It looks like the composer-turned-hero GV Prakash Kumar is having a great time in K’town. The actor has been chosen by four leading Tamil filmmakers to essay the lead role in their films. As he is gearing up for his next film, Bruce Lee’s release, the Darling actor speaks to DC about his experiences, fan boy moments with uncle ARR and Ilaiyaraaja, among others.
Bruce Lee, a dark humour film:
I have done slapstick and dialogue-based comedy in the past. Bruce Lee is dark humour. When director Prashanth Pandiyaraj narrated the script, I was convinced that it would create an impact. I play a character who is the exact opposite of Bruce Lee (smiles). Though the character wants to emulate Lee after watching one of his movies, in reality, he is timid and runs away whenever he gets involved in any fracas.
Leading directors chose me:
The year 2017 has been very fortunate for me. I am part of projects by four noted filmmakers — Rajiv Menon, Bala, Vetri Maaran and Sasi. They follow different styles and approaches — it is like enrolling in different acting schools. I feel honoured that they chose me for their projects.”
Bala gave me a gist of the script:
People say that Bala sir doesn’t narrate the script even to big actors. I do not know about others, but Bala sir and I got along very well right from the day we collaborated for Paradesi. He gave me the gist of Naachiyaar’s story, including my character sketch. I am sure it is going to be a learning experience for me.
Rajeev Menon’s is a ‘desi’ La La Land:
I play a percussionist in Sarvam Thaala Mayam and the story is set in two states. It has been inspired by incidents from a few musicians’ lives. I am learning mridangam from Padma Vibhushan Umayalpuram Sivaraman sir. Rajeev Menon has given it a broadway musical treatment. His making style will be akin to Hollywood standards.
Working with Ilaiyaraaja and AR Rahman:
It is really exciting to work in my uncle Rahman’s compositions in STM. My mama and I share a great relationship. Also his son Ameen and other family members are dear to me. I have sung many of Raja sir’s numbers on stage and it is a huge fan moment for me to work with him in Naachiyaar. I consider this as an opportunity to lip-sync for the two legends of world cinema.”
Vetri Maaran’s is a new genre:
Vetri sir has sort of shifted from the usual dark genre for our film, but the realism will be intact in the script. It’s set in a town atmosphere.
