Excited to see Vikram and me together again: Trisha

With the much-awaited Kodi releasing this Friday, Trisha talks about why she agreed to be a part of the rural-based script after a longtime.

As cliched as it sounds, the Number One slot in the movie circuit keeps changing every Friday. But despite competition, Trisha has managed to survive in K’town for more than 12 years, and remains to be one of the most sought-after actresses even today. Did she just get lucky? No, there seems to be an equal amount of hard work, grit and determination that made Trisha who she is today. When we met her for a quick chat, she was all smiles, chirpy and totally relaxed. Excerpts from the interview...

You are pairing up with Dhanush for the first time in Kodi. Tell us more about the film.

Working with Dhanush was so much fun and I’m glad that we are finally sharing screen space. Both of us were supposed to do a couple of films initially. Unfortunately, nothing materialised due to dates and other issues. I can see everywhere that expectations are quite high. After many years, I am doing a rural-based script. Both of us have powerful roles and not the usual romantic ones; but there is a separate love track. My character (Rudra) has negative shades as well, which will make the second half interesting. For the first time in my career, I am attempting something of that sort — in terms of dialogue delivery and body language. But, it is not a stereotypical villainous role. Overall, it’s a simple, well-executed story.

You’ve been working in the industry for more than a decade. How do you feel?

I feel blessed when I think I am sustaining. I enjoy what I am doing and I have also grown along with the trends of the industry. I am happy with the way things have worked out for me, such as commercial hits, appreciation, and so on. Especially in the last two to three years, the journey has been amazing, and I feel more confident, thanks to the new crop of directors. At the same time, I am not on a signing spree. I don’t accept films unless they excite me. 

Do you have any regrets when your films don’t do well?

None whatsoever! In a long career, that’s bound to happen. It’s something natural. Every job tends to have highs and lows. Also, we don’t know the fate of the film until it gets released. Of course, I sign every film with so much goodwill hoping that it should be a box-office hit. (smiles)

Now that Kodi  is releasing, what’s on your mind? 

Well, I must tell you, I treat every film as my first one. Even now, there’s this sense of excitement the previous night before every film’s release. I have made it a ritual to watch all my films on the First Day First Show. I can’t wait to wake up on Friday and see how the audience is going to react to my performances. You know, I give it my all. There’s no place for complacency. I don’t believe in number games and to me, quality work is important. I’d be happy being home and do nothing, instead of acting in a film that I don’t believe in. 

You seem to be content doing more women-centric roles these days. Comment.

I am enjoying the phase I am in today. I have the liberty to choose whatever interests me. I don’t believe in sticking to a monotony. That’s why I have no issues doing mass-commercial projects too. I want to try out different genres and I play characters that I feel would work with the audience. I go by certain norms, which have proved to be right so far. 

You have done many films across industries. Can you name a few roles you cherish? 

Ah, that’s going to be difficult — to pick out a few from a long list. Let me try. The first three films that I did in Telugu are close to my heart. Varsham (2004), Nuvvostanante Nenoddantana (2005) and Aadavari Matalaku Arthale Verule (2007). In Tamil — I love my roles in Abhiyum Naanum (2008), Vinnaithaandi Varuvaayaa (2010) and Yennai Arindhaal (2015). (Pauses) How can I forget Saamy (2003) and Ghilli (2004)? They made me what I am today! (Laughs)
 
Are you excited about Saamy 2? 

Yes, I am. Pretty much! But I don’t think Hari even has the script. Since the announcement, everybody has been talking about it and it is trending on Twitter. People want to see Vikram and me together again. I get their excitement. Things are in a premature stage. Honestly, I don’t know where it’s headed.

With whom do you think you share a good onscreen chemistry?

I have realised that chemistry works because of the good film. It’s never about two people. If the characters work, the chemistry naturally works. 

What’s next in the pipeline?

I am finishing up with Mohini. We have a few weeks of work left. It’s a fun film, and has a lot of elements like romance and comedy. I think it’s the first Tamil horror film to be completely shot in London. And, I have started shooting Sathuranga Vettai 2 with Arvind Swami.

Why haven’t we seen you in a film with Superstar yet?

(Laughs) People ask me this question wherever I go. 
I would love to act with him. I think I am going to be here for some more time and hope my wish 
gets fulfilled. 

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