Tamil Nadu - Tiruchi

The `nature' of approach helped them to succeed

G. Prasad

Jhananathan and Ekhambram's chemistry shows in `Iyarkai', `E' The backdrop for `E' is totally different from `Iyarkai,' as the story mostly revolves around slum areas.

IMPRESSIVE N.K.Ekhambaram (left) and S.P. Jhananathan Photo: M. Moorthy

Tiruchi: Director S.P. Jhananathan and cinematographer N.K. Ekhambram seem to enjoy a special chemistry.

The duo left a lasting impression in `Iyarkai.'

And in `E' they have continued the good show.

"A cameraman should be able to get into the director's mind and accordingly give the best," says Ekhambram, who missed out the `Best Cinematographer', National Award for `Iyarkai' by a whisker.

Ekhambram worked as an assistant to Jeeva in `Vaali' and `Kushi' before making his debut in `Tamizhan'.

Big assignment

"It was a big assignment, with Vijay doing the title role. The picturisation of the songs won accolades. But it was `Iyarkai' that gave me an identity," he smiles at Jhana, who in return praises: "Ekhambram is a workaholic. He is spontaneous and never puts pressure on himself and others."

With his debut-venture `Iyarkai' bagging a National Award for the Best Regional Film in Tamil, no wonder Jhana is excited sharing the experience.

"I worked on the story of `Iyarkai' for quite sometime as I was determined to make it a memorable one. Ekhambram's imaginative camera work gave life to the visuals."

The splendid cinematography for the song `Kadhal vandhal... ' says it all unveiling the sheer effort behind it.

"There will be variation in the lighting while shooting at the beach and timing plays a crucial role. Jhana and I used to visit the spot one-day in advance and prepare ourselves mentally. When we saw the output on screen we were thrilled," explains Ekhambram, presently working for an English movie.

Though disappointed that `Iyarkai' didn't make a big impression in the box office, Jhana still insists the movie isn't a failure.

Jhana, who began as an assistant to Rajan in the film `Solaikuyil', later worked as a deputy to K.R for 15 films including the super-hit `Eramana Rojave'.

But it was his stint under editor-director B. Lenin, which he cherishes the most.

"I have learnt a lot from him," he gushes. And when Lenin patted him for his work in `Iyarkai', Jhana admits that it was something unforgettable.

Rave reviews

Now his Diwali-release `E', with Jeeva in the lead, has also won rave reviews.

"I am often being asked why my movies are off the beaten-track. Frankly, I still don't understand the meaning of commercial cinema. My aim is to give quality movie."

The backdrop for `E' is totally different from `Iyarkai', as the story mostly revolves around slum areas.

Still Ekhambram feels it was challenging. "While shooting I always prefer natural light as it does not disturb the story. Everyone knows how slums look. So, it is important to picturise these places from a different angle."

The good response for `E' has come as a boost for the duo.

"We understand each other well. We wish to carry on and would like to make meaningful cinemas," they say.

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