10 years into cinema, Unni Mukundan is no longer just an actor | Interview

Nobody could once believe that actor Unni Mukindan would one day write and sing for films, direct and produce movies and would become a hot acting sensation in all south Indian languages. But on the completion of 10 years of his successful acting career, things have come full circle for the most enchanting figure in the Malayalam film industry. 

Being 10 years in the film field might not be a very long period in an actor's career. But Unni has learnt many lessons. His innocence and childishness are gone for maturity and dedication. He is now actively involved in the entire film-making process. "I am no longer an actor alone. It took six years for me to understand cinema. But even now I think I have to learn a lot. I have to experiment with more different roles. I am happy about all that I have achieved in my career till date. But I have to take along this learning process with me in the years to come," an elated Unni told Manorama.    

Bhramam role wins accolades

"Prithviraj called me for the movie 'Bhramam'. Raju said the role would be good for me. The good reception for the teaser and trailer of the movie proved it correct. I acted with Raju for the first time. We developed a good rapport during the shooting of the movie. Then he called me for acting in his Mohanlal-starrer directorial venture 'Bro Daddy'. 'Bhramam' will be released on October 7. Then I will join the sets of 'Bro Daddy',' he spelt out his plans. 

Makeover into a South India

"The films in other South Indian languages, of course, have more commercial value. My debut movie was in Tamil. Then I got a good break in Malayalam movies. I did a couple of good Malayalam movies. I did three Telugu movies. Now, a solo action movie in Telugu is on the floors." 

As a producer

Unni wanted to launch his production company five years ago. But it did not take off then as per his plan. The movie planned under the Unni Mukundan Films (UMF) was a Vysakh-directed one. But once the COVID-19 pandemic hit, it could not proceed. Then, his banner started the work of `Meppadiyan' directed by Vishnu Vijayan. The movie is now getting ready for release.

A dietician too

"I am not a professional dietician. But what I have learnt from my experience is shared with others. I am so happy that many times my tips worked wonders among my friends. All other things in life can be achieved easily, except good health. Health, once lost, is hard to get back." 

Directorial passion 

Unni Mukundan is eager to put his signature in every field he works. Film direction has always a passion for him. He hopes to direct a film soon. Directing a superhero movie for children is his dream.

Plenty of offers

His new movie 'Meppadiyan' is set for release. Telugu movie 'Khiladi' is also ready for a big premiere across the south Indian screens. With movies like `Twelfth Man', `Ek Din', Vishnu Mohan's `Pappa', Shafeeq's `Santhosham', Udaya Krishna-Siby K Thomas' `Bruce Lee' in the pipeline, unni Mukundan's unstoppable journey for success continues.