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Seeking roles with range
S. R. ASHOK KUMAR
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Jeevan is just six-films-old, but has already made his mark in the Tamil movie industry.
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Eventful: Jeevan
He did a course in acting from Los Angeles Film Institute, before returning to Chennai to try his luck in Tamil cinema. Although just six-films-old, Jeevan has already made a mark in the Tamil film industry. He made his debut as a hero in ‘Uni
versity,’ but switched to a villain’s part in ‘Kakka Kakka.’ He did a couple of negative roles, before playing the hero in ‘Machakkaran.’ His latest movie, ‘Thotta’ will be released this month. Jeevan talks about his experiences. Excerpts from an interview:
Describe yourself…
An ordinary person with dreams and ambitions like everyone else and who wants to be successful in life.
Do you remember your first day of shooting?
How can I forget it? ‘University’ was produced by Mayapuri Satish and directed by Bragadeesh. I was introduced to the director by Mohan Raj, an art director. The first day’s shooting was held at Vasan’s house near Music Academy (now it has become a palatial multi-storey building). It was a scene with comedian Vivek and some friends.
I had finished a three-and-a-half-year course at the Stella Adler Academy of Acting in Los Angles. From there I came back to Chennai to try my luck in Tamil films. I was happy to get the part in ‘University,’ and while working in it I got a call for the ‘Kakka Kakka’ (‘KK’) role.
Aren’t you worried about your image while you toggle between hero and anti-hero roles?
Not really. I decided to do ‘KK’ as the script was fascinating and my part was very powerful. I was not bothered about the hero’s image [at that juncture] as ‘KK’ was only my second film. I have to thank director Goutham Menon, who gave me the role and encouraged me throughout the shooting. Then I waited for nearly two years and got ‘Thiruttupayale.’ When the film became a hit I realised that I was improving.
Do you think you did a better job than Gemini Ganesan in ‘Naan Avan Illai’?
Gemini was a legend. It is unfair to compare me with a veteran like him. He had produced the film and also got K. Balachandar to direct it. Obviously, he was the best. But I am happy as KB sir appreciated my work.
What about ‘Thotta’ ?
It is directed by Selva, and is in the final stages of production. The film is to be released this month and is based on a gangster’s life. It is purely a commercial movie. Priya Mani’s performance is good and so is Sampath Raj’s. The climax is different from films of this genre. We (the technicians and the actors) are waiting for the audience’s verdict.
What kind of roles do you wish to do in the future?
Definitely not the stereotype ones. Variety is what I am looking for.
Who is your role model in the film industry?
No one. But I would like to take the good points from various actors.
Tell us about two memorable incidents?
The first is the award I got in Chennai for ‘Kakka Kakka’ from Film Fare. The second is the affection shown by a fan in Malaysia, who met me at a restaurant and insisted that I go home with him to meet his little daughter (physically challenged), who has seen all my films. I was touched by their affection.
In the Tamil film industry, actors take to directing and music directors to singing. What about you ?
For me acting is life. That is my focus. As of now, all I want is to be a successful actor.
What are your future projects?
There are a few projects on the agenda after ‘Thotta.’ But at present I can only think about ‘Thotta’ and its success at the box-office.
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Friday Review
Bangalore
Chennai and Tamil Nadu
Delhi
Hyderabad
Thiruvananthapuram
|
