The single-shot film technique has been used in many iconic films to add drama and emphasis to a scene. However, since it involves filming long takes using a single camera or made to look as if it were, this technique is less commonly used because of the amount of effort, creativity and resources it takes to pull off. But welcoming the challenge of putting something groundbreaking and contemporary, multi-talented actor, writer and director Radhakrishnan Parthiban released an entirely single-take film, Iravin Nizhal.
It took 59 settings, over 300 actors, 150 technicians, and an unbelievable amount of costume and makeup changes, all meticulously orchestrated into a single shot, to create this masterpiece. The cast and crew arranged, designed and drafted every single second of the film for 90 days to cover the 50-year span of the story. The plot surrounds the expanse of Nandhu, the main character’s life, as he searches for his mortal rival and deals with internal guilt. The scenes are presented in non-linear storytelling, leaving the audience committed to the thrilling tale.
Iravin Nizhal is the world’s first ever non-linear single-shot film. Such an artistic undertaking could only have been brought to life with only the best minds behind the scenes. Under the movie’s star-studded slate is Academy Award Winner AR Rahman, most known for his stunning musical scoring for Slumdog Millionaire. They also enlisted the Sound Design talents of Craig Mann, who won Best Sound Mixing for his work in the film, Whiplash. Additionally, the video effects are done by Cottalango Leon, an Indian-American computer graphics technician with an Academy Award for scientific and technical achievement.
Of course, it is impossible to discuss talent and brilliance without talking about the man who crafted this gem. R. Parthiban, who plays the lead role in the film while writing and directing it, is a three-time winner of the Indian National Film Awards. In his recent work, he released a single-actor film – the first in the world – that he wrote, directed and produced on his own. His repertoire is packed with blockbusters, having acted in over 72 films, directed 15 and produced 12. He is considered a New Wave filmmaker from India, with his creations deeply rooted in Indian culture and filled with fiery Tamil dialogues.
While the Indian Film Industry has long since claimed its spot in the entertainment field, R. Parthiban wants to represent Tamil Cinema and hopes his audience will recognize the new stories and voices that tell them. Iravin Nizhal is a highlight in R. Parthiban’s career, being officially submitted to the 2022 Academy Awards and as a general entry into the Oscars. Moreover, the film is now streaming on Prime Video.
- Parthiban is a veteran who has spent years in the industry and has the experience, acclaim and filmography to show for it. He succeeded to this extent in the business because of his creativity and bravery to try different things that have never been done before, forever leaving his mark in the industry.
