However, Anurag kashyap had not given up on the character. He decided to create a new web series, which would feature Manju Warrier in the lead role of Kusum Devi Yadav.
The Birth of Kusum Devi Yadav
Anurag Kashyap had envisioned Kusum Devi Yadav as a strong, intelligent, and fearless RAW agent. He wanted the character to be a complex and multi-dimensional one, with a rich backstory and a deep sense of purpose. Kashyap’s vision for Kusum was to create a character that would resonate with the audience, and inspire them to take action against corruption and injustice. Key characteristics of Kusum Devi Yadav: + Strong and intelligent + Fearless and determined + Complex and multi-dimensional + Rich backstory and deep sense of purpose
The Web Series: The Family Man
The web series, titled “The Family Man”, was Anurag Kashyap’s attempt to bring Kusum Devi Yadav to life. The series follows the story of Kusum, a RAW agent who is tasked with taking down a corrupt politician.
However, Kashyap explained that at the time, Netflix did not have an Indian office, and casting decisions were made by the team in the United States. He pointed out that OTT platforms in those days were not actively seeking actors from the South Indian industry. “At that time, OTT platforms were not really looking at South films. They were not considering the South market. They wanted actors from regions where their subscriber base was already strong. Their choices were driven by algorithms and audience demographics,” he added. Kashyap, who has often praised Malayalam cinema, also spoke about his rapport with Manju Warrier. He revealed that she had approached him for feedback on her upcoming film Footage, as she was planning its Hindi release.
The Concept of Footage
The movie’s central theme revolves around the idea of capturing and sharing the truth. The couple, played by Manju Warrier and her co-star, embark on a journey to uncover the truth behind a series of mysterious events. Their YouTube vlogs become a platform for them to share their findings, and the audience is drawn into their world of mystery and suspense. The couple’s vlogs are filled with cryptic clues and hints, leaving the audience wondering what’s real and what’s not. As they delve deeper into the mystery, they begin to experience strange occurrences that blur the lines between reality and fiction. The film’s use of found footage adds to the sense of realism, making it difficult for the audience to distinguish between what’s real and what’s staged.
The Director’s Vision
Saiju Sreedharan, the director of Footage, brings a unique perspective to the film. With a background in filmmaking, he has a deep understanding of the medium and its potential for storytelling. His vision for the film is to create a sense of unease and tension, keeping the audience on the edge of their seats. Saiju’s use of long takes and close-ups creates a sense of intimacy and immediacy, drawing the audience into the world of the film. The film’s score is minimalist, adding to the sense of unease and tension.
