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By:
Amalan
The Telugu film 'Varsham' had done well in Andhra. When SPB's son SPB Charan bought the rights for the Tamil version, people waited eagerly to see who the director would be.
Luck chose Rajkumar. Earlier an associate director under Charan, he has made Varsham rain 'Mazhai' in Tamil. Relaxed after the release of the film, Rajkumar consented to an interview with us.
Very fair, always wearing elegant glasses, he looks like the typical rich friend of a Tamil film hero.
Why did you choose a re-make for your directorial debut?
I did not go seeking for it. It just so happened, that's all. When I tried to earn a promotion of becoming a director, I got this opportunity. I agreed since this film was a raging success in Telugu.
On what basis were you chosen to be the director?
I was given the opportunity only after they enquired about me from various sources. When I first met editor Mohan, he asked me how he could be so sure that I would do a good job of the direction. "If it is telling a story, I can narrate, if it is dialogues, I can show by writing, if it is acting skills, I can show by acting, but if it direction, I can only show it by directing. So you will have to put your trust in me," I said. He was impressed with my response and immediately appointed me as the director.
How can you prove your talent in a re-make film? Apart from saying action or cut, what is your special input?
A re-make is not as easy as you think it is. This reminds me of what Mohan sir said.
"This is like the train running on its tracks. You could change the train, but not the tracks. If you do attempt to change it, it will be a disaster". Similarly, a re-make is no ordinary matter.
We have added a few scenes, also made a few corrections and incorporated some things that would appeal to the Tamil public. After the film was completed, SPB Charan, hero Ravi and editor Mohan complimented me on my directorial abilities. We spent 92 days of shooting for 'Mazhai.' Except for the action scenes, I completed the rest of the film in 32 days!
Did your guru Charan see the film?
Yes. Charan sir and Vairamuthu sir watched the film and told me 'Mazhai' was superior to 'Varsham.' Those who have watched both films will know what changes I have made in 'Mazhai.'
In the climax, we shot the burning of the Ravana cut-out in just one take. It was a little scary before shooting that scene. When the 62 foot high cut-out falls in a burning heap, there were many co-actors gathered around it. Praying that no harm would come to anyone, we even had fire service vans ready at the time of shooting that scene.
Isn't it a little extreme to show 'Jayam' Ravi fighting by holding a bullock cart aloft?
Just like you and the rasikas, I also thought about it before picturising that scene. I told stunt master Peter Hein that the scene would look a bit extreme and it would be better to show Ravi twirling the bullock cart wheel instead. But Peter said it can be done and he himself lifted the cart and twirled it around! He said, "If I can do it single handed, why can't a powerful hero do it too?" So, I agreed to it, but the result is just as I feared.
You were assistant to which directors?
I assisted Vasanth sir from 'Aasai' to 'Rhythm.' I have worked with Charan sir till 'Vasool Raja.'
From which place did you come to Chennai?
I am not one of those who came to Madras by bus or train. I am a typical Madrasi. I am a product of the Nandanam Arts College.
What type of director would you classify yourself as?
I wish to be recognized as a commercial director. Since heroes and producers have more faith in commercial films, I think I will stick to that genre. I have a super film lined up after 'Mazhai.' On seeing it, you will understand my full capabilities. Like the prominent directors of today, it will rain in my garden too in future.
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-06.10.2005
