'Writing comedy is a challenge these days'

...says scriptwriter Bibin George, who is debuting as the hero in hitmaker Shafi's new film Oru Pazhaya Bomb Kadha
'Writing comedy is a challenge these days'

He co-wrote two superhit films, Amar Akbar Anthony and Kattapanayile Ritwik Roshan, and has dreamt, along with his scriptwriting partner Vishnu Unnikrishnan, of being a leading man for more than a decade. This wish has finally come true for scriptwriter Bibin George as he'll be soon seen as hero in director Shafi's upcoming Oru Pazhaya Bomb Kadha. And Vishnu, who debuted as hero with Kattapanayile.. has a guest role in the film.

The film also marks the first time that a physically challenged actor has been cast in the lead role. On his character, Bibin says: "I play a simple, innocent village guy who, despite being physically challenged, doesn't see it as an issue and moves along unfettered. But then a certain incident happens and he seeks revenge for it. However, this is not a dark story. It has all the usual Shafi ingredients -- emotions, romance, humour -- and carries a small message for our society. "

Given the fact that Shafi is known for delivering some superhits like Kalyanaraman and Two Countries, there is naturally a certain level of expectation associated with this film.

The director has mentioned earlier that this film was a new experience for him, different from anything he has done so far. And Bibin is quite nervous about how people are going to view him. "I'm tensed, obviously. You may think you did a good job but unless the audience gives their verdict, you can't make a proper evaluation of yourself. I can only relax properly after the movie comes out."

Bibin started his career at the age of 17 and has served as a comedy writer on the TV shows Badai Bungalow and Comedy Cousins. Writing comedy in this age of WhatsApp and Facebook is a challenge, says Bibin. "Sometimes you feel that you're nothing in front of these meme creators and trolls. People are constantly bombarded with different kinds of memes on social media. And it has become a challenge to come up with material that don't seem dated. We have to constantly upgrade ourselves."

Bibin is paired opposite Prayaga Martin, who plays his love interest. Hareesh Kanaran plays his friend, and according to Bibin, this is Hareesh's best role so far. Vijayaraghavan, Kalabhavan Shajohn, Harisree Ashokan, and Balachandran Chullikad appear in supporting roles.

So what has he got lined up next? "I'm doing a project with Dulquer Salmaan which will start rolling on July 3. It's a pure entertainer. Debutant BC Noufal is directing it. This is the only Malayalam movie of Dulquer that will be coming out this year. I and Vishnu have important roles. Vishnu will be playing Dulquer's companion."

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The New Indian Express
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