Where storytelling transcends boundaries, the unsung heroes often work
behind the scenes. One such talent is Manigandan, a film editor whose journey from the bustling streets of Trichy to the dynamic film industry of Chennai is as captivating as the films he helps create.
Born and raised in Trichy, Manigandan’s early life was shaped by his father,
who worked at a government ration shop but also pursued photography as a
passionate hobby. This dual influence not only instilled a love for visuals in
Manigandan but also introduced him to the nuances of editing. Watching his
father edit VHS videos sparked an interest that would ultimately steer his
career.
During his college days, Manigandan began experimenting with editing,
receiving enthusiastic feedback for his work on small events.
He decided to take a leap of faith and moved to Chennai in 2008 to hone his skills at the MGR Government Film Institute in Taramani. He completed a three-year course in film editing in 2011, laying the groundwork for his future in the industry. He is a gold medallist in Editing.
After graduating, Manigandan initially worked as an assistant editor on two films. His third project was particularly challenging; although he was committed as the lead editor, the film unfortunately faced a setback and was shelved after 80% of the work was completed. Such early experiences taught him resilience and the unpredictable nature of the film industry.
Manigandan’s journey took a significant turn when he interned with acclaimed
editor Antony. With a recommendation from Kevin, another respected editor, Manigandan got a chance to work on notable projects like Pagan and
Puththagam. His first taste of spot editing came with the popular song “Love
Panlama Venama” from Poda Podi, a moment that solidified his passion for
storytelling through editing.
While editing became his forte, Manigandan harboured a keen interest in direction as well.
He believes that editing is the heartbeat of a film, capable of shaping the narrative and creating unexpected twists that keep audiences on the edge of their seats. His journey also included invaluable experiences, such as working closely with cinematographer Saravanan, which enriched his understanding of visual storytelling. Interestingly, Manigandan’s foray into acting occurred through a serendipitous connection. His childhood friend, Franklin Jacob, was an assistant director for the film Attakathi, and through this link, Manigandan made his acting debut as
“Routu Thala”in Attakathi movie. This diverse involvement in various aspects of film making only deepened his appreciation for the craft.
In 2017, Manigandan’s career took an exciting turn when he met Peter Hein, a national award-winning stunt director. When PetetHein was involved in the Vietnamese release of the film Spyder (Telugu Super Star Mahesh Babu Starrer), Manigandan played a crucial role in its editing. Subsequently, he was invited to edit a Vietnamese film Named “Sam Hoi” an International Film, a challenging task that required him to navigate language barriers and cultural
nuances. This journey lasted four years, culminating in a completed project in
2021—a testament to his dedication and adaptability.
Back in Tamil cinema, he collaborated again with Franklin Jacob on the film
Writer, a project that showcased Manigandan’s talent as an editor and
solidified their creative partnership. He is currently immersed in pre-production for another three films while simultaneously working on his own directorial ideas.
Manigandan’s perspective on editing is enlightening: he believes editors have
the power to shape audience expectations, weaving in surprise elements that enhance the cinematic experience. His love for editing stems from this unique ability to influence storytelling in profound ways.
As he continues to evolve in his career, Manigandan stands as a reminder of
the creativity and determination that drives the film industry. His journey from Trichy to Chennai, from assistant editor to a sought-after talent, underscores
the belief that passion, hard work, and a little serendipity can lead to
extraordinary opportunities in the world of cinema
