#SHOWBIZ: RM200 smartphone series: How director Karthik Shaamalan inspires next-gen filmmakers

KUALA LUMPUR: Filmed entirely on a smartphone with a production budget of just RM200, filmmaker Karthik Shaamalan has produced a Tamil mini-drama series aimed at inspiring emerging creators to explore digital storytelling without relying on expensive equipment.

The nine-episode series, titled 3SM 3 Sollu Mattumtha, was produced by Karthik in collaboration with UNITAR International University.

The entire project was shot using an iPhone 15 Pro, equipped only with a RM50 wireless microphone and a RM99 ND filter set for outdoor shoots.

In an interview with Bernama, Karthik explained that instead of relying on costly gear to deliver quality, the production team focused their energy on solid scriptwriting, meticulous planning, strong teamwork, and pure creativity.

“I am not saying that you shouldn’t use great or sophisticated equipment,” Karthik clarified.

“Rather, what I am trying to convey is that you shouldn’t wait until you have all of that to pursue your dreams. This project is dedicated to those who are just starting out in the production world and are looking for a platform to begin.”

He was speaking after the launch of the project by Deputy National Unity Minister Yuneswaran Ramaraj at the UNITAR campus in Petaling Jaya.

The project also aims to encourage the Indian content creation community to preserve their cultural identity through authentic storytelling powered by digital innovation.

Streaming on the SCIFILM platform and UNITAR’s YouTube channel, the drama reflects the growth of the creator economy, where digital platforms like YouTube have become increasingly viable for episodic storytelling and content entrepreneurship.

Featuring a cast that includes Loga Varman, Dharshamini Kesavan, Thia Lakshana, Suriyan Magissan, Ruvela, Subatra, Tharane, and Ratna Gowri, with music composed by Hari Mahendran, new episodes of the series are released every Monday and Thursday at 6pm.

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المصدر: New Straits Times