Chennai: “Ponmagal Vandhal is a court-room drama that will have a social message. We have spoken about an important issue”, says actress Jyotika.
Directed by JJ Frederick, the movie revolves around Venpa (Jyotika), an advocate. The cast includes Bhagyaraj, Pandiyarajan, Parthiban, Thiagarajan, and Prathap Pothen.
The movie produced by Suriya’s 2D Entertainment has garnered enough attention for it is the first movie to have a direct release on OTT platform Amazon Prime on 29 May.
Excerpts from her interview:
Q: Tell us your experience shooting for Ponmagal Vandhal.
A: Being a court-room drama, there are hard-hitting dialogues. Frederick has penned them well and the message in the film is close to my heart. To act with legendary Tamil directors of the 80s like Bhagyaraj, Pandiyarajan, Parthiban, Thiagarajan, and Prathap Pothen has been a huge learning curve. I have dubbed for my role and happy all have come good.
Q: On digital release of Ponmagal Vandhal?
A: Following corona outbreak and lockdown, we didn’t have much choice. There are several big films waiting in the queue for release once cinehalls are reopened. Hence came the idea of direct release on OTT. Also, the platform is the place for content-oriented films. A female-centric film releasing across 200 countries is certainly huge.
Q: Are you keen on doing only women-centric movies?
A: I am content doing content-oriented roles. I choose movies where there is a play in screenplay. It should serve a cause. Be it 36 Vayadhinile, Ratchasi or Ponmagal Vandhaal, I liked the message in it and loved to be part of it.
Q: Are you part of Chandramukhi 2?
A: I haven’t been approached to play the role yet. And if you ask me who can play my character in the sequel, it should be Simran.
Q: Would you like to direct a movie in future?
A: I am fortunate to work with good filmmakers. Even in Ponmagal Vandhal, I am sharing screen space with great directors. But helming a movie is no easy task and it demands more responsibilities. I don’t think I am ready for it.
Q: Any reason working with debutant filmmakers?
A: They come up with strong contents. They have no image trap. Be it Ratchasi or Ponmagal Vandhal, the directors have an idea and execute them without compromise.
