After an interaction with actor-director Cheran on Monday, students of Bishop Heber College could understand better their potential to transform society.
“I firmly believe that films can bring about a social change. I have been making films keeping this in mind. Students can make things happen,” he said at the session organised by the Business Management Association of the college.
According to Mr. Cheran, his latest release, Pokkisham, was not all about love. “It speaks about women’s rights.” The director said he anticipated reviews projecting the film as slow and one that is bereft of a comedy track.
“A separate comedy track is not a healthy trend in cinema,” he said, citing Hollywood classics. The ‘feel’ would have been lost in Pokkisham had it been paced fast, he felt.
Cheran acknowledged that the film is a moderate success. “The cine halls where the film is being screened are not filled. But I am happy that the movie has earned the appreciation of those who have watched it. The fan feedback is proof enough.”
Answering a student, Mr. Cheran said that his fans came to theatres only 10 days after the film’s release and by when the movie’s success usually gets determined. “There are people who love my movies and I have a fan following. But I neither have nor encourage fan clubs. These days, the initial response to a film matters the most.”
He spoke about the amount of hard work put in by the art team to create the ambience of the 1970s in the film and commended the work of art director Vairabalan and cinematographer Rajesh Yadav.
“Padmapriya as Nadira has lived the character. Other artistes too have done a good job. The film was shot in 145 days,” he added.
Do you take extra care before deciding the title of your movies? “Title is very important as it is the first attraction for the audience. I discuss a lot before choosing the title. I also give equal importance to the names of characters. Be it Senthil of Autograph or Ramalingam of Thavamai Thavamirundhu, they gelled well with the audience,” he replied.
“I consider each and every happening in my life as an experience. So is this interaction session. I deem it a chance to analyse and know what youngsters expect of my films,” he wrapped up.
Rajya Sabha member ‘Tiruchi’ N. Siva said that directors like Mr. Cheran belonged to a rare tribe and audience should encourage his efforts to the core.
Ms. Padmapriya, Principal M. Marcus Diepen Boominathan and Heber Institute of Management Studies Head Michael David Premkumar were present on the occasion.
