Director Ram, actor Shiva team up for ‘Paranthu Po’; Disney+ Hotstar’s film to compete at Rotterdam International Film Festival

Posters announcing ‘Paranthu Po’ being selected to compete at Rotterdam International Film Festival
| Photo Credit: Special Arrangement

Director Ram and Tamil actor Shiva have teamed up for a new film titled Paranthu Po, which has been selected to compete at the prestigious International Film Festival of Rotterdam

The news was announced by streaming platform Disney+ Hotstar, which is presenting the film.

Billed as a light-hearted, buoyant musical comedy, the film tells the story of an obstinate schoolboy and his loving but cash-strapped dad, both of whom undertake a road trip away from the anxieties of the city. Grace Antony, Anjali, Mithul Ryan, Aju Varghese and Vijay Yesudas star in the lead along with Shiva.

In a statement, director Ram said, “After Peranbu (Resurrection) and Yezhu Kadal Yezhu Malai (Seven Seas Seven Hills), I’m thrilled to have this film premiere at the International Film Festival Rotterdam (IFFR). When Seven Seas Seven Hills premiered at IFFR 2024, Mithul Ryan asked if Paranthu Po (Fly Away) would also be screened there and if he could come to Rotterdam. I am delighted that a year later, his wish has come true. Paranthu Po (Fly Away) will have its world premiere at IFFR 2025’s Limelight section.”

The director added that he will be attending the premiere of the film with Shiva on February 4, at 8PM, at de Doelen Jurriaanse Zaal.

Talking about collaborating with Shiva, Ram said, “Shiva and I began our careers in 2007 — he with Chennai 28 and I with Katrathu Tamil. At that time, he was working at Radio Mirchi and interviewed me. We’ve been friends since then and have always wanted to collaborate. Finally, it happened with Paranthu Po in 2024.”

“This film marks my first venture into feel-good comedy, featuring a talented ensemble cast. Grace Antony, known for her work in Malayalam cinema, was my perfect choice for the role given her natural flair for comedy. As always, Anjali has been incredibly supportive. Aju Varghese and Vijay Yesudas have been instrumental during both shooting and dubbing, making the process smooth. I’m also excited to introduce Master Mithul Ryan, a gifted young actor whose natural performance will surely surprise audiences. Collaborating with Hotstar has been a wonderful experience — they trusted my vision and allowed me to stay true to my original script. The entire team made it a peaceful and pleasant journey,” added Ram.

Meanwhile, Shiva said, “It was a fantastic, new and great experience working with Ram sir. I always say Ram sir is one of a kind. He is an asset. Thank you, Disney+ Hotstar and Pradeep sir for this wonderful opportunity. When I signed this film, a lot of people asked me how this combination was going to work. When Ram sir approached me, I asked him the same question.”

“The story is fantastic. It is a nice and feel-good film. It will definitely be a film that everybody can watch and enjoy. Once again, I would like to express my special thanks to Ram sir regarding this,” he added.

Paranthu Po has a background score composed by Yuvan Shankar Raja and music composed by Santhosh Dhayanithi. NK Ekhambram and Mathi VS have served as the cinematographer and editor, respectively. Produced by Seven Seas and Seven Hills productions, Paranthu Po will release on Disney+ Hotstar soon.

Meanwhile, Ram is currently awaiting the release of Yezhu Kadal Yezhu Malai.Headlined by Nivin Pauly, Soori and Anjali, the film premiered at the Rotterdam Film Festival in February 2024. The movie is eyeing a March 2025 release. Yuvan has composed the music while Ekambaram has cranked the camera. The movie is produced by Suresh Kamatchi of V House Productions.