Deepa Esther eyes the big prize

We’ve all grown up watching movies, idolising stars and even believing that tinsel town — a magical universe filled with fame, riches and popularity — is far removed from where we are. While many newcomers wait on the sidelines for that elusive call that will make them the next heartthrob, the smart ones do not mind being a small part of a big film. They know that everyone has to start somewhere after all and slow and steady can sometimes win the race.

Deepa Esther is an example of someone who didn’t really have a flying start. Her first film Mahaprabhu didn’t even see the light of day. But the belief she had in her dreams is slowly bearing fruit.  Deepa has no qualms revealing that she started off small three years ago. “I played a small role as Prithviraj’s friend in James and Alice and later played a slogan shouting-flag waving woman in CIA. Though a miniscule role, which I did not want to accept initially, I did a rethink and decided I did not want to lose out on being a part of a film directed by Amal Neerad,” she mentions.  

The Prithviraj-Indrajith starrer Tiyaan had her hogging substantial screen space as an untouchable woman with a son, who are shunned by mainstream society.  Currently, she is excited about two upcoming films that have her playing bigger roles. The films Naam and Kuttanpillayude Sivarathri are coincidentally releasing on the same day. Naam is a campus-based story directed by Joshy Thomas. Talking about her role, she explains, “I play a substantial role as a college senior in a gang of three that rags the newcomers.”  

The role in Kuttanpillayude Sivarathri has her playing a maid who is there throughout the film. Pausing for a moment, she says, “I have been lucky to act with leading names in films and what pleases me is all these roles have come seeking me. Presently, I am waiting for good roles.”   She is also acting in a TV serial Gowri, where she plays the lead character’s sister’s friend. Theatre is another passion of hers and she is a part of Act-Lab, whose plays she is actively engaged in.  

Acting is not the only passion that Deepa has; she is also an MC and host who even does shows abroad. In fact, Kollywood has come calling. She says, “I have been getting calls for Tamil films but I am yet to decide on that. But I am considering trying my luck there.” Before ending, she adds, “I have an upcoming film, actually an anthology film of seven vignettes, and I play the lead in one of them.” It seems her wait for a lead is finally over.  .