At a time when Bollywood actors are the preferred lot to be cast as antagonists in films featuring biggies in the lead, debut actor AP Shreethar proves that there’s no dearth of talent in K’town. A popular artiste, Shreethar’s passion for films drew him to Tamil cinema. Having played a powerful villain in 400 episodes of Bharathiraja’s mega TV series Therkatthi Ponnu, he will be seen playing Varadhu, a scheming gangster in the film Andhra Mess directed by Jai.
“I know Jai’s dad, who is a sculptor. Jai is a well-known name in the ad film circuit. My work as an artiste fascinated him. He kept telling me that there was a creative person in me. And when he was ready to make a commercial film, he called and offered me the powerful role of Varadhu,” Shreethar says.
The actor’s stint on Bharathiraja’s daily soap has brought him into the limelight. “I have been in the film industry for a long time, but behind the scenes. Bharathiraja sir compelled me to play the menacing Thirukku Paandi, the main villain in Therkatthi Ponnu. That was my big break. One of the biggest compliments that I received for my performance came from none other than former CM Kalaignar Karunanidhi. He was very appreciative of my work.”
While preparing for his next challenge, though, he had some help. “Jai sent Sanjeevi from Koothu-p-pattarai to train me to pick up the body language, diction and looks to play a gangster,” Shreethar says.
The promising debutant is already inundated with offers even before his film’s release. “I am waiting for the right role. And although I plan to continue acting in the future, I am currently tied up with my global 3D click-art paintings museums,” he signs off.
