Selvaraghavan is a great actor: Suriya

Suriya is back to do what he does best to Nandha Gopalan Kumaran (NGK) – an intense role – after resisting the criticism that was addressed to him press release, Thaana Serndha Koottam (2018) . The sincerity with which he plays the characters has earned him the love of his fans. With several films in preparation – Kaappaan, Soorarai Pottru, and an untitled film with Siva, Suriya is on the winning track.

The actor Singam knows how to create buzz around a movie. Extracts from a Conversation:

How did NGK go?

I remember watching Kaadhal Kondein (2003) and wanted to work with Selvaraghavan. I'm glad it finally happened. It is a dream that has taken more than 15 years to materialize. NGK is the result of two and a half years of hard work and is close to my heart. Initially, Selvaraghavan came up with three ideas, and when we focused on the last, we decided not to collaborate with Dream Warrior Pictures. In fact, I was surprised at how emotionally he was invested in the character, Nandha Gopalan Kumaran. Not only he is a fantastic director, but also a great actor. It is difficult to find another Selvaraghavan in the industry.

From what we know, NGK looks like a serious political movie.

NGK is a multi-level film, like any other Selvaraghavan project. He has directed several films, but never consciously tries to be different. He evolves with each film and advances with conviction. I must say that working with him has made me love cinema even more. It was a huge learning experience. I believe in energies and I feel that all energies are synchronized in NGK.

What is NGK?

The film revolves around a party worker and how he climbs the political ladder. Selva discussed its effects on NGK's family. I think we have to be honest about our work. That's what Selvaraghavan and I intended to do. When the public looks at NGK, they will understand it better. I hope it will be a turning point in my career.

How did your collaboration with Selvaraghavan happen?

Selva is an uncompromising filmmaker who puts herself in the public's shoes and considers her work critically. On the plateaux, he is totally disciplinary. His style of manufacture is unique and improvised. You never know how he would use your body language in publishing. Generally, I prefer working with administrators with whom I can relate. In this way, it was a pleasure to know Selva. He does not insist that I memorize the dialogues. I told him that no matter what he proposes, I want to be part of it. He brought out the best of me.

You made your film debut in 1997 with Nerrukku Ner.

I want to find new ways to redefine myself as an actor. Thanks to my fans, who came to support me all the time. As you get older, you get a different perspective on many things. You start to see your work from a different point of view. What has grown over the years is the thirst for good roles. I do not take calculated decisions. I am simply my heart. Every film has its own destiny and you never know what will work and what will not work

Are you preparing for your roles?

Sometimes I know it. But for NGK, Selva has made sure that is not the case. I like to play with the moments when the character does not speak. There are so many things happening in silence. There have been many moments like this at NGK. As an actor, it is wonderful to play when you are not given words. Honestly, the preparation does not help much for the Selvaraghavan films. More importantly, I think I have to submit completely to the director. This helps when you get on board without knowing anything as an actor, but by being there like an empty cup, you fill it with the director's vision.