With screenwriting, you get to be part of creative process from the outset, says Santhy Balachandran

Santhy Balachandran, who made her debut with Tharangam in 2017, has acted in several films in different genres, taking on many challenging roles. This year, in particular, has been exciting for her so far, with her film Ennennum winning the International Critics Award at Neuchâtel International Fantastic Film Festival (NIFFF) in Switzerland and the Kerala State Special Jury Award for Female Director (for Shalini Ushadevi, director of Ennennum).The actress spoke to us about working on these projects, her Tamil film debut after the web series Sweet Kaaram Coffee, and screenwriting for an upcoming film. Excerpts:
‘A Malayalam-Tamil bilingual in the pipeline’
My next project is a Malayalam-Tamil bilingual starring Arya and a host of well-known stars from across the South Indian industries. The film is directed by Jiyen Krishnakumar and has been scripted by Murali Gopy. I’m excited to play one of the most intense characters I’ve been offered so far.
‘Ennennum excited me on a creative and intellectual level’
Ennennum is a project that excited me on a creative and intellectual level. A relationship drama set in a dystopian alternate present, the film explores how relationships — both personal and social — would be affected if we could become immortal via technology. I personally loved Shalini’s creative process. The recent international and state awards are a validation of her courage to craft a narrative that defies convention.
‘Gulmohar was one of the happiest sets I have worked in’
Not only was it a privilege to work alongside some of the legends of Indian cinema, it was also one of the happiest sets I have worked in. Rahul (director Rahul Chittella) made an effort to create an environment where the cast and crew could develop a comfortable equation. Both Gulmohar and Ennennum gave me characters that are very close to my heart, and it was a thrill to break the news of the National Award and State Award to Rahul and Shalini.
‘Working with Lakshmi ma’am and Madhoo ma’am was a gift’
Sweet Kaaram Coffee, my Tamil web series, was a special experience thanks to my wonderful co-actors. Lakshmi ma’am and Madhoo ma’am are remarkable women, and getting to share screen space with them was a gift. It was a pleasure conversing with them on everything, from acting to spirituality. Further speaking about OTT, the actress said, "The digital space has expanded the exposure and reach of actors working in regional industries. It has facilitated a cross-pollination of talent, with casting reflecting the diversity of our social fabric."
‘Will soon get my First screenplay credit’
I will also soon get my first official screenplay credit for a movie starring Kalyani Priyadarshan and Naslen. I’ve written the additional screenplay for the project helmed by writer-director Dominic Arun. Filmmaking is a deeply collaborative medium, and with screenwriting, you get to be part of the creative process from the outset. There is something magical about watching your words transform into images and I’m excited to see where this new journey leads.