Director Bala and Kamal Haasan motivate Vivek

Popular actor and comedian, Vivek, who was last seen in Suriya’s 'Singham II', will don the role of the protagonist in the upcoming film, 'Naandhaan Bala'. The flick is directed by the debutant Kannan, a former associate of maverick filmmaker Bala.

“I carry off the role of a priest, who works in a Perumal temple. The film is about the inexplicable relationship between the priest and a thug. I am not going to manage the comedy element of the film, I will be seen in a serious role. But the film is humorous and provides a social message too,” says Vivek.

The Padma Shri awardee reveals that comedians usually hesitate to accept roles that demand that they be serious. “But I was motivated by director Bala and Ulaganayagan Kamal Haasan to try something other than comedy,” he says. “Kamal sir told me that I had spent 25 years of my cinema career on comedy and that it was time for me to explore other roles too,” adds Vivek. The actor believes that the film will make every comedy artist feel proud as it will make them understand the integral part that they play in everybody’s life. “I was hesitant when director Kannan approached me for this role. Generally, comedians are doubtful about doing serious roles. Even if they want to, they are unsure of how far their fans will accept it. But I’m glad that this film has helped me overcome that apprehension,” says Vivek.