Exclusive! Mainak Bhaumik to Bengali graphic novel on screen? Here is what we know…

Mainak Bhaumik is set to direct a brand-new film based on a Bengali graphic novel

Mainak Bhaumik (right) the cover of a Rappa Roy book

Mainak Bhaumik, who is known for his hit films like Bibaho Diaries and Generation Ami, is set to direct a film based on a graphic novel by Sujog Bandyopadhyay. Sujog is known for his cartoon character Rappa Roy -- a journalist who gets dragged into adventures. If sources are to be believed, Mainak will bring Rappa Roy on the big screen.

The casting is yet to be finalised. The sources said that the script is being developed by Mainak and his friends from Blotting Paper. If all goes well, the film may go on the floors in June. OTTplay contacted the writer, who confirmed that the production house, Friends Communications, acquired the rights to two Rappa Rao stories – Fullstop Dot Com and Storyline. “They bought the rights but I did not know who would direct the film. I wanted to direct a Rappa Roy film. However, I got busy. I am happy that Rappa will hit the big screen soon,” said Sujog.

Does he have any preference for actors for his character? “I thought Ambarish Bhattacharya would fit well for Rappa’s friend Tony and Ritwick will look good as Rappa. But this is my wishlist and has no connection with the actual makers,” said Sujog.

While the rights are bought, which of the two stories might go first is not yet confirmed. According to sources, it might be the Fullstop Dot Com that gets picturised first.

Rappa Roy is a journalist and an accidental investigator who gets into trouble with his photographer friend Tony. Rappa’s father – another recurring character – makes sarcastic judgements about these two young guys. Rappa Roy was first published in a magazine and later turned into a book. Sujog Bandyopadhyay wrote a number of Rappa Roy stories that became popular not only among children but also among young adults.

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