Actor-politician Suresh Gopi is all set to headline a new Malayalam film titled Maniyan Chittappan, which will be part of the same universe as the recently-released sci-fi mockumentary Gaganachari. The makers of the film shared the first look on Thursday, June 27, introducing Suresh Gopi's titular character as "a crazy mad scientist and wanderer of the cosmos." Gaganachari director Arun Chandu is helming the new film as well, with his co-writer Siva Sai also returning to pen the new instalment in the now-fledgling franchise
Suresh Gopi shared the motion poster on his Instagram handle with the caption, "Here's a small surprise to all… Wanderer of the cosmos, crazy mad scientist of Gaganachari universe. Here's 'MANIYAN CHITTAPPAN' Stay tuned! (sic)"
A Peculiar Story-Telling
Gaganachari has been directed by Arun Chandu, known for helming films like Saajan Bakery Since 1962 (2021) and Sayanna Varthakal (2022). The long-delayed film had finally released a week ago to overwhelming positive response, especially for its quirky performances and experimentative story-telling narrative.
A Dystopian Mockumentary
Gaganachari, jointly scripted by Arun and debutant Siva Sai, stars Anarkali Marikar, Gokul Suresh, Aju Varghese and Ganesh Kumar in the lead roles. This dystopian science fiction mockumentary was shot in Kochi during the lockdown period, complying with COVID protocols. Bankrolled by Ajith Vinayaka Films, Gaganachari was selected for screening at nine international film festivals. The film had an exclusive premiere earlier this year in Kochi, where it received much critical acclaim, and has followed up with the same kind of response from a larger audience.
Gaganachari has cinematography by Surjith S Pai, editing by Ceejay Achu, and music by Sankar Sharma. Aravind Manmadhan is the co-editor. Recently, the National Award-winning filmmaker Krishand had joined the team as the executive producer of the film.