In the dazzling world of Indian cinema, where screen presence and storylines often captivate audiences, some films manage to stand out due to their multifaceted appeal. Such is the case with Amal Neerad’s upcoming movie, Bougainvillea. Scheduled for release on October 17, this film is already creating a buzz, not only for its ensemble cast that includes the legendary Mammootty but also for the viral choreography by the illustrious duo, Sumesh Sundar and Jishnudas. Having previously enthralled with their expressive dance sequences in the 2021 mafia thriller Bheeshma Parvam, the duo returns with new energy and creativity.
Celebrated for their innovative approach at their dance studio, Myself and My Moves, in Thrissur, Kerala, Sumesh and Jishnudas have become household names in the choreography scene. Their recent work in the promo song ‘Sthuthi’ from Bougainvillea has taken social media by storm, with millions of views that seem to multiply by the hour. The song, brought to life with the mesmerizing voices of composer Sushin Shyam and Mary Ann Alexander, along with lyrics by Vinayak Sasikumar, sets an enchanting backdrop for the dance grooves crafted by Sumesh and Jishnudas.
Among those lighting up the screen with their phenomenal dance skills in ‘Sthuthi’ are actors Kunchacko Boban and Jyothirmayi. The latter, known for her electrifying performances in hits like ‘Chingamaasam’ from Meesha Madhavan and ‘Osama’ from Sagar Alias Jacky Reloaded, captures the audience again with her swagger and style. As Sumesh observes, “Jyothi ma’am brought a unique flair to the song, trying something fresh and executing it brilliantly.”
The dance sequence incorporates a diverse range of styles, from hip-hop and house to whacking and Afro, creating a rich tapestry of movement that complements the song’s intense and brooding atmosphere. “Each dance style was woven in carefully to highlight the song’s dark undertones while maintaining high energy with fast footwork,” explains Sumesh. The dedication to their craft was evident in the extensive 10-day rehearsal that preceded the shoot, ensuring that each move was executed to perfection.
Kunchacko Boban, a celebrated dancer, brings a dynamic presence to the song. “Chackochan, as we fondly call him, has been a delight to choreograph,” says Sumesh, recalling their previous collaboration during Bheeshma Parvam, although the dance for that film, due to unforeseen circumstances, didn’t make the final cut. The call to reunite for ‘Sthuthi’ was an unexpected but welcome opportunity for them to create magic on screen once more.
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Their collaboration with acclaimed filmmaker Amal Neerad has proven symbiotic. “Amal ettan has always had a keen interest in dance, closely following the latest in the scene and giving us creative freedom to craft the dance routines,” share Sumesh and Jishnudas. The choreographers were inspired by Neerad’s enthusiasm for innovation, as well as the references he provided, pushing them to experiment with new ideas and present something fresh.
Jishnudas elaborates on the creative process, spotlighting the unique lyrical challenges that came with the song. “The words ‘Karthavinu sthuthi’ posed an amazing challenge for us. We had to deliver choreography that was imaginative and in sync with the song’s somber tone, which meant incorporating minute, fast-paced steps that demanded precision,” he recalls. Kunchacko Boban’s dedication shone through as he participated in rehearsals, mastering the moves despite a hand injury during filming.
The song’s production brought together a talented team, many of whom had worked previously on Bheeshma Parvam. This familiar environment, with professionals like composer Sushin Shyam, lyricist Vinayak Sasikumar, and cinematographer Anend C Chandran, created a seamless synergy that greatly benefited the filming process.
Sumesh and Jishnudas’s deep-rooted friendship dates back to their school days, a bond that found a creative outlet in their joint venture, Myself and My Moves, initiated as a dance community in 2016. Their studio, which has become a nurturing ground for dancers, saw sixteen performers from their troupe feature in the song, along with five others who assisted in the choreography. Their dance videos on YouTube were what first caught the eye of Amal Neerad, leading to their initial collaboration on Bheeshma Parvam with the songs ‘Parudeesa’ and ‘Rathipushpam.’
Their burgeoning filmography includes works such as Paltu Janwar, Oru Thekkan Thallu Case, and Anuragam, among others. Each project helped establish their reputation as masters of choreography, notwithstanding the personal achievements of Jishnudas, who earned a Kerala State Film Award for Choreography for Sulaikha Manzil.
As they continue to expand their horizons, the duo hints at a forthcoming dance-centric film project, leaving their fans eagerly anticipating yet another groundbreaking venture. Indeed, Sumesh Sundar and Jishnudas stand out as dynamic innovators in the world of dance, captivating audiences and keeping the spirit of dance alive and thriving in contemporary cinema.
