(This article is authored by Alar)
Alphonse Puthren, the director of the cult classic 'Premam', has announced his decision to quit cinema due to his Autism Spectrum Disorder. The filmmaker revealed his condition in a social media post, which he later deleted, but not before it went viral among his fans and followers.
'Premam', which released in 2015, was a romantic comedy that starred Nivin Pauly and Sai Pallavi in the lead roles. The film was a huge hit and received critical acclaim for its realistic portrayal of love and friendship. It also had a successful remake in Telugu with the same name.
Puthren's post stated that he discovered his autism on his own and did not want to be a burden to anyone. He said that he would continue to make songs, videos, short films and OTT content, but not feature films. He expressed his regret for quitting cinema, but said that he had no other option as his health was weak and unpredictable.
His announcement shocked many of his admirers, including acclaimed director Sudha Kongara, who made 'Soorarai Pottru' with Suriya. Kongara took to her Instagram account to share a poster of 'Premam' and request Puthren to continue creating in any form. She said that 'Premam' was her all-time favourite film and that it helped her cope with her low moments. She also said that the film made her fall in love again with the idea of being in love.
She wrote, “Dear @puthrenalphonse, I’m going to miss your cinema. Premam is my all time favourite and kept me alive at my lowest. I would watch it on loop. It made me, a total cynic, fall in love again with the idea of being in love. Please continue to create in any form and I will consume."
Puthren has responded to Kongara's message, writing, "Thank you for the comments ma’am ", and many fans have joined her in expressing their support and appreciation for the talented director. They hope that he will overcome his challenges and return to cinema someday.
Comments