Nimalan Munusamy is an up-and-coming director who has quickly gained recognition in the industry. Not just limited to directing, Nimalan has showcased his versatility by taking on various behind-the-scenes roles, including assistant director, production designer, grip, gaffer, assistant cinematographer, editor, writer, and more. This breadth of experience defines him as a multitalented individual. Despite being a young and rising talent in the entertainment industry, he has already equipped himself with extensive knowledge, skills, and expertise. He has been an integral part of the Malaysian Tamil film industry for several years now.
Since the beginning of his career, Nimalan Munusamy has never stopped learning, continually honing his skills and expanding his knowledge. This dedication has shaped him into the director he is today, enabling him to craft films with precision and creativity. His evolution as a director stems from his relentless thirst for knowledge and his passion for creating invaluable art in the film industry.
Nimalan Munusamy’s passion for filmmaking was ignited during his school years, when certain films left a lasting impression on him. When asked about the movies that inspired him, he listed Hey Ram, The Pursuit of Happyness, Chungking Express, Pariyerum Perumal, Katrathu Tamizh, The Motorcycle Diaries, Aaranya Kaandam, Chippa, and Iraivi. Each of these films offers a unique cinematic experience, covering a wide range of genres, themes, and storytelling styles. This blend of influences reflects Nimalan’s distinctive perspective and his deep commitment to creating meaningful art in the world of cinema.
Shortly after finishing school, Nimalan began writing stories and studying filmmaking online, driven by his deep passion for the art. His thirst for knowledge led him to continuously learn and master various aspects of filmmaking. To further enhance his skills, he pursued higher education in mass communication. Even while studying, Nimalan collaborated with his friends to create short films, showcasing his commitment to developing his craft from an early stage.
At 17, I directed my first short film, which opened the door to gaining hands-on experience on various film sets. During this time, I took on multiple roles in different projects, allowing me to deepen my understanding of the filmmaking process. Alongside this practical experience, I also completed a Diploma in Mass Communication, further enhancing my skills and knowledge.
Nimalan’s first short film was an experimental project that he and his friends shot using whatever equipment they had at their disposal. Although they didn’t release the film, it became a crucial stepping stone for Nimalan, helping him discover and understand the many aspects of filmmaking. Through this project, he also took on multiple roles across different projects, further deepening his understanding of the filmmaking process. The experience taught him valuable lessons, sharpening his skills and fueling his passion for the craft.
From there, Nimalan became involved in numerous projects. Notably, he worked on the music video ‘Ethirparathe Alai’, the telemovie ‘Kanmani Anbodu Kadhalan’, the Astro series ‘Ippadiku Ila’, the RTM telemovie ‘Yugam Puthiyathu’, the Astro telemovie ‘Diary’, and the ‘Come’Achi’ music video from the theatrical film ‘Naam Katra Isai’, which hit theaters last year. The ‘Come’Achi’ song became a trending hit, enjoyed by many. Additionally, Nimalan contributed to Zubir Khan’s famous song ‘Yennode Macha’, which became an internet sensation. He also worked on Astro’s series ‘Mangai Nee’. Nimalan recently directed a music video, ‘Karai Kadanthen’ starring Loga Varman and Theva Murugan. The song was sung by the acclaimed Malaysian singer, Dhilip Varman.
It’s surprising to see that Nimalan has contributed to so many acclaimed projects. However, many of us don’t pay much attention to the credit scenes after movies, where the names of those working behind the scenes are listed. As a result, we often fail to recognize the individuals who put immense effort into shaping each film from behind the camera. Despite his significant contributions, Nimalan’s work may not always be immediately visible, but his dedication to each project is undeniable.
Beyond his numerous contributions to various projects, Nimalan set his sights on an even bigger goal, pushing himself to reach new milestones in his career. He directed a pilot film titled ‘Vizhi Neerum Veenaaga‘, a significant achievement in his journey as a filmmaker. A pilot film serves as a proof of concept, showcasing a story with the potential to be expanded into a full-length feature film. Through this project which started in 2020, Nimalan demonstrated his ability not only to tell compelling stories but also to envision the broader scope of a cinematic narrative, marking a major step forward in his filmmaking career.
“’Vizhi Neerum Veenaaga (VNV)’ is an experimental art film that has been a labor of love for our team over the years. We initially created a pilot and submitted it to international film festivals, where it garnered significant attention and acclaim,” says Nimalan. The film features a talented cast, including Punitah Shanmugam, Haimavathy, and Huumesh. Cinematography is by TS Mathan, with music composed by Hari Mahendran and additional songs by Sharvien Thangaraju.
This pilot film broke barriers and made history, receiving recognition on many prestigious platforms. In 2022, it won several awards for its exceptional quality. The list of accolades includes:
– Best Asian Movie at the Cannes World Film Festival
– Special Mention at the London International Monthly Film Festival
– Winner at the Rameshwaram International Film Festival, where it also received awards for Best Editor, Best Cinematography, and Best Actor (Female)
– Best Asian Short Film at the Atvikvaruni International Film Festival
– Finalist at the New York Istanbul Film Festival
– Best International Short Film, Best Director, and Best Cinematography at the Sittanavasal International Film Festival
– Best Director at the Madras Independent Film Festival
These achievements underscore the film’s significant impact and reflect the dedication of everyone involved in its creation.
Indeed, this long list of recognitions speaks volumes about the quality and value of the pilot film. A director who brings his passion and love for the art to global stages is truly remarkable. Nimalan’s journey exemplifies how dedication and creativity can elevate a project beyond local boundaries, showcasing the rich storytelling traditions of the Malaysian Tamil community. His accomplishments not only reflect his individual talent but also serve as a source of pride for the Malaysian entertainment industry and the Indian community as a whole.
Our film has received praise for its screenplay, visuals, and performances, resonating with both audiences and critics alike. However, ‘Vizhi Neerum Veenaaga’ is more than just a cinematic experience; it is a revolutionary piece of art that amplifies unheard voices within our community, addressing topics that are often overlooked. The film challenges societal norms, ignites important conversations, and opens viewers’ eyes to new perspectives. By tackling these significant issues, it encourages audiences to reflect and engage with the complexities of the human experience, making it a vital contribution to contemporary cinema.
Nimalan is now preparing to expand this pilot into a full-length feature film. To create a high-quality cinematic experience, several elements are crucial: a compelling script, a strong story, and a dedicated team. However, sufficient funding is equally important in bringing this vision to life.
To achieve this goal, Nimalan and his talented team are actively seeking committed investors who share their passion and vision for the project. Their aim is to transform the pilot into a fully realized feature film that can reach a broader audience. By collaborating with like-minded funders, they hope to amplify the film’s impactful story, ensuring it continues to challenge societal norms and inspire viewers. This collective effort will not only elevate the film’s production quality but also enhance its potential to create meaningful conversations and foster understanding within and beyond the community.
When asked about the challenges he faced in establishing himself in the industry and directing a film, Nimalan remarked that making a name for oneself in this competitive field is undeniably difficult, especially when starting from scratch and building everything independently. He emphasized that his team has been an immense source of support throughout this journey. Their collaboration and dedication have been instrumental in overcoming obstacles and achieving their shared vision for the film.
“The greatest asset I have found is the support of my team. Together, we have navigated numerous challenges from day one, and our shared passion for the art has been crucial in sustaining our efforts. Personally, I have faced significant hurdles, including humiliation and financial difficulties. My aspiration is to create a supportive and encouraging environment for emerging filmmakers. By uniting and supporting one another, we can elevate our country’s presence on the international stage.”
Nimalan’s aspiration to create a supportive and encouraging future for emerging filmmakers is truly inspiring. It reflects his vision for unity within the industry, which has the potential to foster significant growth and development. By nurturing collaboration and support, he aims to strengthen the filmmaking community and help it reach even greater heights.
His passion for cinema and the art of filmmaking drives him to pursue a career in the film industry, despite the many struggles he faces. Even in the face of challenges, he firmly believes that the efforts of both himself and his team will ultimately be rewarded.
“My dream is to see our films on the big screen and to witness the impact our scripts can have on people’s lives. This pursuit is not just for myself but also for the dedicated team and supporters who have stood by me from the very beginning. We are all committed to achieving this goal together.”
Nimalan’s goal is to create films that make a meaningful impact on the community and resonate on an international scale. He aims to produce work that not only elevates his country’s presence on the global stage but also fosters collective growth and pride. ‘Vizhi Neerum Veenaaga’ is a testament to this vision. By striving for excellence and promoting collaboration, he hopes to contribute to the success and recognition of the local film industry.
He stated that Malaysian Tamil cinema is indeed experiencing a resurgence, with audiences increasingly flocking to theaters. To elevate this further, it is crucial for everyone to focus on producing high-quality content that excels in every aspect, from storytelling to production values.
Nimalan also emphasized that fostering a sense of unity and collaboration within the industry is essential. By embracing a collective mindset and working together, the Malaysian Tamil entertainment industry can achieve greater success and drive the growth of its films. With a vision for healthy relationships among everyone in the industry, supporting each other will lead to collective growth and advancement.
When asked about the struggles aspiring filmmakers from less wealthy and influential backgrounds face in trying to secure opportunities and prove themselves in the entertainment industry, Nimalan emphasized that a deep passion for filmmaking is essential, along with a commitment to mastering the craft. He cautioned against focusing on early fame as a primary goal, highlighting that perseverance is crucial. It’s important for individuals to believe in themselves and fully dedicate themselves to the journey. With numerous avenues available today for entering the film industry, aspiring filmmakers should continuously seek knowledge and stay genuinely connected to the art form. Embracing the process and remaining dedicated to learning and growing are key to achieving long-term success.
This demonstrates Nimalan’s sincerity and dedication to his passion for filmmaking and the art itself. His collective vision for growth within the industry and his desire to elevate it truly set him apart.
In an interview, Nimalan stated, “A film should leave an impact on the audience when they leave the theater.” When asked why he believes films should create changes in society, he shared his personal perspective:
“Certain films have profoundly influenced me and inspired my journey into filmmaking. Art possesses a unique power to impact society, and I believe we, as filmmakers, have the opportunity to contribute positively to our communities through our work. While the entertainment industry is diverse and encompasses various genres, I am passionate about creating films that not only entertain but also address meaningful societal issues. Each filmmaker brings their own perspective and genre, but I believe that integrating social impact into my stories can help make a difference in the world.”
Indeed, many movies have made a lasting impact on people’s lives. Numerous individuals have stated that certain films have changed their perspectives or provided them with hope. This is often a result of the art created by directors who share a vision similar to Nimalan’s. Art serves as a powerful tool for filmmakers to convey essential values and messages to society, ultimately fostering impact and driving positive change for a better future.
Nimalan prioritizes artistic values in film over commercial considerations because he believes that movies should transcend mere entertainment and provide a deeper, more meaningful experience. His aim is for films to possess multiple layers, much like a book or a painting, inviting audiences to explore and engage with them on a profound level. He noted that films with strong artistic values serve as timeless references and sources of inspiration, enduring well beyond their initial release and enriching viewers’ experiences over time.
Currently, Nimalan is involved in several exciting projects. He recently directed a music video titled “Pudhidai,” in collaboration with TS Mathan’s visuals, which is part of Sharvien Thangaraju’s Extended Play. Additionally, he is in the process of writing feature film scripts and planning various music video projects.
Nimalan has already established himself as a director with a championing vision aimed at creating a positive impact on society through his films. His artistry and talent will undoubtedly resonate and attract attention in the future. The script for “Vizhi Neerum Veenaaga,” crafted with passion and dedication, delivers valuable messages that deserve to be showcased on the big screen. Nimalan’s commitment to his art is truly remarkable. With the support of funders or producers, this project could take flight, potentially making history in Malaysian Tamil cinema. Moreover, it will serve as a beacon of hope and inspiration for aspiring filmmakers, demonstrating that hard work and deserving talent can be recognized and supported within the industry.
Nimalan Munusamy embodies the spirit of a new generation of filmmakers who seek to challenge the status quo and make a difference through their art. His commitment to storytelling, collaboration, and social impact positions him as a significant figure in the Malaysian entertainment landscape. As he pushes forward with his ambitious projects, there’s no doubt that Nimalan’s influence will continue to grow, inspiring both current and future filmmakers to pursue their passions and craft compelling narratives that reflect the complexities of human experience. The future looks bright for Nimalan Munusamy, and his journey is just beginning.
All the information and images are provided by Nimalan.
This is a Varnam Exclusive Feature! Reproduction requires a credit to Varnam Malaysia.
Follow us on Instagram, Facebook or Telegram for more updates and breaking news.
