Born into a family of writers, Ilanthirayan (Alan) developed an early love for poetry and storytelling, using them to explore his imagination. He spent countless hours in libraries, immersed in literature and writing his own stories. This passion grew into documenting personal experiences through essays and short stories, earning him numerous accolades, including a National Writing Award.
Alan dedicated years to studying world cinema. His work emphasises realism and character-driven narratives with emotional and cultural depth. He strives to create commercially successful films for international audiences, integrating innovative techniques and highlighting overlooked historical events. Alan is also committed to supporting charitable initiatives and serving as a positive role model for future filmmakers.
Alan leads YSA Screen Media, an Australia-based studio focused on bold, genre-defying international films. The studio crafts diverse original, emotionally resonant stories for global audiences and prides itself on developing immersive narratives with strong commercial appeal. Alan’s debut feature, the supernatural thriller AIYAI: Wrathful Soul (2020), earned multiple awards and festival selections. He is now in pre-production for ROCADA (2025/2026), a high-octane action thriller. TRENCHSCAPE 1939, THE NINE KNIGHTS, and THE FORGOTTEN 1943, spanning various genres and historical periods.
Alan says:
“I’ve come to value a life deeply observed—understanding human nature, exploring life’s eccentricities, and honouring the natural world. I aim to experiment with storytelling that forges meaningful connections and stirs audiences’ imaginations.”
Working with Alan Arumugam was an absolute pleasure. He has this clear vision and infectious energy that lifts everyone around him. Alan is one of those directors who really gets how important sound is to storytelling. From the very beginning, he brought me into the creative process and made space for sound to have a voice in the overall vision. He’s got a calm, focused energy that sets the tone on set, and he’s incredibly open to collaboration. Working with him felt like a real creative exchange and I’d love to do it again.
Working with director Alan Arumugam was a truly rewarding experience. He brings clarity, passion, and a contagious enthusiasm on set that elevates everyone around him. His collaborative style and calm confidence create a space where creativity thrives, making the filmmaking process both smooth and inspiring. As a cinematographer, I found our partnership creatively fulfilling and energising—I'd jump at the chance to work with him again.
Working with Ilanthirayan Arumugam is always a collaborative deep dive. He brings a rare clarity of vision to each project, paired with an openness that encourages genuine creative exchange. Whether the work is technically demanding, emotionally layered, or both, he fosters an environment where ideas can evolve and sharpen without ego. His process invites you to think boldly, trust your instincts, and refine the work until it finds its best shape. There’s a natural ease to collaborating with him — a balance of rigour's and freedom that makes even complex challenges feel energising. It’s sharp, honest, and always rewarding.
Alan’s drive is towards the heart of the story, always searching for ways to make it clearer - and more compelling. He’s tenacious too, leading his team ever deeper into the project and seeing it through.
Working with Alan is always a genuine pleasure. His passion and enthusiasm for film are truly contagious. From the moment I met him, I was struck by his deep knowledge of cinema and his unwavering commitment to creating outstanding films. Watching him in action is inspiring—his meticulous attention to every detail of the filmmaking process stands out.
Alan’s love for the action genre and his strong appreciation for the role of the stunt department bring a refreshing and thoughtful approach to his work.
It’s a privilege to join forces with Alan on his upcoming international trilogy, I am thoroughly impressed by Alan’s visionary approach, distinctive storytelling style, and exceptional skill set as both a filmmaker and screenwriter. His ability to craft compelling narratives and bring them to life on screen is truly inspiring. His passion and creative expertise make him an exceptional collaborator, and I am excited about the incredible journey ahead as we bring these cinematic stories to life.
YSA SCREEN MEDIA
Office 1
Level 1, 68 Commercial Road, Newstead, QLD – 4006
Office 2
Garden City Office Park,
2404 Logan Road, Eight Mile Plains, QLD – 4113
Mobile: (+61) 401021551
Ysascreenmedia@gmail.com