A tale of survival and resilience is set to unfold – The Goat Life. Directed, written, and co-produced by the visionary Blessy, this upcoming film is not just a tale; it’s an international co-production that transcends borders, bringing together the cinematic brilliance of India and the United States.
Titled Aadujeevitham in Malayalam, which translates to Goat Life, the movie is an adaptation of the 2008 Malayalam novel by Benyamin. The narrative follows the journey of Prithviraj Sukumaran as Najeeb, a Malayali immigrant laborer who becomes entangled in the web of slavery as a goatherd on a remote farm in Saudi Arabia.
The film’s journey from conception to realization has been nothing short of an odyssey. Blessed with a stellar cast including Jimmy Jean-Louis, Amala Paul, Rik Aby, and Talib al Balushi, the characters come to life against the backdrop of an emotionally charged storyline.
Blessy’s vision for Aadujeevitham dates back to 2008, when he first read Benyamin’s novel. However, the journey to bring this tale to the silver screen faced hurdles, with the project in development limbo until 2015. It was then that producer K. G. Abraham stepped in, giving wings to Blessy’s cinematic dream.
The filming itself was an adventure, spanning deserts in Jordan and Algeria, with some scenes capturing the essence of Kerala, India. The crew, including the dedicated Prithviraj Sukumaran, faced unprecedented challenges during the shoot, notably a 70-day stint in the Jordanian desert due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The resilience of the team, coupled with Blessy’s unwavering commitment, ensured the completion of this cinematic endeavor.
Adding a symphony to this visual spectacle is the legendary A. R. Rahman, returning to Malayalam cinema after decades. His soul-stirring compositions promise to elevate emotions, complementing the visuals in this 3D cinematic experience.
As the film’s post-production unfolds, the anticipation builds. Aadujeevitham is set to grace the global theaters on 10 April 2024. Get ready to embark on a cinematic journey that transcends language barriers, delivering a poignant tale that resonates across borders and cultures.