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Heading for a hat trick?
S.R.ASHOK KUMAR
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As ‘Sandai’ runs to full houses, Sundar C talks about how he managed a smooth transition from direction to acting.
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Kushboo and I respect each other’s space. She doesn’t interfere in my work and vice versa
Avoiding the image trap: Sundar C
From wielding the megaphone to facing the camera and from shouting ‘Action’ to delivering the right action, director-actor Sundar C’s journey through tinsel town has been an interesting one.
With ‘Sandai’ running to packed houses, Sundar, who plays action hero for the third time — after box-office successes ‘Thalainagaram’ and ‘Veerappu,’ settles for a chat amidst the hustle and bustle of shooting for his forthcoming film on the outskirts of Chennai. Excerpts:
What is ‘Sandai’ about?
It revolves round the conflict between a mother-in-law and her son-in-law. When I knew Nadia was playing my mom-in-law, I couldn’t resist it. It’s a dream role for any hero. I’m happy the film has had a good opening at the box office.
You’ve had a successful run as a director. What prompted you to switch to acting?
I’ve made 24 films in 10 years. It was getting monotonous. Besides, I was not comfortable narrating stories to the new crop of heroes. I did get offers to act even when I was directing films. But I thought I didn’t have the looks to become an actor. I was also doubtful about my voice modulation and diction. Thankfully, the audience has accepted me.
Most director-actors prefer to direct their own films, but that’s not the case with you…
The problem is you will fall into an image trap. But when I act in a film by another director, I get to play a variety of roles. I consider myself a beginner as far as acting is concerned. I know I have to focus on histrionics, costumes and toning my body.
But it’s already late…
I won’t agree with that. In the Tamil film industry, there’s no bar on age. In fact, most of our top stars haven’t given hits in the beginning of their career. It’s when they played mature roles that they were received well at the box-office. Besides, I’m not acting in light-hearted teenage romances. I play serious roles that suit my age and personality.
Does success in acting mean the end of directing?
Right now, I’m concentrating on acting. Direction is time-consuming. To direct, one must have the urge. If I get the right script, I might take it up — but certainly not now.
I came to Chennai without any definite aim. When my stay in the city got extended, I joined director Manivannan as an assistant director. Direction, production and acting followed.
I never planned out things; I just took them as they came.
What is your actor-wife Kushboo’s contribution to your career?
She’s a good critic and can easily spot the flaws in my work. That has helped me. I’m also cautious about my acting because I know I have a senior actor in the family! We discuss a lot about our career. We also find time for our kids.
How do you react to the controversies concerning your wife?
She is misunderstood. I’m with her through her ups and downs. The issues are being tackled legally.
Is it true Kushboo selects your heroines?
That’s baseless. We respect each other’s space. She doesn’t interfere in my work and vice versa.
What’s Sundar C the person like?
I’m a happy-go-lucky person. I do lose my temper sometimes. Otherwise, I don’t take things seriously. Can you imagine? All I wanted in life was a secure bank job, a scooter and weekly visits to the beach with my family! My dreams were middle class. As I said, direction and acting just happened. Thankfully, doors opened for me.
What are your forthcoming films?
You’ll see me in ‘Ayutham Seivom,’ ‘ Thee’ and ‘Perumal.’ Besides, there’s ‘Ayntham Padai’ to be produced by Kushboo and directed by ‘Veerappu’-fame Badri.
BIG FIVE
Top five directorial ventures of Sundar C:
•Arunachalam
•Anbe Sivam
•Ullathai Allitha
•Unnai Thedi
•Giri
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Friday Review
Bangalore
Chennai and Tamil Nadu
Delhi
Hyderabad
Thiruvananthapuram
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