It's alright to criticise films but respect hard work of makers: Narein

Narein who has played memorable roles in both Malayalam and Tamil films is often touted as a bankable actor. The actor, seen in the latest Malayalam-Tamil bilingual movie ‘Adrishyam’, in a candid chat speaks about the movie and also his career.

What is ‘Adrishyam’ all about?

‘Adrihsyam’ is an investigative thriller. A person gets kidnapped and the plot is about the investigation that follows. However, unlike the usual hero-villain conflict, the screenplay gives significance to all six characters. The movie has lots suspense elements too.

‘Adrishyam’ was simultaneously filmed in Malayalam and Tamil…

Personally, I am not interested in bilingual movies which are shot simultaneously. The social and cultural backgrounds of both languages would be different. So, the same plot or scenes may not be received in a similar way, in two different languages. But, the theme that is discussed in ‘Adrishyam’ might not have that problem.

Why did you take a break from Malayalam cinema?

It was not intentional. Many movies that I had committed to didn’t happen at the right time. Besides, a few films that were filmed during the pandemic period are yet to be released. Moreover, I was busy in Tamil when a new generation trend had begun in Malayalam cinema. Now, I have decided to concentrate more on Malayalam cinema. ‘Adrishyam’ too is a part of that decision.

Both commercial and parallel cinemas are received well in Tamil. Do you think Malayalam hasn’t reached such a stage?

I have, in fact, felt the opposite. If you consider the number of Tamil films that are released in theatres, only a handful of films from the parallel movie category get noticed. The presence of superstars is mandatory in all other movies that become successful in the theatres. However, in Malayalam, films that do not boast of a stellar star cast or overwhelming budget get noticed.

‘Red Rain’ in which you played the lead role was one of the first science fiction movies in Malayalam…

I have often felt that ‘Red Rain’ was released in the wrong era. That movie might have been a success, had it been released now. Graphics played a major role in it. However, many graphic sequences that the screenplay demanded couldn’t be done, due to many reasons. All these had backfired. I feel happy when I hear that people actually remember the movie.

Should there be any parameters to criticise a movie?

There is nothing wrong with writing a negative review about a bad movie. But, people must respect the hard work and the struggles of the director and the producer of that movie. No one makes a movie with the notion that it is going to be terrible.

Future projects

The Tamil movie ‘Kural’ directed by Sugeeth will be released soon. I have essayed a unique role in that film. I am currently acting in Jude Anthany’s ‘2018’, ‘Iraivan’ starring Jayam Ravi in the lead role and ‘Kaithi 2’.