Akilesh Kathamuthu is renowned as the visionary Cinematographer behind the success of the critically acclaimed Tamil historical film, Yaathisai, celebrated for its visually stunning aesthetics that garnered widespread acclaim.
With a distinguished postgraduate degree in Media Sciences from Anna University, Chennai, Akilesh has accumulated substantial field experience by contributing as an assistant and associate cinematographer in more than fourteen feature films, showcasing his expertise and dedication within the cinematic realm.
His micro short film stands as a testament to his artistic excellence, having earned more than ten international awards, including recognition from esteemed filmmaker Majid Majidi of Iran.
Beyond his cinematic achievements, Akilesh is driven by a passion for knowledge sharing. In his role as a facilitator, he conducts frequent workshops on Cinematography and serves as a guest faculty at prestigious institutions such as Anna University, Chennai, SRM University, Chennai, and Vellore Institute of Technology, Vellore.
His commitment extends beyond the film industry as he shares invaluable insights, nurturing the development of the next generation of media professionals.
Education
M.Sc. Electronic Media
Mentors
- Mahesh Muthuswami, Cinematographer | Film and Television Institute of India | Pune | India
- Preetha Jayaraman ISC, Cinematographer | Bond University | Gold Coast, Queensland | Australia
- Roberto Zazzara, Cinematographer, Writer, Director | Italian School of Cinema | Italy
Awards & Recognitions
- BEST SHORT FICTION – 10th 100 Seconds International Film Festival, Tehran, Iran
- HONORABLE MENTION-10th Toronto Urban Film Festival, Toronto | Canada | Awarded by Film Commissioner of Toronto, Zaib Sheik
- SECOND PRIZE – IIDFF 2016 5th India International Deaf Film Festival, Banglore | India
- OFFICIAL SELECTION – Where is the Horse Film Festival, Trepotzlan | Mexico
- OFFICIAL SELECTION – “60 seconds to fame” AbilityFest 2015, National Level Short Film Competition | India
- OFFICIAL SELECTION – 2nd All Lights India International Film Festival (ALIIFF), 2016.
- SEMI FINALIST – In/Out Video & Film Festival: Ethics Attention & Intention, Moore College of Art & Design | Philadelphia
- OFFICIAL SELECTION – Children’s International Short Film Festival, CMS Lucknow 2017
- FILM THAT ALTERS PERSPECTIVE – 15th Seize the film, Novi Sad | Serbia
- OFFICIAL SELECTION – Geo Film Festival 2017, Italy
Research Experience
- A Dissertation on “Photo Elucidation Study on the difference in perception among people of diverse backgrounds.”
Assistant & Associate Cinematographer
- Idhu Vedhalam Sollum Kadhai
- Thirunaal
- Surapuli
- Uppu Karuvadu
- Oru Kuppai Kadhai
- Naalu Polisum Nalla Irundha Oorum
- Un Samyal Arayil
- Idharkuthana Asaipattai Balakumara
- Kuttipuli
- Jabardhasth – Telugu
- Mounaguru
- Vamsam
- Abhiyum Nanum
Academic Experience
- Member, Syllabus Sub-Committee, Department of Media Sciences, Anna University, Chennai
- Guest Lecture at Vellore Institute of Technology.
- Guest Lecture at Dept. of Media Sciences, Anna University, Chennai
Professional Development
- Founder and CEO, Mediagram, a Video & Audio Production House
Affiliations & Memberships
Southern India Cinematographer’s Association