A Maestro of Light and Vision: P.C. Sreeram – A Life in Cinema

A Maestro of Light and Vision: P.C. Sreeram – A Life in Cinema

P.C. Sreeram, a name synonymous with stunning visuals and poetic storytelling, is a legend who has redefined the art of cinematography in Indian cinema. His journey, spanning over four decades, is a testament to his dedication, passion, and unwavering pursuit of cinematic excellence.

Born in Chennai in 1956, Sreeram’s love for films blossomed early. He wasn’t a conventional student, but his fascination with photography led him to the Madras Film Institute, where he honed his skills and graduated in 1979.

His early years were marked by a constant thirst for learning and experimentation. He embraced diverse projects, from Serious story tellers to commercial films, constantly pushing boundaries and evolving his style. The 1985 film, *Meendum Oru Kaathal Kathai** marked a turning point.

His collaboration with the visionary director Mani Ratnam Mouna Raagam yielded breathtaking visuals and a critical acclaim that catapulted both of them to national recognition.

PC Sreeram’s partnership with Mani Ratnam would become a defining force in Indian cinema. Films like *Nayakan*, Agni Natchathiram, Geethanjali,Thiruda Thiruda and Alaippayuthey and Ok Kanmani showcased his ability to weave magic with light and shadow, creating visuals that were not just technically brilliant but also deeply evocative, enhancing the emotional core of the narrative.

Sreeram’s talent illuminated a diverse range of films in various languages. He brought a touch of poetry to *Cheeni Kum*, vibrancy to *Paa* and a gritty realism to  His work transcended genres and languages, leaving an indelible mark on audiences and fellow filmmakers alike.

Sreeram’s legacy extends beyond his own filmography. He has been a mentor and inspiration to countless aspiring cinematographers. His tenure as president of the Southern India Cinematographers Association (SICA) saw him initiate welfare programs, create a website, and organize workshops, transforming the association into a vibrant platform for knowledge exchange and professional development.

Many of his former assistants, have become leading cinematographers in their own right, carrying forward the torch of excellence ignited by Sreeram.

Sreeram’s commitment to cinema extends beyond cinematography. He has directed films like Kurudhipunal showcasing his narrative skills and directorial vision.

Even today, at 67, Sreeram remains an active force, demonstrate that his creative fire continues to burn bright.

At the Goa International Film Festival, Sreeram was honored as a “Legend of Indian Cinema” alongside Ramesh Sippy, a fitting recognition for his immense contribution to the art of filmmaking.

P.C. Sreeram is not just a cinematographer; he is a storyteller, a painter with light, and a magician who brings emotions to life on the silver screen. His journey is an inspiration to aspiring filmmakers and a testament to the power of dedication and passion. His legacy will continue to illuminate Indian cinema for generations to come.

* PC Sreeram’s use of  light in unconventional way and his keen eye for detail have become his trademark.

* He has received numerous awards, including  National Film Award for Best Cinematography for Nayakan

Distinguished cinematographer-cum-filmmaker Rajiv Menon credits Sreeram with introducing the concept of bringing backlight indoors, a technique that gained prominence with the film “Thevar Magan” (1992), directed by Bharathan. This innovative use of lighting added depth and dimension to indoor scenes, creating a visual language that resonated with audiences.

PC Sreeram top reflected lighting in Nayakan brought a fresh perspective into Indian Cinematography.

Filmography

1981 Vaa Indha Pakkam Tamil Debut

1982 Oru Varisu Uruvagiradhu- Tamil

1982 Nandri, Meendum Varuga- Tamil

1985 Meendum Oru Kaathal Kathai Tamil

1985 Koodum Thedi- Malayalam Debut Malayalam film

1985 Poove Poochooda Vaa -Tamil

1986 Mouna Ragam- Tamil

1986 Nee Thana Antha Kuyil- Tamil

1987 Nayakan -Tamil

1988 Agni Natchathiram Tamil

1989 Apoorva Sagodharargal Tamil

1989 Geethanjali Telugu Debut Telugu film

1990 Idhaya Thamarai -Tamil

1991 Gopura Vasalile Tamil

1992 Amaran -Tamil

1992 Thevar Magan Tamil

1992 Meera Tamil Directorial debut

1993 Thiruda Thiruda- Tamil

1994 May Madham – Tamil

1995 Subha Sankalpam Telugu

1995 Kuruthipunal – Tamil

1998 Shanti Shanti Shanti Kannada Debut Kannada film

1999 Mugam Tamil

1999 Kadhalar Dhinam Tamil

2000 Mugavaree Tamil

2000 Alaipayuthey Tamil

2001 Kushi Telugu

2004 Vaanam Vasappadum Tamil

2005 Kanda Naal Mudhal Tamil

2007 Cheeni Kum Hindi Debut Hindi film

2009 13B/ Yavarum Nalam Hindi

Tamil

2009 Paa Hindi

2012 Ishq Telugu

2015 I Tamil

2015 Shamitabh Hindi

2015 O Kadhal Kanmani Tamil

2016 Ki & Ka Hindi

2016 Remo Tamil

2018 Pad Man Hindi

2018 Naa… Nuvve Telugu

2018 Praana Malayalam

2020 Putham Pudhu Kaalai Tamil Segment Avarum Naanum – Avalum Naanum

2021 Navarasa Tamil Netflix web-series Segment Guitar Kambi Mele Nindru

2021 Rang De Telugu

2022 Thank You Telugu

Drafted by

CJ Rajkumar

Author / Cinematographer