Bangalore, May 16 (IANS) Kannada actor-director Ramesh Arvind, who forayed into the thriller genre with 'Accident' after making two successful comedies, says it was a conscious decision to move into a different zone.

He is happy that urban audience is appreciating his endeavour.

'Directing comedies is a comfort zone for me. I could have done it easily and I have gained some success out of it. But I did want to move away from this comfort zone and do something that was thrilling and challenging,' Ramesh, who directed 'Rama Shaama Bhaama' and 'Sathyavaan Saavithri', told IANS.

He has received rave reviews for 'Accident', which is not only stylishly presented but has also been able to hold the curiosity of the audience till the end.

'Now I feel happy to have directed a thriller which I feel appeals largely to the people who like different types of films.'

Ramesh says before he started shooting the film, he had promised the audience that 'Accident' would be an enjoyable fare.

'And I have kept my promise. The collections are still encouraging in the city centres. I am also happy that I have introduced some extremely talented technicians in the film.

'Ricky Kej, the music director, has done a great job and is sure to go places in the world of film music in the coming days. I am happy that my confidence in new talent has paid rich dividends.'

He says directing 'Accident' has helped him learn many things.

'I have been able to improve my scriptwriting. I was able to correct some of the mistakes I was doing earlier and tried to be as honest as possible in presenting this film.'

'Accident' had two heroines - Pooja Gandhi and Rekha. Pooja says that she was lucky to be part of the film, which has brought her fans among the family audience.

She said: 'Starting from the film's producer Raghunath, everyone connected with the film is intelligent, knowledgeable and communicative. It was easy for me to work in such an atmosphere. Ramesh is too nice a human being and a great actor and director to work with.'