Director-turned-actor Sundar C seems to have every reason to cheer up. His next venture, Nagaram is readying for release this month and the mood is upbeat at home. After all, the film is his 10th as an actor and 24th as a director. On the brink of a silver jubilee, the director is excited about his return to direction after a gap of four years, post Rendu. “This story came to me like a spark,” he recalls. “ I was so taken up by it that I immediately wanted to direct it and jumped straightaway into the project.” Talking about Nagaram, he says, “The story revolves around Chennai city and a middle class boy whose life changes due to the circumstances he’s involved in.” Talk about the cast and his face lights up.
“G Srinivasan, a veteran yesteryear artiste, returns to the screen as villain in Na garam. I chanced upon him quite by accident and it immediately struck me that he would be apt for the role, and we convinced him to do it.” Sundar’s comedy tracks are a highlight of his films.
In Nagaram, history repeats itself.
“Vadivelu plays 'Style Pandi' and comes with a get-up that is completely different. It’s a sheer laugh riot,” grins Sundar, who teams up with Vadivelu post their last stint, years ago in Thalainagaram. Vadivelu had a ten-day call sheet and took ten days to dub. So, one can imagine the extent of his rip roaring role! How comfortable was Anuya with their on screen lip lock? Sundar responds, “Some actors enter the industry and leave in a few years after making the material gains they had aimed at. Others are deeply involved in cinema and want to leave a mark.
Anuya is one such involved actor. In fact, I was very impressed with her dedication. When I suggested the liplock to her without pre planning, she immediately understood its significance in the film and agreed without fuss. At other times she would do certain shots only after we spent time convincing her about their importance.” Maria, an Iranian girl who has settled in Sweden, is also part of the cast. For Sundar, the film is a complete package the audiences will enjoy. He concludes, “I liked Thaman’s music in Eeram and his fresh, youthful tracks will be the highlight of the film.” Guess we’ll find that out as soon as Nagaram hits all the nagars in Chennai!