KOCHI: Vinay Fortt is upbeat these days. His phone hasn’t stopped ringing ever since Premam hit theatres and he doesn’t hide his glee. “In fact, the number of calls and appreciations I received in the first three days after the release of Premam were countless. My whole career has got a new meaning,” says Vinay whose act as a love-struck teacher incited a laugh riot.
Well, for somebody who rarely played anything comical onscreen, his whole performance came as a surprise for scores. “Alphonse Puthren (director) was convinced I could do it. When I was told about the role, I was apprehensive whether to do it or not. So, I met Alphonse who suggested I give it a try. But, once I read the script, the canteen scene in particular, I knew this one was going to be super funny,” says Vinay.
But, he thinks that it is the exceptional talent of Alphonse and the brotherly chemistry he shares with Soubin Shahir that worked big time.
“Soubin and I are friends from the time we did Masala Republic. He has a great sense of humour and we get along so well. When we are together, it is just like in the movie, lot of fun. Our real-life chemistry worked for the movie as well,” says Vinay.
He is quick to add that the Alphonse’s style to movie making did really help. “Alphonse is an actor’s director and not one who sticks to the script. He will give us the freedom to contribute to the scene. If we have something exciting to add to a certain scene, he gives us the go-ahead and that way we are more comfortable,” says Vinay.
But, he thinks what endeared his character and the movie as a whole to the audience is the earthy vibe the movie shared. “The characters are so raw, people you see in your daily life. There is nobody larger than life here and my character is one of them,” says Vinay who adds that the casting was perfect. “Everybody auditioned for their roles. This is something not very popular in our industry. There are actors who have qualms auditioning but I think it is something every actor should do. It is an actor’s ethic and I believe it is a director’s right to get an audition as well,” says the actor who debuted in 2009.
Vinay attributes the success of Premam to the dedication and talent of the team. “It is a work of youngsters. Alphonse and his team spend an entire one-and-a-half year working on this project and they deserve the kudos,” says Vinay.
Vinay will next be seen in Monsoon Mangoes by Aby Varghese shot in US, Urumbukal Urangarilla by Jiju Ashokan and Godse by director Sherry.