William Shakespeare's 'Hamlet', one of the most performed tragedies by the master playwright, is retold in a Malayalam movie.
The story of the Prince of Denmark, a victim of destiny and misfortunes, is adapted into the film "Karmayogi", set for release next month.
The movie, directed by noted filmmaker V K Prakash, tells the story of the classic play in the backdrop of life and cultural settings of the Malabar region (northern region of the south Indian state of Kerala), known for its centuries old martial art tradition 'Kalariypayattu', hero worship and folk lore.
The film focuses on the core themes of the Shakespearean tragedy like indecision, revenge, deception, ambition and loyalty revolving round the hero Rudran, a "Kalaripayattu" (a martial art) exponent.
"Adapting for film a play like 'Hamlet' is certainly a big challenge for any filmmaker. But, that has been my greatest dream and I enjoyed every bit of the challenge," Prakash told PTI.
Shakespeare's 'Othello' and 'Antony and Cleopatra' have already been adapted into films in Malayalam under the titles 'Kaliyaattam' and 'Kannaki' respectively and they were directed by well-known filmmaker Jayaraj.
'Karmayogi' has a huge star cast comprising Bollywood actress Padmini Kolhapuri, Nithya Menon, Saiju Kurup, Thalaivasal Vijay and Ashokan depicting local versions of the original Shakespearean characters like Queen Gertrude,
Claudius, Ophelia, Polonius and Laertes.
The film explores the story through the 'Yogi' community, a section known for their martial art talents, in north Kerala.
Actor Indrajith, plays the role of Rudran, the embodiment of Prince Hamlet. Excited about the role, he says Rudran will become a milestone in his acting career.
"Getting such a major role is a dream-come-true for every actor. I am a great fan of Shakespeare and had done some of his characters in school drams. When I was offered the lead
role, it is natural to be excited," Indrajith said.
Apart from 'Kalarippayattu', it also features folk arts like 'Poorakkali' and 'Kazchapayattu', which are unique to the
Malabar region. Some fight sequences in the movie are a blend of 'Kalarippayattu' and Chinese martial arts," the actor said.