Balachandra Menon needs no tag line in Malayalam movie industry. The master performer who once acted, scripted and directed hit movies that explored human emotions and relationships, is back. Menon, who is making a comeback with ‘Buddy’, a movie by Raj Prabhavathy Menon, is very engaged these days. Though busy with his daughter’s wedding, Menon finds some time to talk to us about his plans to get active, about working with new-generation movie makers and the three years he kept away from the screen.
So, why did he decide to do ‘Buddy’? “I was lovingly coaxed into doing the movie by Raj Prabhavathy Menon. He said he wanted to present me in a particular image. I play the role of Sankaran Namboothiri, a retired DGP who guides and influences the character played by Anoop Menon,” says Balachandra Menon. “Anoop and me had shared a sparkling chemistry in the tele-serial ‘Megham’. We hope to revive it in the movie.” says Menon.
‘Buddy’ will portray Menon in his trademark enthusiasm and vigour which according to Menon, ‘was something the director wanted’. “I was hesitant about using a hairpiece and a flashy appearance. But, the director insisted. He even wanted me to do stunts in the movie,” quips Menon.
Menon says the audience can get to see more of him in the coming days. “I am planning to become active in the industry once again. My priorities are acting and scripting, in that order. Only if I get a passionate project, will I venture into direction,” says Menon as a matter-of-fact.
The positive outlook and renewed zeal are very evident in Menon’s words. He jokingly tells us about a text he sent to Raj Prabhavathy Menon. “I sent him a SMS saying that I have begun to utter the word ‘touch-up’ again in my sleep after a span of three years. I told him to take care of me. He was so happy to hear that. It was my way of telling people that I am ready for more projects,” says Menon.
And, for someone who is so enthusiastic about the tinsel world, how could he go on a sabbatical? “I just think of it as a gap. But, I was never sitting idle. I spend my time writing books, short stories and completed LLB. I never had time to think about my illness. Actually, the period helped me attain enlightenment,” says Balachandra Menon.
Menon, who is often attached with old school of film-making, says he gets along well with new-generation filmmakers. “Contrary to what many think, I get along well with young movie makers and actors. I actually missed the fun and energy in their sets,” says Menon.
And, he dismisses reports about him criticising new-gen movies. “Being somebody who is more experienced, I was just guiding them. In fact, V K Prakash, who is said to belong to the new-gen camp, expressed interest to remake my first movie ‘Uthrada Rathri’. Unfortunately, the script and the print have vanished,” says Menon.
Does he feel that the story and situations in today’s movies have undergone a sea change? “Regardless of the time and changes, what I feel is that a movie should ultimately convey emotions, though in its various classifications. The movie should hook your mind and capture your interest, it should linger in you mind even after you leave the cinema. Only then will a movie be a success,” says Menon who adds that it is creativity and emotions and not technology that create a movie.