Full house for fantasy British Tamil film Yaaley

Yaaley, meaning lullaby, is a British Tamil short film by London based independent film-maker Appu Satha, supported by his friends & co-producers Theepika (Trishnika) and Abina-Abi, was released at a house full screening in Wandsworth Cineworld last July.

In 2014, Appu launched StepOn, a platform for independent artists, which spurred on his interests as a creative and filmmaker. He launched “Make A Wizh Productions” in 2023 with his team, their first project is Yaaley, a Tamil language film.

The 30 minute heartwarming fantasy follows Inba, the female lead, scarred by the tragic death of her father, as she struggles to find happiness and push aside her pain. When her mysterious friend, Seyal, resurfaces, Inba is forced to confront her past and rediscover her inner child. Together they embark on a transformative journey through a mystical realm, exploring the healing power of love and redemption.

Whilst holding down a full time job as an IT technician, Appu and his team started shooting the film last March, completing the shoot on time in June. time, and all within a budget of only £3,500.

Confident that he would complete the project, even before the filming was finished, Appu booked Cineworld Wandsworth, for sentimental reasons, as he had worked there during his student years, cleaning in between screenings.

Multi-talented and strapped for cash for the project, Appu was pulled in all directions – undertaking multiple tasks in addition to directing, to include writing, film editing, production designing and acting. With no prior acting background, Appu enrolled into acting classes whilst shooting the film.

The main female role went to Niwani, a student and popular content creator on social media. With no prior acting experience, Niwani’s passion, determination to act, and talent shone through. For 19 days, Niwani would rise at 1am, travel to South London for hair & makeup at 3am, then begin shooting at 6am.

Future screenings have been scheduled for London (Cineworld 02) on Saturday 14th September, and Dortmund (Germany) on Saturday 21st September.

The project wouldn’t have been possible without the following people;

– Agalya, make up artist

– Jishanthan, production designer

– Sathananthavel (Oldest crew member 68 years old ) did the production design and sets build

– Joelsiah A Jones (from US, non Tamil ) music director

– Abina Abi (first time producer)

– Theepika (producer)

– Thavendran (Actor and DOP)

– Rithik (First time DOP) never had any experience in videography

– Akara (youngest cast member  7 years old + a classical dancer)

Kasthuri & Lalitha (Costumes and Jewellery )

– Thamizh (DOP)