In conversation with actor Vikram

Romancing the crown

Not willing to rest on his laurels, actor Vikram keeps
on experimenting and exploring new thrills

With his repertoire of richly layered per¬formances in movies that have been artisti¬cally perfect and commercial¬ly successful, Vikram symbol¬ises celluloid brilliance. True, there is certain amount of dis¬tinctiveness and honesty in the characters this national award winner has essayed brilliantly in Tamil, Telugu, Hindi and Malayalam movies. It’s that stamp of candour that makes Vikram one of the most genuine film stars around. Still basking in the glory of Maniratnam’s Raavan, which was a phenomenal hit in Tam¬il, this versatile actor, who is known for his stellar perfor¬mance in many critically ac¬claimed movies, feels that there is no substitute for per¬severance and hard work.
Be it about his recent visit to Venice to take part in the 67th film festival, lukewarm response to its Hindi version or his hopes about upcoming films, Vikram speaks from the heart.
“The visit to Venice was one of the most memorable experi¬ences Ihave ever had. They screened 'Raavan' at the festi¬val. Iwas curious to see the response of an audience that was mainly European. When the movie was done, they stood up, clapped and started shout¬ing 'Veera back back’. Ihave never felt proud of myself or my film like this!,” he says.
Contrary to popular belief, Raavan is not his Bollywood debut. In fact, he has made his presence felt in the Hindi belt with Aparichit, a remake of his smash hit Tamil film An¬niyan. Isn’t it right time to cash in on Bollywood?
“Iam in no hurry. Iwould love to do movies in all lan¬guages, provided the role is enticing and challenging. If Ige t an 'Apara j i t ' o r a 'Pithamagan' in Hindi, Iwould somehow squeeze in the dates. Iam waiting for a good script in Kannada. Ihave many Kan¬nadiga friends, who worked with me in 'Maja',” he says.
New looks and different roles have always fascinated this actor, who keeps on ex¬perimenting with every con¬ceivable role and broadens the parameters of cinematic ex¬pression.
“At present, Iam essaying a very challenging role of a per¬son afflicted with borderline mental retardation,” he adds.
Vikram is in the opinion that though life seems to be difficult, it gives many oppor¬tunities to score.
“Iam not lucky. Every move and every role of mine has been carefully thought out and essayed. Ihave steadfastly worked on my talents to reach here,” says Vikram, who nur¬tures a dream of wearing the director’s hat soon.
MGR, Jayalalitha, Vijaya¬kanth, Nepoleon, Kushboo... All made it big in politics. So when is Vikram's turn?
“Politics has not fascinated me so far. Iam obsessed with cinema and the day Itire of that and learn how to handle mike and dhothi, its politics for me. By the way, will you vote for me?,” asks the actor with a broad smile.