If Antony Varghese is treading on air these days, there is reason for him to do so. Jallikattu, his third movie as an actor is releasing in theatres next week, after the recent world première at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF).
In a terrain where newcomers have to strive hard to get some attention, Antony managed to make a mark as an actor with his looks and charm. After making his debut in Lijo Jose Pellissery’s Angamaly Diaries , Antony acted in Tinu Pappachan’s Swathanthryam Ardharathriyil . Jallikattu has brought him back with his mentor, Lijo.
Antony has been cautious in picking his movies. He says that he has some exciting projects up his sleeve . Edited excerpts from an interview with Friday Review :
You have done just three films since your debut in 2017...
Yes. But, I have quite a number of projects as of now. Currently, I am shooting for Nikhil Premraj’s Anapparambile World Cup , which is a feel-good drama with football as the backdrop . I will then be joining director Tinu Pappachan’s next.
How would you describe Jallikattu?
I believe Lijo chettan’s description is the best and so I will just repeat the exact lines he said about Jallikattu: “The space between man and beast disappears and both become one”.
Antony Varghese in a scene from Jallikattu
What was the response to the film like at TIFF?
The appreciation was overwhelming. For me, it was all surreal and easily the greatest moment in my life. I feel blessed to have had an opportunity to be at such a prestigious stage amidst some of the best names in world cinema.
The première had Malayali viewers occupying half the seats and the rest were filled by a cosmopolitan crowd. I was watching the expressions of the audience throughout the show. It was encouraging to see the international crowd hooked to the film as well.
Tell us about working with Lijo Jose Pellissery?
He is such a down-to-earth person off the sets. While shooting, he wants the actors to be natural. ‘Behave just like how you are at home or when you are with your friends’ is what he always insists on.
Was shooting for Jallikattureally strenuous?
I had an accident during the shoot; my lips were badly bruised and I had to undergo surgery for the injury.
When did you want to become an actor?
Like many youngsters, I wanted to be a part of movies. I started doing short films while studying at Maharaja’s College in Ernakulam as I wanted to be in the limelight on the campus. That, however, was a turning point as I was called for Angamaly Diaries after they saw one of my short films.
You are often known as Pepe, which is the name of your character in Angamaly Diaries ..
I love being called Pepe. Besides my fondness for the character that I had played, it’s the name of one of my favourite footballers, who plays for Portugal.
How has your life changed after Angamaly Diaries ?
I grew up watching stars such as Mammootty and Mohanlal enacting incredible roles. To see myself on the screen was truly fabulous. I now travel a lot as an actor and that is fantastic. It is imperative for an actor to learn about various cultures and to meet people. Travelling helps in that process.
What was it like turning an action hero in Swathanthryam Ardharathriyil?
I performed as I was told to by the director. I always try to maintain the same level of excitement and energy that I had during my debut in every new venture that I am in.
Are you making your debut in Tamil as the villain in Vijay’s next directed by Lokesh Kanagaraj, as some reports suggest?
(Laughs) I am not commenting on it right now.
What is your process of choosing a script at this point of time?
All I think of is to opt for good movies that I can do justice to.
