From ‘June’ to ‘RDX’: Actor Harisankar feels lucky to be part of hit films

Actor Harisankar Rajendran, who played the receptionist in the hit web-series ‘Kerala Crime Files’ is overjoyed by the success of ‘RDX’, a family action drama that is making waves in the Mollywood box office. Harisankar who played Anas, one of the villains in the film starring Antony Varghese, Shane Nigam and Neeraj Madhav, opens up about his experience of working with leading action choreographer Anbariv, and the rigorous diet he followed to play his part in the movie.

You were involved in two back-to-back successful projects. How do you see that?

‘June’ directed by Ahammed Khabeer was my first film. Then ‘RDX’ happened. ‘Kerala Crime Files’ was filmed in between. All these films were stepping stones in my career that helped me grow as an actor. Though people watched me in ‘June’, many have started recognising me post ‘Kerala Crime Files’. After ‘RDX’, I am receiving a lot of acceptance.

How did ‘RDX’ happen?

I had worked with Nahaz Hidayath, the director of ‘RDX’ for another film. Though the film did not materialise, I was approached by him for ‘RDX’ based on my previous experience working with him. That’s when I received a call to play the role of a receptionist in ‘Kerala Crime Files’. When Nahaz briefed me about my character in ‘RDX’, I didn’t realise it would be a big film. I was both nervous and excited on learning that hit stunt choreographers like Anbariv was involved with the project.

How was it working with the team?

The story demanded plenty of action though it is a family drama. I played Anas, who is a member of the opposite gang. He was always locking horns with Robert, Dony and Xavier. I went into the sets as a novice with no experience doing action films. But I am grateful that I got to learn the ropes from the best in the industry. Anbariv (Anbumani and Arivumani) who worked in hit films like ‘Vikram’ were both tough yet encouraging on the sets. I remember we had to retake one action scene 13 times to attain perfection. Initially, I didn’t get it right, but once we wrapped up the shoot, they appreciated me publicly and that was so inspiring.

Your experience working with Antony, Neeraj and Shane?

I had several combination scenes with all the three actors, who were all cooperative. They also perform and emote in different ways, which was a huge learning experience. Shane Nigam is someone who learned the action sequences for this film, while Antony is already an action star. Neeraj had some nunchuck tricks down his sleeve.

Apart from the action scenes, did you have to undergo any other preparation for your role?

‘RDX’ is set in two time periods. I am a local tournament cricket player in the film. I was supposed to look extra thin for my role set in the 1990s. Since there was no much time left, I opted for a water-restriction diet, which gave me results in a very short time. I won’t advice this to anyone since it is not healthy nor is it recommended by any doctor.

One of the scenes involving you in ‘Crime Files’ had gone viral...

Yes, the scene in which I describe the accused person’s facial features to a police man had gone viral. Whenever people see me, they ask me to enact that scene. Though I was given a brief on how to do the scene, I improvised on it. I had anticipated some response for that scene, but not this much.