The trailer of Balan: The Boy has become one of the most discussed film promos in recent times, mainly because it reveals very little and leaves viewers with several questions.
Unlike many trailers that explain most of the story, director Chidambaram keeps the mystery intact.
The 2-minute-29-second trailer places a young boy at the centre of the narrative but does not clearly reveal who he is or why the adults around him appear disturbed by his presence.
The emotional core of the trailer seems to be the relationship between a mother and her son, who are constantly on the move.
The woman gives the boy a different name at every place, suggesting a life shaped by secrecy, fear and survival.
This mystery has helped the trailer generate strong buzz and cross 15 million views, despite not depending on a major star.
The film also brings together several technicians from the blockbuster Manjummel Boys. Shyju Khalid handles cinematography, Vivek Harshan is the editor, Sushin Shyam composes the music and Ajayan Chalissery is in charge of production design.
The trailer’s editing and background score play a major role in building tension. Scenes are cut before they reveal too much, while the music adds a sense of unease and suspense.
Directed by Chidambaram and written by Jithu Madhavan, Balan: The Boy is produced by KVN Productions and Thespian Films. Venkat K Narayana and Shailaja Desai Fenn are backing the project.
The film has already gained international attention following its screening at the Cannes Film Festival.
Certified U/A 16+, Balan: The Boy will release across India on June 19 in Malayalam, Telugu, Tamil, Kannada and Hindi.
A grand premiere is planned in Kerala on June 18, while Annapurna Studios will release the film in the Telugu states on June 19.