Rahman's next film is a supernatural thriller rooted in 1980s Tamil Nadu folklore
Synopsis
Actor Rahman's upcoming film is no ordinary period thriller — it is reportedly rooted in a real supernatural incident from southern Tamil Nadu in the mid-1980s. Directed by Bharathi Balakumaran of 'Vizha' fame and produced by Komala Hari Pictures, the project casts Rahman as a Zamindar battling paranormal forces, with shoot commencing 22 May. It is shaping up as one of Tamil cinema's more ambitious folklore-driven productions.
Key Takeaways
Actor Rahman stars in a supernatural folklore mystery thriller reportedly based on a real incident from southern Tamil Nadu in the mid-1980s .
The film is directed by Bharathi Balakumaran , known for the rural drama 'Vizha' .
Shooting is scheduled to commence on 22 May , with portions also planned in Chennai .
Produced by Komala and Hari Bhaskaran under Komala Hari Pictures , this is their fourth production venture .
The ensemble cast includes Vishva , Mime Gopi , Aadukalam Naren , Risha Jacobs , and Munishkanth , among others.
Cinematography by Banu Murugan ; editing by Kalaivanan of 'Amaran' fame.
Actor Rahman is set to headline a supernatural folklore mystery thriller directed by Bharathi Balakumaran, reportedly inspired by a real incident involving paranormal occurrences in the southern districts of Tamil Nadu during the mid-1980s. Shooting for the project, currently referred to as Production Number 4, is scheduled to begin on 22 May, according to sources close to the unit.
The Story and Setting
Set against the backdrop of 1980s rural Tamil Nadu, the film follows a Zamindar character who struggles to shield his family from a series of deeply unsettling supernatural events. Sources describe the plot as expansive and gripping, rooted in native mystery and folklore. According to those familiar with the project, Rahman will essay a role unlike any he has taken on previously in his career.
Director and Creative Team
Filmmaker Bharathi Balakumaran, who drew critical appreciation for his rooted rural drama 'Vizha', has written the story and screenplay and will direct the film. On the technical front, cinematography will be handled by Banu Murugan, known for 'Muthina Kathirika', while editing is by Kalaivanan of 'Amaran' fame. Art direction is by Pragatheeswaran, recognised for his work on 'Pookie' and 'Diesel', and stunt choreography by Dinesh of 'Kaasi' and 'Kara' fame.
Cast and Production
Actor Vishva plays a pivotal role in the film, alongside an ensemble cast comprising Mime Gopi, Aadukalam Naren, Risha Jacobs, Munishkanth, Anupama Kumar, Baba Bhaskar, Remya Suresh, and several others, with casting reportedly still underway. The film is being produced on a grand scale by Komala and Hari Bhaskaran under the banner of Komala Hari Pictures — the production house behind 'Gentlewoman' — making this their fourth production venture.
Shoot Schedule
Principal photography is set to begin on 22 May and will continue extensively across locations, with portions also planned to be filmed in Chennai. The project marks a significant creative shift for Rahman, placing him at the centre of a period supernatural narrative with deep folkloric roots in Tamil culture. With a technically accomplished crew and a story reportedly drawn from documented local lore, the film is shaping up as one of the more ambitious Tamil productions of the year.
Point of View
But films that anchor supernatural narratives in documented real-world incidents remain rare — and commercially potent when executed well. Bharathi Balakumaran's track record with 'Vizha' suggests he can handle rooted, textured storytelling, and pairing that sensibility with Rahman's understated intensity is an intriguing bet. What will determine whether this transcends the crowded supernatural-thriller space is the discipline to let the folklore breathe rather than lean on genre conventions. The Komala Hari Pictures banner, still building its identity after 'Gentlewoman', has a meaningful opportunity here to establish a distinct creative signature.
NationPress
5 Aug 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is actor Rahman's next film about?
Rahman's upcoming film is a supernatural folklore mystery thriller set in 1980s rural Tamil Nadu, reportedly inspired by a real incident involving paranormal events in the southern districts of the state. Rahman plays a Zamindar character trying to protect his family from supernatural occurrences.
Who is directing Rahman's new supernatural thriller?
The film is directed by Bharathi Balakumaran, who earned critical acclaim for his rooted rural drama 'Vizha'. He has also written the story and screenplay for this project.
When does shooting begin for Rahman's new film?
Principal photography is scheduled to commence on 22 May, with an extensive shoot planned across locations including Chennai.
Who is producing Rahman's supernatural thriller?
The film is produced by Komala and Hari Bhaskaran under the banner of Komala Hari Pictures, the production house behind 'Gentlewoman'. This is their fourth production venture.
Who else is in the cast of the film?
Actor Vishva plays a pivotal role, with an ensemble cast that includes Mime Gopi, Aadukalam Naren, Risha Jacobs, Munishkanth, Anupama Kumar, Baba Bhaskar, and Remya Suresh, among others. Casting is reportedly still underway.
