Chiyaan Vikram highlights his versatile performances, noting that films like Sivaputrudu, Aparichitudu, Nanna, and I showcase his uniqueness as both an actor and a star hero. Known for consistently entertaining audiences, Chiyan Vikram is now bringing a fresh experience with “Thangalaan,” directed by Pa Ranjith and produced by the renowned KE Gnanavel Raja under the Studio Green Films banner, in association with Neelam Productions. The film stars Parvathy Thiruvothu and Malavika Mohanan as the heroines and is set for a grand worldwide theatrical release on the 15th of this month, coinciding with Independence Day. In a recent interview, Chiyaan Vikram shared his insights about the film:
- “Thangalaan is a unique film, much like Sivaputrudu Aparichitudu, Nanna, and I. It is an emotional movie with raw content. Ranjith became deeply immersed in the script. This film does not adhere to traditional movie formulas; Pa. Ranjith did not design songs, fight sequences, or typical blocks like the interval or climax. ‘Thangalaan’ has a life of its own. It’s a different movie where sometimes we shot scenes in a single take and used live sound. This was a beautiful experience for me, as I have never worked with live sound before. I usually alter my voice for each film.”
- “I delivered the same dialogues in this movie, working long hours without rest. We faced and portrayed the hardships of that era in our shooting. This is a film unlike any I’ve done before, and it was particularly challenging. The credit for this goes to our director, Pa. Ranjith, who did not present me with a conventional story. Pa. Ranjith has managed a balanced career, blending commercial and artistic films. He has showcased his unique ideology and specialty as a director. ‘Thangalaan’ will be one of his greatest works.”
- “‘Thangalaan’ immerses the audience in its world. I am grateful to Gnanavel for providing me with such an excellent film. This is our first collaboration, and we look forward to continuing to make movies together. While Bollywood used to dominate discussions nationwide, South Indian films, including those in Telugu, Tamil, and Kannada, are now gaining pan-India popularity. Films like KGF, Baahubali, and RRR have proven this. Director Rajamouli has even demonstrated that we can win an Oscar with RRR. I want to thank him from this platform. In ‘Thangalaan,’ I portrayed two distinct characters.”
- “I took great care to appear natural in these roles. It wouldn’t have been believable for me to have a hero’s physique in a character facing a food shortage. It’s incorrect to claim that Telugu films are not popular in Tamil Nadu. Films in other South Indian languages often outperform Tamil films in terms of box office collections. Baahubali, RRR, KGF, and Kantara were all well-received by Tamil audiences.”
- Thangalaan is a beautifully crafted adventure film. Director Ranjith has created it with his distinctive artistic touch. It is a captivating movie, and I am excited for everyone to watch it. Ranjith has always been a dream director of mine, and I was thrilled when he approached me with Thangalaan. We’ve kept details about the movie under wraps to preserve the element of surprise. The film features adventure, a message, magic, and emotions. I believe this is the best role I have ever had. Gnanavel Raja provided us with complete creative freedom and produced the film. I am grateful to him. Gnanavel Raja aims to showcase the movie on a global stage, not just within India. Our entire team was dedicated to the project, and I am confident you will connect with the content when you see it in theaters. Both Parvathy and Malavika delivered outstanding performances.
- Thangalaan is a story that resonates with people worldwide, not just those from Telugu, Tamil, or Kannada backgrounds. The film highlights gold hunting and features a struggle for freedom, making it difficult to categorize. We all face inconsistencies in our lives, and through this film, director Pa Ranjith expresses his views on these themes. While Sarpatta Parambharai drew us into its story, Thangalaan will also captivate you. There are no elements in this movie that could be considered offensive. Director Pa Ranjith took great care to avoid such issues. “Thangalaan” refers to a tribe, and the initial look of my character set high expectations. When the tribal leader’s appearance is revealed, it will be raw and rustic, but Thangalan encompasses all essential elements.
- It took several hours to get ready for this role, and removing the makeup took at least two hours. We filmed in both cold and hot conditions. When we are passionate about our work, we forget about hunger and sleep, so I focus solely on my performance. While I appreciate awards, the recognition from you, the audience, brings me greater joy. I learned about various tribes, including African tribes, which aided in creating this film. Along with me, all the artists performed scenes in a single take whenever possible, even if it took 30 attempts. Today, movies often lack subtitles, but the reach of Pan India ensures that my work connects with audiences across all languages. I am confident that Thangalaan will surprise you in the theater.
