Filmmaker Ananth Mahadevan and veteran actor Nana Patekar are coming together for ' The Confession ', a social thriller that is now gearing up for a December theatrical release. The film is based on the 1966 Madatharuvi case in Kerala, which shook the nation when Father Benedict Onamkulam was accused of murdering Mariyakutty, a widow.
As reported by Mid Day, Mahadevan says the story fascinated him for years. “It was a sensational case that happened in Kerala. Father Benedict became the first priest in India to be condemned to death. The catch was that the priest had a confession by Mariyakutty, but bound by his faith, he would not reveal it in the court. What happens after [his initial conviction] forms the film’s crux,” he explained.
About 'The Confession'
The director shot 'The Confession' in Goa in late 2022, capturing its churches, beaches, and heritage homes to create the film’s visual scale. Initially, the movie was to be Nana Patekar’s first theatrical release after the #MeToo allegations in 2018, but its release was delayed. Mahadevan says the wait was deliberate. “After completing The Confession, I focused on The Storyteller’s release, made Phule and Past Tense, and got busy with their post-production. I did not want to rush with this film, but treat it sensitively as it required a delicate balance. We want a theatrical release because I shot this film on a large scale,” he shared.
A teaser that promises an intriguing drama
Earlier this week, the makers dropped a teaser that has already drawn attention. The clip features an edited image of Nana Patekar inside a courtroom, with his voiceover running over it. The actor’s words set the tone: “I have already seen the face of truth, even I have heard its voice. Yes, I know the truth, but can’t accept it. I am willing to give up my life for it.” The dialogue has sparked curiosity about how the film will unfold and how Patekar will be portrayed in this layered role.
With its December release locked in, 'The Confession' is surely one of the most-awaited films.