Tamil Film The Verdict Brings American Courtroom Drama to Kollywood, Says Director Krishnan Shankar

Tamil-language films have been receiving a great response in the United States, with movies like ‘Good Faith Ugly’ and the latest, ‘Tourist Family’, gaining popularity, says debut director Krishnan Shankar. His film, ‘The Verdict’, stars Varalaxmi, Suhasini, and Sruthi Hariharan and is entirely shot in the U.S., particularly in Texas, over 24 days. Interestingly, the film features both Kollywood and Hollywood actors.

Krishnan Shankar, originally from Chennai and now based in America, notes that acting always fascinated him due to his parents’ involvement in theatre. He previously appeared in a lead role in the TV adaptation of writer Saavi’s novel “Marriage in Washington”.

‘The Verdict’ focuses on the American legal system, especially how courtrooms operate with a jury – a new concept for Tamil cinema. The film’s narrative, set entirely in American courtrooms, led Shankar to choose English for the script.

The director mentions that obtaining filming permissions in the U.S. is a smooth process. As long as the script and location are clearly explained, the authorities even assign police for security during shooting.

Shankar feels happy to see Tamil families in the U.S. coming to theatres to enjoy Tamil films together. He was also pleased with the film’s audio launch in Chennai, where prominent figures like Yugi Sethu and Parthiban attended and extended their support.