I do not decide the heroines of my films: Vikram Prabhu

Vikram Prabhu is a busy man these days, shuttling between two films Wagah and Veera Sivaji. Meanwhile, another film of the actor’s, an untitled flick, which is directed by SN Prabhakaran of Sundarapandian fame, recently went to the cutting floor. Giving him company in this film is Manjima Mohan, whose debut in Tamil with Simbu is yet to be released. DC caught up with the actor who was gearing up for his first shot at the locale of Mani Mahal.

A set resembling a market with a Rajini Tea Stall, a petty shop, an Ajith Fan Club board, and posters of Vedalam had been put up all over the walls. Vikram Prabhu walked in and spoke a few dialogues, and the shot was canned. “Do you play an Ajith fan?” we begin our conversation. Vikram flashes his charming smile. “Do you think so? If so, let it be,” the actor, tight lipped about his character, cleverly replies.

Speaking to DC during the break, the Kumki star said, “It was a long overdue film under the Sathyajothi Films banner. I was to do a film with them soon after Kumki. Somehow, it got postponed, until now when it is getting materialised. I was impressed when Prabhakaran sir narrated this story, which caters to all types of audiences.” The actor says that he is excited to team up with music composer Yuvan Shankar Raja for the first time. “I am thrilled! Yuvan’s dad Raja sir has worked with my dad and given memorable hits. He has even collaborated for my thatha’s (Sivaji Ganesan) movies. Now, Yuvan and I, the next generation are working together. Yuvan has already started working on the songs.”

Right from his debut movie, Vikram has romanced newbies. Prod him on why he does not work with ‘A’ list actresses like Nayanthara or Trisha, and he replies, “It all depends on the script. As far as my pair in the film is concerned, I don’t interfere. The director who has conceived the story knows better whom to choose. Moreover, a big heroine might help with the opening of a flick, but unless the content is good, the film will eventually not fare well.”

Vikram Prabhu plays Guna, a guy who has completed his studies and is on the lookout for a job. He gets into a challenging predicament, and how Manjima, who plays a college girl, gets entangled in it and helps him out, forms the crux of the movie. Director Prabhakaran says, “The movie is set against the backdrop of Trichy, and is inspired by a real life incident that took place in my friend’s life. We have zeroed in on a powerful title, which is very relevant to the story, but which was already registered by someone else. Talks are on with them, and we are confident of getting the usage rights.”