Kerala Crime Files 2 Has Opened Bigger Doors For Me

N CINEMA, we often see actors talking about stereotyping since this tendency to be boxed into a particular kind of role hampers their desire to be versatile.

- VIGNESH MADHU

N CINEMA, we often see actors talking about stereotyping since this tendency to be boxed into a particular kind of role hampers their desire to be versatile. Interestingly, these concerns extend to technicians as well. One such person is Hesham Abdul Wahab. The composer, who often operates in the feel-good space, is currently ecstatic about breaking the shackles with Kerala Crime Files 2 (KCF 2), an investigative thriller series. "I've always loved the thriller genre and enjoyed working on them. I've worked on films like Chuzhal, Ini Utharam, and the first season of KCF. The reception for the new season has been highly encouraging, and I consider it a validation of all my efforts. It's a massive confidence booster as I feel I don't have to prove my versatility anymore," says Hesham with glee.

As the JioHotstar series continues to garner a largely positive response, we discuss with Hesham the added scope for music in the second season, its emotional layers, and his career in general.

Excerpts

After doing a string of rom-coms and feel-good stuff, how do you enjoy this new genre shift?

I was quite tense because a lot of thriller films and web shows are being made today. I was anxious about how to make something distinct amidst this, and still create an impact on the audience. I should credit Ahammed's (Khabeer) direction and Bahul's (Ramesh) brilliant writing, which ensured an emotional connection with the audience.

Bahul, who also wrote Kishkindha Kaandam, has the practice of listening to background scores while scripting. Were you given any of those references while composing?

Yes, we had some references. Before the shoot, we also composed a couple of theme tracks to assist Ahammed while directing. But they were all reworked after I saw the footage, as the music had to be in sync with the visual language and the emotions.