In the days leading up to the release of his latest film, Boat, acclaimed director Chimbudeven took a moment from his hectic schedule to discuss the ambitious project. Despite the typical last-minute rush to complete the work, the cartoonist-turned-filmmaker eagerly shared insights into the creation of the Yogi Babu-starrer, which largely unfolds on a boat amidst the vast sea.
Chimbudeven drew inspiration from classic literature while developing the story. “I remember reading Ernest Hemingway’s ‘The Old Man and the Sea’ during my school days, and that was a significant inspiration for this film. Over the years, other narratives like Sandilyan’s ‘Kadal Pura’ and ‘Thanneer Desam,’ and various other films set at sea, have captivated me,” he said. The multifaceted nature of the sea — constantly evolving with the interplay of clouds, sky, wind, and weather — added layers to the film, set against the backdrop of the political climate of 1943 and the resilience of humanity.
The director also shared a historical anecdote that informed the narrative of Boat. A friend’s ancestor recounted how approximately 500,000 people from Madras fled into the sea to escape bombings by Japanese aircraft during World War II. This real-life event provided a poignant foundation for the film’s story.
However, Chimbudeven admitted that writing the captivating storyline was just the beginning of their challenges. Filming at sea proved significantly more complex than anticipated. “Cinematographer Madhesh Manickam and I scouted for suitable locations, but we faced heavy tides at most spots. Ultimately, we settled on Uvari near Tiruchendur, overcoming the difficulties of strong waves and crowded areas,” he revealed.
Securing an appropriate boat for the movie also posed a substantial hurdle. The team initially obtained a small vessel that did not suffice for the requirements of ten people moving around freely. “Late art director Santhanam finally discovered a boat in Kerala which had to be modified in Rameshwaram, as traditional oar-propelled boats are no longer available,” explained Chimbudeven.
Even with the right boat, numerous difficulties persisted. “Filming at sea is unlike any other location. Predicting tidal changes was impossible, and we had to adapt to the sea’s whims, calling it ‘kadal thaai’ or ‘mother sea’ for a reason,” the director elaborated. Three days of acclimation were necessary before they commenced serious shooting. Furthermore, safety measures included having fishermen accompany them, and the team faced logistical problems like recovering fallen equipment from the water and dealing with fluctuating natural light, requiring days to complete certain scenes.
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Despite these challenges, Chimbudeven believes the authenticity of these experiences will resonate with audiences. “The audience doesn’t necessarily need to know the struggles we faced. What really matters is the final product. Whether a film is shot in space or inside a volcano, it must convert its experiences into a compelling story. I trust Boat has achieved that,” he expressed confidently.
Chimbudeven has a penchant for period settings, as evidenced by his earlier films like Pulikecei, Irumbukkottai Murattu Singam, and Puli. “Our current sophisticated life is a result of decisions made by our forefathers. Our history profoundly influences our present, sparking my interest,” he commented. Chimbudeven voiced his belief that India’s historical narratives, particularly those involving freedom fighters from regions like Bengal, have not received the recognition they deserve. He pointed out the significant yet overlooked role Indians played during World War II, often neglected in global depictions.
Based on the film’s trailer, which features characters of diverse ethnic, religious, and linguistic backgrounds aboard the boat, viewers may interpret the vessel as a metaphor for the country itself. Chimbudeven is known for embedding such metaphors into his works. “A scene can have multiple layers. If the primary plot is strong with great performances, audiences will accept the underlying metaphors. As a former cartoonist, I’ve carried this narrative style into my filmmaking,” he said.
Chimbudeven also discussed his casting choices. In Boat, he picks Yogi Babu, a comedian-turned-lead actor, reflecting his tendency to select actors based on the story’s demands. “If the story requires a particular actor and it’s financially feasible, anyone can be the protagonist. The goal is a successful film, regardless of the actor’s background,” he asserted.
As Boat prepares for its release on August 2, Chimbudeven’s reflections reveal a filmmaker deeply passionate about his craft, history, and the intricate process of storytelling, promising audiences a narrative that is both engaging and thought-provoking.
