Director Jithu Madhavan has revealed that his upcoming Tamil film Scene, starring Suriya, was initially conceived as a Malayalam project with Fahadh Faasil and Nazriya Nazim in the lead roles. The filmmaker had discussed the story with Fahadh, who liked the idea, and preliminary discussions were underway before the project took a different direction.


Transition from Fahadh to Suriya


In an interview with Galatta Plus, Jithu Madhavan explained how the film evolved from his original plan into a Tamil project headlined by Suriya. The director said he and Fahadh frequently discuss film ideas and that the actor had responded positively when he narrated the story of "Scene".


“I was planning to make the movie with Fahadh Faasil and Nazriya, and the first discussions were happening. Fafa also liked the story,” the filmmaker revealed.


Also read: Scene: Suriya calls his Deepavali release a fresh family entertainer; audiences love keeps him going


However, things changed after Suriya expressed interest in working with Jithu Madhavan. The director subsequently informed Fahadh that he wanted to develop the story for the Tamil superstar before narrating it to the actor.


“I later told Fahadh that I was writing this one for Suriya sir instead and that we should see how it works. Then, I went and narrated the story to Suriya sir. I only had this story for him, and he liked it,” Jithu Madhavan said.

Interestingly, the director clarified that "Scene" does not have the Malayalam roots found in his earlier films. Known for his work in "Romancham" and "Aavesham", Jithu Madhavan is now making his Tamil directorial debut with the Suriya-starrer.


Why Jithu Madhavan cast Naslen as the antagonist


The filmmaker also discussed his decision to cast Naslen Gafoor as the antagonist. He wanted someone who could appear innocent while carrying out disturbing actions, creating an unsettling contrast for the audience. Naslen eventually emerged as the right choice for the character.


Scene also features Nazriya Nazim, Anandraj, Lal and Raj Priyan in key roles. The film brings Suriya and Nazriya together on screen, while marking Jithu Madhavan's first directorial collaboration with the Tamil star.


Also read: Scene: Naslen introduced as Eeswaran, a chilling antagonist in Suriya's Deepavali release



Scene set for Diwali release


With its unusual combination of Suriya's star power and Jithu Madhavan's distinctive storytelling, Scene has emerged as one of the notable Tamil releases scheduled for this festive season. The film is set to arrive in theatres on November 6, 2026, coinciding with Diwali.


The revelation about its original casting plan adds another interesting dimension to the film's journey, particularly given that Fahadh Faasil and Nazriya Nazim could have reunited on screen in a project that ultimately became Suriya's Tamil entertainer.