I’m trying to be as realistic as possible: Radha Mohan

Filmmaker Radha Mohan, who’s known for quality films like Azhagiya Theeye, Mozhi and Abhiyum Naanum, is quite kicked about his next film Uppu Karuvadu starring Karunakaran and Nandita. “The story is about a person who chases his dream and ends up at a fishing hamlet. It’s a comedy script, which, in fact, is something new to me. My strength has always been a realistic feel-good film with a streak of realism that makes the audiences go, ‘This is how real life is!’ with charm and freshness. But I have always wanted to do a complete comedy movie like Uppu Karuvadu. It also has a message that one must not compromise his dreams for small benefits. Actually, I didn't realise that the film had a message till I finished it. But it has come out beautifully, though I have focused more on humour this time,” says Radha Mohan.

Ask him why he chose an unconventional hero like Karunakaran for the male lead, he says it’s because he has seen Karunakaran evolve as an actor. “He plays an aspiring film director. I have watched his films and he’s an extremely good performer. More than a comedian, I see him as an actor. He has an expressive pair of eyes and a powerful voice.”

Talking about Nandita’s role, he says, “I have given shades to the character, but it’s not exactly a dual role. I don’t want to reveal more about that now.” So, why was there a gap between this film and his previous flick Gouravam? He says, “I was supposed to do a bilingual with Prithviraj Sukumaran, but it got shelved. Hence, the delay. I am quite eager to direct Prithviraj again and I wish that happens soon,” he smiles.

Quite renowned for etching out strong women characters in his films, Radha Mohan says Nandita’s role is also one such. “I think characterisation is pretty important in a film’s success. I have never used even one character to fill the space. Every character that comes in my film is important to me. I pay attention to the small details, which makes a movie more enjoyable. I don’t do it consciously. I like showing my women having a mind of their own. In Uppu Karuvadu, MS Bhaskar, Mayilsamy, Kumaravel, Chams also have interesting roles.”

Does he have a dream script? “My long-time dream is to direct a fantasy, but I make films with what I have experienced. The people I met have often become my characters in the film,” he explains.

And what's next for him? “I am writing scripts but I have not finalised any particular script to be made into a proper movie. I would love to direct Kamal Haasan some day. But for that, I need to convince myself with a fantastic script,” he concludes.