With his latest Pongal release, Siruthai, produced by Studio Green, actor Karthi will be five films old. The man has already created a sensation with a hat trick last year. So expectations are naturally high from his big Pongal release which is a complete commercial entertainer, showcasing Karthi in his first dual role.
So what is the buzz surrounding Siruthai ?
Karthi reveals it all in a free-wheeling chat chat in Media.
How is the title significant for the film?
Well, the Siruthai (panther) is a great strategist. The common saying about this animal is: "even if you are not watching him, he is watching you". He is constantly observing and ready to strike at the right moment. My character of the cop Ratnavel Pandian in the film is like that. It's a warning to bad elements to be careful, because he is always watching.
You play a dual role for the first time as a cop and pickpocket. How did you prepare for it?
For the cop role I not only trained physically to suit the part but also met police officers to understand how they think and work. For the pickpocket character, Rocket Raja, I met several pickpockets to understand them and get the body language etc. Director Siva deserves all the credit since he had the two roles clearly etched and helped me bring out the nuances on screen. They are totally different. The cop is serious while the thief is a complete laugh riot who will rob anything and sell it.
What is the USP of the film?
Siruthai is a complete emotional entertainer. But there is a good 70% comedy too. I team up with Santhanam who plays a character called Kaatupoochi, and the chemistry is crackling. The stylish stunts by Ganesh master will be talked about. Director Siva has a good grasp of all aspects of cinema and cameraman Velraj has done an awesome job. Siruthai is a complete Pongal feast for the entire family
There are many 'firsts' in the film for you. Can you elaborate?
Yes it's the first time I have tried slapstick comedy, the first time I went on a foreign shoot ( in Phuket), the first time I act with a child artiste (Rakshana), my first dual role and first cop role as well! (laughs) I also don nine get ups for the first time.
How much have you improved with your dancing?
Well that's for audiences to say! I have danced for two songs, Rocket Raja and Rakamma. Both are fast numbers.
I think I am definitely more comfortable dancing now! (laughs).
You recently stated at a press meet that a makku ( dumb) girl would be good as a bride for you. Is that your preference?
No, I would like a friendly, smart and mature life partner. The remark I made was totally in jest and not serious at all. I was explaining that Tamannaah plays a pretty but dumb girl in the film who falls for the pickpocket. So when someone asked if I would choose a dumb or intelligent girl, I joked that a dumb girl may be a convenient choice as she wouldn't ask too many questions.
You are said to be choosy and haven't signed your next. What sort of films will you do in future?
I have done a variety of films from Paruthiveeran to date. In future too, I want to do films that run, whatever the genre, as long as it works and its done in an entertaining and convincing manner. I am comfortable with my pace and am taking it slow and steady. I am still new in cinema and have a long way to go.
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