenes glimpse of author Benyamin and director Blessy discussing adapting books into films. Offering valuable perspectives on shooting techniques, film direction, and the art of transforming literature on screen, their presence at the festival further emphasized the deep connection between the novel ‘Aadujeevitham’ and the upcoming film, The Goat Life.
Speaking about the challenges faced while adapting The Goat Life from a novel to the big screen, director, Blessy said, “Our greatest hurdle lay in meeting audience expectations and surpassing their imaginative interpretations, given the familiarity of the novel. The novel is read by everyone hence they have their own perception and visual imagery attached to it. Each film is inevitably influenced by our individual references, and my works consistently explore human emotions that resonate universally, drawing from personal encounters, stories heard, or our own experiences. Crafting Najib’s character presented a unique challenge, as neither I nor Prithviraj had any predefined guidance for his portrayal. Adding to this, the writer of The Goat Days, Benyamin said, “It is a film which has no references to look into”.
In the festival, Visual Romance released a video in which Benyamin and Blessy discuss the problems and payoffs of translating literature into cinema.
They explored the age-old controversy about the relationship between the cinema and literature. They particularly concentrated on the situation in Malayalam cinema, where books and stories have been transformed into movies. They also talked about how often the writers had to give up their creative freedom to align with the director’s vision. At that point, they emphasized the difference between reading a novel where individuals visualize the story in their own way, vs a cinematic experience which provides them with another view. They highlighted the director’s potential to imbue his/her identity and narrative style into the adaptation, presenting audiences with a more or less unique visual experience. The chat touched on the inner spheres of cinematography, discussing the visual language that turns stories into a moving picture.
The Goat Life is based on the novel ‘Aadujeevitham’, one of the most popular best sellers ever from the Malayalam literary world, which has been translated into 12 different languages, including foreign ones. Penned by noted writer Benyamin, it follows the true story of the life of a young man Najeeb, who in the early 90s migrates from the lush green shores of Kerala to search for the fortunes in a land abroad. The film features Malayalam superstar Prithviraj Sukumaran, Hollywood actor Jimmy Jean-Louis, Amala Paul, Indian actor K.R.Gokul, and renowned Arab actors Talib al Balushi and RikAby in pivotal roles.
The Goat Life is all set to release in theatres near you on 10th April 2024, in Hindi, Malayalam, Tamil, Telugu, and Kannada
About Visual Romance:
Visual Romance is a distinguished Indian film production house headquartered in Kerala, boasting a formidable national presence. In a short span of 7 years, the company has established itself as a creative powerhouse, leaving an indelible mark on the industry. Visual Romance achieved a milestone in the world of cinema with the production of “100 Years of Chrysostom,” a documentary of unprecedented duration lasting 48 hours. Widely acclaimed and appreciated, this ground-breaking project secured a coveted place in the Guinness Book of World Records, marking Visual Romance’s dedication to cinematic excellence. Founded by the visionary filmmaker Mr. Blessy Ipe Thomas, Visual Romance embodies his passion for storytelling and commitment to cinematic artistry. Blessy’s craft has earned him significant recognition, including one National Film Award and an impressive count of six Kerala State Film Awards, establishing him as a luminary in Indian cinema. Under the adept leadership of Mr. Blessy Ipe Thomas, Visual Romance continues to shape the narrative of Indian cinema. With a focus on creativity, innovation, and a penchant for breaking records, Visual Romance is poised to contribute significantly to the evolving landscape of Indian filmmaking
