Vishal at the top of his game!

2016 has been an eventful year for Vishal, actor-general secretary of the South Indian Artistes’ Association. Considering winning the Nadigar Sangam elections as one of the biggest achievements in his life, he says he has been working round the clock. Simultaneously shooting for Mysskin’s Thupparivaalan and Mithran’s Irumbu Thirai, he has been looking forward to spending more time with his family...at least in 2017. 

Excerpts follow:

Why did you choose Kaththi Sandai/Okkadochadu?

I said okay to the script because of Vadivelu sir. The story, inspired by Robin Hood, will appeal to all. Usually, director Suraaj doesn’t convey messages through his movies. For a change, he has tried to convey a social message in this one. It won’t be preachy. At the same time, the film has commercial elements. There are interesting climax sequences, too. We were supposed to get the film released by Diwali. Then, we postponed it to Pongal (January 2017). But as a team, we felt that December 23 was the perfect time. 

You target B and C centres all the time...why?

Not really. I want to be a part of engaging and entertaining scripts. I don’t believe in categorising the audience. Kaththi Sandai is an urban story, and has the scope of being a good entertainer. Pairing up with Tamannaah for the first time hnas raised curiosity.

Tell us about your onscreen chemistry with Tamannaah.

Many felt that both of us were a odd combination. (Laughs) We hit it off well on the sets, as well.

How have you been managing your shooting schedules and Sangam-related work?

It has been pretty hectic, but I am managing so far. Everything is a team effort. We have been actively working to make the organisation better. We have brought the entire fraternity together — youngsters and senior actors. The change has been democratic. We have kept our promises, and are keen to provide good governance. Of course, we’re going ahead with plans to get our own building. We’re trying to make everything neutral politically. 

Upcoming projects...

I am busy shooting Mysskin’s Thupparivaalan. I play a stylish detective character similar to Sherlock Holmes. Also, I am a part of Irumbu Thirai, where I share screen space with Samantha. I play an army man in it. Debutant PS Mithran is directing this one. Yuvan Shankar Raja is composing the music. 

How are you enjoying it as a producer?

It’s both an advantage and a disadvantage. I have the liberty to choose the right script. On the other hand, there’s a lot of pressure as there’s so much money involved. 

(The piece was originally published for The New Indian Express)