Written by: AMALAN
Venkat Prbahu is now on the list of successful directors. Basking in the glory of his first film being such a big hit, we met him.
"When I started work on 'Chennai 600028,' I had confidence that to some extent, my work would be recognized. When we had to release the film just when India had lost the World Cup, I lost even that little bit of confidence.
I was assailed by doubts as to whether people would enjoy such a film when India had faced utter defeat in cricket. Encouraged by friends, we went ahead and released the film. It was god's grace that people came forward to support it so much. I have earned such a good name that you are interviewing me!"
Did your father (Gangai Amaran) comment on the film?
He was very happy. He gave me a pass mark. After Rajini sir came out of the theater, he put his arm on my shoulder and complimented me, "Very different, Venkat!" He wondered how I was able to manage such a script. Bharatiraja sir also liked the film very much. He said, "You have made this film? It is so different. I never dreamt that you would direct so beautifully." Praise from such stalwarts is like winning a big award for me."
You have never been an assistant director, so how did you get the courage to jump directly into direction?
"When my dad used to direct films, I was a playful kid and used to watch the shooting and my father working. After that I went abroad to study. I studied in London for 8 years. I worked part time in a theatre and used to tear ticket foils. That time, many Hollywood films roused my directorial instincts within me. Directors like Steven Spielberg influenced me."
You won't act again?
"When I acted as friend to big heroes, I always wanted to prove my talent. That took the route to direction. Now that I have proved that I have talent for directing, that is what I plan to concentrate on. I have already acted in 'Pooncholai' and 'Vasantham Vandachu.' These films will be released. I have also acted in 'Vazhthukkal.'"
There's news that you are to direct Ajith in a film?
"It's true. But not now. When I acted with him in 'Ji' I used to tell him lots of stories. He used to like them. Now that I have made a name as director, I got the opportunity to direct him in a film. That apart, prominent actors like Dhanush have spoken to me. But my next film will only feature newcomers as well as the cast from 'Chennai 600028.'
What sort of style do you prefer in direction?
"To direct in a variety of styles is a style in itself. Like Sridhar, I want to direct different types of stories, like love, crime and so on. Must also do historicals. I also want to do children subjects like the film 'Goonies' by Steven Spielberg. That's my plan."
Vetrimaran was to direct Dhanush in 'Desiya Nedunchalai 47.' But you are supposed to be directing a film with the same title?
"Vetrimaran also spoke to me about this. In 1998, my friends including Yugendran and I had given the title of 'NH 4' for a story. So, I explained to Vetrimaran that I was the one who had first come up with this title."
These days, stories are made for particular heroes. What about you?
"I am not for that. But there are certain elements that the public expects from mass heroes and the directors should bear in mind that they have the responsibility to also please them. As far as I am concerned, I am all for choosing a hero to suit the story."
Family?
"I have just one wife (laughs!), and a 4 year old daughter Srishivani. A small family will be a prosperous one, so my life is going on fine."
On that positive note, Venkat Prabhu takes leave.
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-01.08.2007
