OM: Rajkumar Periasamy talks about Dhanush, Mammootty and the film’s story

Director Rajkumar Periasamy has shared insights into OM, describing the upcoming film as an emotional drama rooted in true crime and friendship. In a recent interaction, the filmmaker discussed the story’s darker setting, the decision to postpone its release and his experience working with Dhanush, Mammootty, Sai Pallavi and Sreeleela.

Speaking about OM, Rajkumar Periasamy said the film explores friendship through an emotional narrative set against a true-crime backdrop. Although the story draws inspiration from certain real-life incidents, it unfolds in a fictional world. The director also described its setting as grey and gritty, adding that the film is designed to connect with audiences beyond a particular region. He further revealed that the actors have taken on roles that move them beyond their usual comfort zones.

Rajkumar also explained why OM moved its release from October to November. According to the director, Dhanush suggested the change in August out of respect for Rajinikanth, whose film was scheduled to arrive around the same period. The team had already committed to a release date with its OTT platform. However, Dhanush was keen on postponing the film, provided the platform agreed to the revised schedule. Rajkumar added that release planning is crucial in a crowded theatrical calendar, as every film needs sufficient space to reach its audience.

The filmmaker also recalled how his collaboration with Dhanush began. During the production of Amaran, Rajkumar had an opportunity to meet the actor, who was looking to assemble a team for his next production. Dhanush asked whether the director had a story to pitch, prompting Rajkumar to present an idea he had been developing since his earlier film Rangoon. Dhanush responded positively to the concept and the script before coming on board as producer. Rajkumar said the actor gave him considerable creative freedom, allowing him to select the cast and shoot at real locations.

Mammootty’s association with OM also came about through the director’s efforts. Rajkumar revealed that he contacted the veteran actor around March last year and sent him a synopsis. Mammootty responded within 15 to 20 minutes, expressing interest in the material and asking to hear the complete narration when possible. However, the director did not hear from him for the next four or five months, as the actor had taken a break from acting. The process resumed when Mammootty’s manager invited Rajkumar for a narration, after which the actor responded positively to the project.

The director also spoke about working with Sai Pallavi and Sreeleela, who play two female characters in the film. He approached Sai Pallavi for a specific role, which she also liked after hearing about it. Rajkumar described working with her as comfortable and praised her ability to make demanding performances appear effortless. He also expressed confidence in Sreeleela’s natural acting ability, adding that audiences would get to see this side of her in OM.

With its true-crime foundation, emotional focus and ensemble cast, OM marks an interesting project for Rajkumar Periasamy. His comments offer a glimpse into the film’s creative direction, the circumstances behind its revised release plan and the collaborations that brought the project together.

OM – Chapter 1: Udhiram – The Blood Wood is slated to hit the screens worldwide on November 20th.