The promotion strategy for every film is different: Manju Gopinath

Time of India

5 hours ago

Manju Gopinath reflects on her decade-long journey as the first woman publicist in Malayalam cinema, highlighting her focus on professionalism and human connection. She emphasizes the importance of tailored promotional strategies for each film, drawing on her journalism background. Gopinath cherishes moments like uniting actors amidst controversy and hopes to inspire more women to enter film PR, having worked on over 200 films and currently serving as FEFKA treasurer.
As she finishes a decade, starting as the first woman publicist in the Malayalam film industry, Manju Gopinath tells us that she looks back with satisfaction at her journey. 'It is not just about the professionalism I was able to bring to my work, but also the humane side that I have been able to tap into,' she says.
Film PR, she says, is basically about building publicity around the release of a film. 'So, it involves coordinating interviews and media promotions, among other things. The promotions have to be planned differently for each film, depending on the subject, budget and star. You have to build a strategy around how to do it and work with the film's team on how to promote it,' says Manju, who started her career as a TV journalist and was encouraged to try film PR by filmmaker Jayaraj, while she worked as an RJ.
(Picture Courtesy: Facebook)
'My background in journalism has worked in my favour, because I have contacts and know how the media works,' adds Manju, who started with Mammootty starrer 'Munnariyippu' in 2014. 'I received his support and have always been supported by producers Anto Joseph and Listin Stephen,' she says.
Soothravakyam - Official Trailer
She shares that she has had some special moments in her work, such as bringing actors Shine Tom Chacko and Vincy Aloshious to promote Soothravakyam .
'There had been a controversy over drug usage, but I said, let's see if the artistes can look beyond that and promote the film together. They very graciously did and shook hands at a press event. I was so happy that apart from being a film promotion, it was also such an emotional and humane moment,' she says.
Manju says that she is happy to be a trailblazer for women PR in the industry. 'Now, Shwetha Menon is contesting as president of the Association of Malayalam Movie Artists. And I hope, I, too, can be considered an example and more young women can come into this field,' she says. Meanwhile, Manju Gopinath has worked in over 200 plus films and is currently the treasurer in FEFKA.