Srikanth, now described Ilaya Thamizhan (young Tamizh), is eagerly awaiting the release of his film Oru Naal Oru Kanavu directed by Fazil. The latter is directing a Tamil film after a long hiatus. Many expect Oru Naal Oru Kanavu would do to Srikanth's career what Kathalukku Mariyasai did to Vijay's.
In a chat with Shobha Warrier, Srikanth talks about the film, its director and his expectations.
I am 26. When Fazil Sir made his first film 25 years ago, I was 1. That very thought makes me look up to him. I am lucky to have this chance to work under him. It was like working in the films made by K Balachander, Bharatiraja, etc.
Fazil Sir is still very young at heart. He is younger than me in many ways. He is energetic, vibrant and innovative. He is not only a good director but a great actor too. While directing, he would enact every scene to you. It was a nice learning experience for me. Fazil sir is an acting institution and you are learning so many things in there. He believes in expressions and takes many shots to depict them. He does not have to look into the monitor for emotions, rather he would look at you closely so that he notices even the slightest of changes.
Silence is the other name for Fazil sir's sets. There is pin drop silence there.
I have seen all his films and to me, Manichitrathazhu is a classic. All great Malayalam directors have taken training under him. That speaks for his acumen. One would find it hard to believe that Priyadarshan, Sibi Malayil directed many portions of Manichitrathazhu.
Oru Naal Oru Kanavu is a simple love story which emphasizes on human emotions. In fact, the finesse of the story makes you spontaneously emote. To me, the film is an enriched emotional drama.
I play Srinivas in the film, who is lovingly called Cheenu. The heroine (played by Sonia Agarwal) plays Maya Devi or Maya. Srinivas appears a very positive person. According to him, there is nothing demeaning about any work. He does everything with dignity and sincerity and saves every penny he earns for the family. He is an over-enthusiastic and hyperactive person. In my short career, I have not done this kind of a role before.
Somewhere in the plot, Srinivas meets Maya who is from a very well-to-do family, someone who always wants to be the winner. Love blossoms. The plot, replete with twists and turns, revolves around what happens later.
I adore the way Fazil Sir makes films so much so that I would love to do another film with him, if possible.
Kathalukku Maryadai by him was a turning point in Vijay's career. I am sure Oru Naal Oru Kanvu will be in mine.
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