CHENNAI: An ambitious Indo-American production, An Order from the Sky (Aagasathin Utharvu in Tamil) is a rare cinematic experiment that redefines the boundaries of minimalist filmmaking.
Recently recognised by both the International Book of Records and the India Book of Records, the world’s first 76-minute feature was created with a single character, filmed in a single shot, with sync sound and no concealed cuts.
The film marked a significant public milestone with its premiere at the 2025 Jagran Film Festival, where it received the Best Screenplay Award, underscoring the project’s narrative depth alongside its technical audacity.
Directed by Karthik Radhakrishnan, the film is produced by US-based filmmaker Maheshwarapandiyan Saravanan and presented by Vilangu fame Prasanth Pandiyaraj.
Adapted from an acclaimed short story by Imayam, the narrative unfolds entirely within a rural shrine, forming an intense chamber drama. The story centres on a destitute petty thief who seeks divine authorisation from his clan deity to commit theft as a means of survival. His ritualistic pleas, ranging from reverent offerings and desperate prayers to impatience, anger, and profanity, evolve into a deeply personal confrontation with faith, belief, and moral contradiction as he waits for a sign that may never arrive.
Theatre actor Baskar headlined the film, highlighting the method-acting approach. Reflecting on the process, Maheshwarapandiyan Saravanan said, “We never set out to make a world record. The script itself demanded a single-shot, single-character structure, and we stayed honest to that necessity. Only later did we realise it might be the first of its kind. The journey was filled with unexpected obstacles and moments that felt almost miraculous.”
Vignesh Malaichami handled the camera. Balamurali Balu composes the music. Post-production was completed through a collaboration with Hollywood-based technicians. The film is set to release soon.