Over the years, we have seen Shanthnu Bhagyaraj as a charmer or as a chocolate boy. But, ever since the teaser of Mupparimanam was released, the perception of him has completely changed — sporting a new look, Shanthnu looks grim and intense. In a candid conversation with DC, the Ammavin Kaipesi actor opens up about how this movie will change people’s perception of him, the homework he did for the role and his aspirations.
“The teaser wouldn’t have been such a success if not for Vivek Harshan’s editing, G V Prakash Kumar’s music, and Adhiroopan’s direction. They put in their best to make the teaser gripping,” starts Shanthnu, adding, “I would also like to convey my thanks to Kalaipuli Thanu sir for letting us play the trailer along with Kabali and also all the theatre operators.”
Speaking about the film, Shanthnu hopes that the film will bring a new dimension to his career. “To be frank, a few of my films earlier haven’t done really well due to various reasons. And, I myself wanted to break my image of being a chocolate boy. Hence, I was consciously waiting for a good script. When Mupparimanam came my way, I was delighted.”
When speaking about the homework he did to fit the role, Shanthnu says that he pushed his limits for this film. “Since my role demanded me to be angry, I did upside-down pushups before every scene so that my eyes looked red and intense. Apart from this, the director took the effort to make my look as raw as possible — for instance, I was once made to stand at the edge of a mountain alone and made to listen to Enge Sellum Indha Paathai! But, after seeing the output, I am elated,” he reminisces.
Even while dubbing, he had a regular routine so as to retain the intensity of the role. “I used to wake up early in the morning and I never talked to anyone and didn’t drink a single drop of water. This helped me utter dialogues which suited the character,” he quips.
On a concluding note, he reveals that he hasn’t signed for any new film. “I want to wait till the release of Mupparimanam, before deciding anything. Let’s hope for the best!” he says and signs off.
