Madhavan, who defies run-of-the-mill, has come a long way from his debut days to a finely chiseled actor. He comes across as a very down-to-earth person and a star in his own right, going by the scores of fans he has all over the world. The actor has evolved into the higher echelons of acting, having acted under some of the most eminent directors in the field. His latest movie ‘Run’ rose above the expectations of the people and provided a fresh perspective of the actor. A favourite among the teen brigade, his is a face to reckon with. Here we present a one-on-one chat with
Madhavan.
How do you choose the movies you act in?
I normally choose to act in a movie by the screenplay - primarily, the basic story, the general trend as opposed to the last film and the director in that order.
After going through a rough patch in both South Indian films & Bollywood, ‘Run’ has become a major hit. What would you attribute its success to?
It is not true that I have had a rough patch; it is the media which has projected me that way. Almost all my movies have become a hit and due to this I don’t feel any different about ‘Run’ having succeeded.
You had acted in quite a few serials early in your career; how different is it to acting in movies?
Serials are a form of giving, where the individual may not come into play, whereas movies are more intense in terms of criticism or acclaim.
‘Kannathil Muthamittal’ created an overseas market for you, how do you relate to this?
‘Alaipayuthey’ and ‘Minnale’ opened overseas doors for me. ‘Kannathil Muthamittal’ gave me critical acclaim.
Acting is all encompassing, how innovative are you?
I withdraw from my everyday experiences and blend it with acting; my daily life reflects in my acting.
You have already acted
under some of the eminent directors in the Tamil film industry; was this a very
cautious move?
Not at all a cautious move. The story has to be appealing and my credibility as an actor has to be tapped. I just give whatever is expected of me in terms of acting; yet again as I have said earlier, deriving inspirations from my everyday life.
What is your dream role?
The role played by Mr. Kamal Hassan in ‘Nayakan’, Mr. Russell Crowe in ‘A Beautiful Mind’ are some of the roles I would have loved to play.
Coming from Maniratnam’s school of acting, do you think it is important to establish a style of your own?
I do not think it is important for an actor to establish a style of his own; on the other hand it is very important to be versatile as an actor. The homogeneity of a film will contribute to the success. I think an actor who is able to blend with the film is a good actor.
Success is one thing but consistency in success is a different game altogether. How do you manage?
I never think in that sense. I do whatever I am good at. It is more important for me to evolve into a good entertaining commodity and entertain my fans.
Any plans to venture into other South Indian films, apart from Tamil films?
No plans as of now. I am quite particular about dubbing for my own films. Right now I am not comfortable with other languages; when I perfect them I might go for it.
How does it feel to be performing alongside the acting icon Kamal Hassan in ‘Anbae
Sivam’?
It is the most rewarding experience. He is a brilliant actor and if I am able to learn even a wee bit from him, I would definitely consider myself as having achieved a lot.
How much of a role do you play in the making of a movie, apart from being an actor?
I do get into the pre-production of a film quite a bit, but once the actual filming starts I do not interfere.
It is common to get branded in the film industry. How would you break away from the monotony?
Like I said earlier the story is very important. When I am presented with a different and challenging role I would definitely do it.
Movies in the pipeline?
One movie with director Vikraman for AVM and I have decided to act in one movie at a time.
What are your other interests?
I play golf and am an internet fad.
If not an actor what would you have been?
I would have been in the defence working for the forces.
'Acham Thavir' is on hold - can you explain why?
The movie is on hold due to a problem with the script and we would resume shooting by the beginning of next year.
