Top actresses refused to be my heroine: Joju George

Actor Joju George who impressed the Malayali film audience with his incredible acting prowess is all set to thrill them by starring in a lead role for the first time through the movie ‘Joseph’. The actor who began his career as a junior artiste made his way to the top through sheer hard work and dedication. The actor even revealed that many top actresses had said ‘no’ to play the female lead in the movie as they were reluctant to act opposite him. However, Joju is happy that two new actresses got opportunities because of that. Joju gets candid about his role in ‘Joseph’ and also about his future plans.

How was your journey from a junior artiste to a lead actor?

I can only say that it was through God’s incredible grace that I could reach here. M Padmakumar was quite popular as an associate director even when I began my stint as a junior artiste. I consider it extremely lucky to have gained the opportunity to play the lead role in his movie. I had also acted in the lead role in the movie ‘Chola’ directed by award-winning film maker Sanalkumar Sasidharan. That movie too was really an amazing learning experience. I think that it is extremely stressful to essay a lead role in a movie. All eyes would be on us, and I am really scared of that. There aren’t any such problems when we concentrate on character roles.

How did you land the role in 'Joseph'? Was there any challenges?

'Joseph' is a project that has been around me for some time. When screen writer Shahi Kabeer narrated the story, I was a bit intimidated by it. It is an amazing thriller. However, the project didn’t take off due to various reasons. Many leading actors and actresses refused to act in the movie in which I was the hero. Though I was a little upset in the beginning, I am happy that many talented new artists got an opportunity because of that.

How excited are you about 'Joseph'?

The most important thing is that I was able to play the lead for the first time in a movie directed by Padmakumar, whom I respect a lot. Another interesting fact is that my real name is Joseph. It indeed is exciting to essay the title character in a movie which has my own name. ‘Joseph’ deals with a topic that has great social relevance now. It has significantly helped the movie that a real policeman has prepared the script.

You have become a hero now and is already a producer. When do you plan to direct a movie?

I have no such plans as of now. I don’t think I have the capacity to take such a huge amount of stress. Besides, I am not done with acting.