Pandiraaj: A challenge sparked 'Parimala & Co' with Jayaram, Urvasi
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
Director Pandiraaj has revealed that his upcoming Tamil film 'Parimala & Co', starring Jayaram and Urvasi in the lead roles, was born out of a dare — one he accepted during the COVID-19 lockdown and turned into a full-fledged dark comedy thriller. The film marks Pandiraaj's 12th directorial venture and is among the more eagerly anticipated Tamil releases of the season.
How the Story Was Born
Pandiraaj explained that the idea germinated when his assistant director Ashwin — now the director of the superhit film 'Couple Friendly' — recommended a web series on an OTT platform. 'I watched it and told him that I could write stories like the one he had suggested in a week's time,' Pandiraaj said. Ashwin's response was simply, 'Do it.' Pandiraaj accepted the challenge and delivered the script.
The story evolved gradually as the team layered in more situations and refined the narrative. 'We thought how it would be if we made this into a dark comedy,' Pandiraaj noted, describing the creative pivot that gave the film its distinctive tone.
From Shelf to Screen
After completing the script, Pandiraaj set it aside. It was director Jagan and assistant Divya who later read it and urged him to take it to the big screen. 'The writing in this was fantastic,' they reportedly told him, pushing for it to be made as a film rather than shelved further.
Plot and Setting
According to sources close to the production, 'Parimala & Co' centres on a family — exploring the distinct personalities and quirks of each member alongside the complications they face. The narrative reportedly begins in Chennai before shifting to Coimbatore and Palacode as the story progresses, giving the film a multi-location texture unusual for a family-based comedy thriller.
Cast and Production
Beyond leads Jayaram and Urvasi, the film features Santhosh Sobhan and Sanchana Krishnamoorthy in significant roles, with Sandy and Ananthika Sanalkumar also part of the ensemble. Comedian Yogi Babu reportedly has a lengthy role running through the film, while director Mysskin appears as a police officer. Comedians Singam Puli and Baks are said to feature in important supporting parts.
The film is jointly produced by Lyca Productions, Tamilkumaran Productions, and Pandiraaj's own banner Pasanga Productions. With its genre-blending premise and an ensemble cast that spans comedy veterans and character actors, 'Parimala & Co' is shaping up as one of the more distinctive Tamil films in the pipeline.