There is nepotism to some extent in the south film industry. But there is no groupism.They work hard. I like this industry. I’m here now and not going to leave anytime soon and I want to do more movies in South, said Kangana Ranaut.
Speaking at the trailer launch of her magnum opus Thalaivi, a biopic on former Chief Minister J Jayalalithaa, Kangana, said, ‘Jayalalithaa madam was a legend and an inspiring icon. I wanted to make sure that the casting doesnāt go wrong so the entire film is ruined, but the makers were really supportive and encouraging. Arvind Swami is bundle of joy and he is infectious. One thing that I have noticed in South cinema is that they are very genuine and donāt treat anyone like outsiders. I was often intimidated on the sets by Aravind Swami as he thoroughly remained inside the character. Director Vijay sir is such an amazing person. First time, I got to know him, it was really lovely. He is such a humble and good-hearted person. He made me feel so much blessed and was very much appreciating me. He made me feel and aware about my talents. This is one lifetime opportunity working with such a great team and it will be a cherishing experience for me forever.’
Arvind Swami, who plays MGR in the film, said, ‘Getting the film travel through the pandemic phase and getting it finally released for a grand worldwide release on April 23 evokes an emotional feel in me. I thank director Vijay sir for bringing together so many great talents together. if not for the support of Vijay sir and the confidence he gave me, it would have been impossible for me to do this character. An actor alone cannot get the role or film hit success, but it involves the hard work of every member in the crew. The exciting part about the film is that working with great actors like Kangana Ranaut. I am working with Madhu Bala after many years. My journey with Nasser sir goes 30 years back in time. Working with Thambi Ramaiah sir in Thani Oruvan was an amazing experience.’
Director Vijay, said, ‘A couple of years ago, I was approached by Vishnu sir and Brindha mam for making a film based on Jayalalithaa. It involved lots of amazing experience and it was like going back to school like taking notes every day for inputs. When I initially approached Aravind Swami sir, he was reluctant and didnāt want to take it up as he told that he hadnāt done any such movies based on real life characters before. He is the backbone of this film. GV Prakash Kumar has always given the best music for my movies and he had one a fabulous job in this movie. His music both songs and BGM have added more essence to this movie. Madan Karky took more efforts and took self interest in doing lots of research for the sake of this film. Kangana Ranaut has just nailed it. We were in awe of her performance in every scene. She is a legend and has already four National awards. Itās a pleasure working with such an amazing person. Her knowledge about cinema and screenwriting is brilliant. She will know whatās the next scene even before narrating it to her. It is because, she emotionally got attached to the film and her character. She had to go through excruciating phase by shedding down and gain lots of weight simultaneously.’
Producer Vishnu Induri and music composer GV Prakash also spoke.