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Every actor, director, and producer want all their films to do well. So you choose the role carefully, listen to the script, and work hard. But there is no way of predicting whether it will be a hit or a flop.
Mohanlal
There was a time when not many people had access to Malayalam films. So those who did have access went on to copy the films, add a few bits, and present it like it was their own.
Being an actor doesn't mean that I can't react to what's happening around me.
For me, every film is an interesting experience.
Robert de Niro is my favourite actor.
I generally have confidence in my directors.
If I had not made a film like 'Vaanaprastham', I would not have been able to go to Cannes or any other festival. I would not have had a chance to act as a Kathakali artiste. I would not have had a chance to be with some of the greatest Kathakali artistes. I consider all this my good fortune.
Life is not about acting in films alone. There are so many things in life other than films and acting.
I can never forget my first film - it was instrumental in me becoming an actor.
For an actor, it is great to have fans.
As an actor, we can only do what the director wants. Only the director has a vision of the entire film.
When I have something to say or share with my viewers, I turn to my blog, and even then, I make it clear that it is my take on certain events.
There comes a turning point in the life of every person when he reflects on his journey and work and ponders on the next road to take. Is this the pinnacle, the ultimate? What next?
I was not the producer of 'Vaanaprastham' earlier. The first producers backed out when they became doubtful about the monetary benefits. I do not blame them. But as an actor, I wanted to make the film. So, I told Shaji sir that I would produce the film. It was only then we started shooting.
It's a great honour for me to be a part of a Kamal Haasan film.
'Oppam' is more of a director's movie, especially because I play a visually-challenged hero in it. The character doesn't have a perspective, and so cameras aren't placed like how they are usually done in other movies. The angles and the way the scenes are captured are different.
Destiny plays a very important role in my life.
We tend to have so many more close shots, which compels an artist to actually put in more effort than it is required otherwise. So, it is the expressions on the face, and how an actor presents his or her character, that really makes a scene. In such ways, Mollywood is a fabulous training ground for actors and actresses from other industries.
If you are a very ordinary human being, nothing affects you, nothing bothers you, and nothing troubles you. That's how I live my life.
I own a couple of restaurants in places like Dubai and Sharjah.
To me, only the filmmaker and the role matters.
Films are not meant to be watched only by fans but by everyone. Fans are those who like what we do. When we do things that only they like, then we are becoming their fans.
Even in Hollywood, filmmakers are re-creating classics at regular intervals.
No amount of praise should go to your head. You should always remain humble.
I never argue with any director. When they say something will click, I believe them.
I love to take some holidays. In fact, I am a guy who wants to take a break for at least 10 days after each movie.
I work, or spend much of my time with the same friends who were with me right from my first movie.
I do all my films happily, and I enjoy every moment of it.
In developed countries, strong rules are in place to restrict sound pollution and curb its deadly effects. As law-abiding citizens with social responsibility, we should all come together against this unhealthy trend.
I have been writing my blog for several years. Whenever I have written about pertinent subjects, no one has supported them. For instance, the stray dog menace. I cycle in the morning every day, and I am still scared of stray dog attacks.
Every actor or director has their ups and downs.
Cinema is an art form, a result of dedication of a number of people.
Be it cinema or TV, I have always been interested in taking up challenging projects.
Sometimes, you fall into a ditch without knowing it is there, without seeing it, but you try to come out of it. If you fall again, you will jump out again.
If you ask me whether I can direct, I can. In fact, I have shot several songs, scenes and stunts. When certain directors of my movies were not able to be there for some reason and had asked me to help out, I have directed. But to helm an entire movie is a different art altogether.
You cannot judge the performance of an actor in isolation. A performance becomes good because of so many factors, including the other actors.
It's my right to write on what I feel about certain incidents, and it's your choice whether to read it or not.
Cinema has given me everything in life, and I will continue acting till the end.
Just like films, food is also a passion for me.
I never ever aspired for anything in life. I don't believe in planning or yearning for something very strongly. If something has to happen, it will happen.
There's this tendency to be held in great esteem if you are judgmental. A sort of moral policing, being opinionated. What right has one to act like judges? What right has one to police another?
People know I am not blind or have super strength, yet they believed in my characters in 'Oppam' and 'Pulimurugan.' It's that belief of the audience that is also my greatest strength. Once that is gone, I might have to shut up shop and look for another job.
Acting is my profession; I enact all roles with sincerity.
Life is a collage of events, really.
All my films can't be like 'Narasimham.'
I have seen 'A Wednesday', and it is a wonderful film.
I use my hands a lot while acting.
I don't prepare for my characters.
TV has the most reach among the audience. Movies are watched only by those who like cinema.
I have a shot a lot of movies in Dubai.