Actor Soori on evolution as lead actor: Will do socially responsible films from now

India Today

15-05-2025

Actor Soori's growth in the Tamil film industry screams hard work.From working behind the scenes and doing odd jobs on film sets to becoming one of the leading comedians and headlining director Vetri Maaran's 'Viduthalai' films, his meteoric rise is one for the books. With his upcoming film, 'Maaman', he has also doubled up as a writer.After 'Viduthalai's success, he followed it up with 'Kottukkaali' and 'Garudan'. Soori is now upbeat about 'Maaman', which is intended to leave audiences emotional when watching the family entertainer. With 'Maaman' all set for release, actor Soori exclusively spoke in detail with India Today Digital about his career, the film and the responsibilities that come with the tag 'lead actor'.advertisementQ: When did you realise that you had a writer in you?
A: Each one of us has a story in us. Likewise, my life has many stories. 'Viduthalai' gave me a break and I followed it up with 'Kottukaali' and 'Garudan'. The scripts that were offered to me had similar storylines. I felt I needed to branch out and wanted to do a family entertainer. I started listening to stories, and I managed to meet director Prashanth Pandiraj, who made 'Vilangu'. He narrated two stories and I liked them both, but felt it was quite removed from my personality.After a few rounds of talks, my friend suggested that I share my story with Prashanth. I was initially hesitant thinking if a director would do a story written by me. Then, when I narrated 'Maaman's' story, he was in as well. He told me that 'Maaman' is a perfect script for me.advertisementQ: How did the story writing process come to you?A: Maaman is a story about a maternal uncle and his nephew. Also, it explores the relationship between a brother and sister and a couple as well. I used to think of stories that I read and come across. I have several stories in my bank that suit my image. I feel I am close to a guy who is one in your family. So, the stories that I have will cater to my image. The stories come to me naturally – while going to the shooting spot or in between shots.I have a biopic about my father and I believe in it the most. I've narrated the film to many directors, and I am hoping that I'll be able to fulfil it. Q: Do you want to do these stories or are you willing to give them to other actors?A: No, no, I don't have the idea of giving my scripts to any other actors. These are the stories that I envisioned for myself. Hence, they are more suited to me, my market and my image.Q: Do you have directorial dreams?A: Right now, there are people who write stories for me. So, I don't have dreams of becoming a director now. Also, I need to take care of myself, physically and mentally, to be able to perform to the best of my abilities.advertisementQ: 'Maaman' seems to be a heartwarming family entertainer.A: Maaman is a story that appeals to everyone. In fact, I dedicate the film to all the people I know. I did the film thinking of certain milestones. There are people that I know who are separated and if they get back with each other after watching this film, I'd feel achieved. If they get back, I will share the happiness with them.Q: After 'Viduthalai,' has the process of selecting scripts changed?A: When I was a comedian, I did prove myself in the characters that I received. I was an entertainer and actor. Now, after becoming a lead hero, I feel more responsible. I want to do socially responsible films. Irrespective of its performance, I have certain responsibilities. I have also developed certain rules for myself. I am careful about not being questioned for my choices. I don't want to explain or jot down the character traits that I won't display in my roles. If there's something in the script, I request my director to remove it. It all circles down to the responsibility I hold to the job.advertisementQ: Does this mean you will not do comedian roles hereafter?A: I cannot pick stories like before. I will analyse if the role that I am being offered has enough scope and importance. I am open to doing dual hero subjects as well, provided the character does justice to the story. Even if my friends call me, I cannot sign the film considering their friendship. I am at a point in my career where I will have to decide based on my character. If I do that, my account balance might get filled, but it won't add to my filmography and will be an injustice to the producers who put their money on me.Soori also spoke highly of his upcoming film, 'Mandaadi'. 'I thought I put in my maximum effort for Vetri Maaran's 'Viduthalai'. But, this film will surpass that effort. It is my biggest film, in terms of budget. Like Jallikattu, 'Mandaadi' is about a risky sport, akin to sailing. Not much is known about this sport and my film will shed light on it.'Meanwhile, 'Maaman' will release in theatres on May 16.