One of the hottest actors in Malayalam cinema is the Italian sounding handsome hunk from Iranjalakuda (near Thrissur), Tovino Thomas. He started out in supporting roles but impressed with films like Guppy, Godha, Mayanadhi, Forensic and now Kala. He has half a dozen films on the floor, including the superhero movie Minal Murali, whose post theatrical OTT rights have gone for a record price. Excerpts from an interview with Sridhar Pillai:
You are a part of the new wave in Malayalam cinema, willing to do different kind of films. What made you accept an anti-hero role in Kala? Also, you have not played safe by choosing romantic lead roles. Why?
I want to break the predictable image of a mainstream actor in Malayalam films, though it’s not going to be easy. I did Kala, which many told me was risky. It went on to take a fabulous opening in theatres and later became a cult film on OTT.
As an actor I want to experiment with all genres. Today, a commercially viable actor should not have an established image. You should be flexible, as the very concept of stardom has changed. The characters you play determine your star power, that’s why I try my best not to be typecast.
How do you see the change that’s now happening in Malayalam cinema?
Earlier, we used to make films for audiences in Kerala and a few places where Malayalam films used to release—in metros and in the Gulf market. These shows were mostly weekend early morning shows in single screens and, recently, in the smallest screens in multiplexes. All that has changed with advent of OTT, which has resulted in brand new, non-Malayali viewers. Today, I get a lot of fan mail from audiences outside of Kerala. Offers are also pouring in from other film industries. I think we are in for a boom period and I’m certain that theatrical releases and OTTs will grow together.
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