KOCHI: In a candid interview with Sai Kiran, Assistant Editor at The Times of India, Malayalam superstar Mohanlal has addressed the persistent question regarding his perceived reluctance to work with new filmmakers, contrasting his approach with that of his contemporary, Mammootty.
Responding to the observation that Mammootty is known for experimenting with newcomers while he is seen as “reluctant,” Mohanlal refuted the notion, citing his own work with debutant directors on films like Thudarum, Rishabha and Bha.Bha.Ba.
”I won’t say that’s completely true. Films like Thudarum, Rishabha and Bha.Bha.Ba. were by new directors. I’ve heard scripts from 40-50 newcomers,” the actor revealed.
However, he firmly stated his own creative requirement: “I need convincing answers too. They may believe their script is convincing, but I should also feel it.”
Mohanlal noted that turning down scripts sometimes leads to “hatred” from some filmmakers, which he deemed “unfair.” He humorously concluded his thought with a laugh: “If I can’t choose now, when will I be eligible to choose at my will?”
Respect Across Borders
Mohanlal also touched upon his connections with actors in other film industries. While he watches films when possible, he doesn’t “follow them closely.” He highlighted the mutual respect he shares with veteran artists, citing an example with Bollywood legend Amitabh Bachchan.
”For example, when Amitabhbji wanted to watch Vanaprastham, I sent him a CD. Next day he called and asked admiringly, ‘Lal, how can you do such a role!’ Maybe he felt that if he were in my place, he couldn’t have done it. It’s vice versa too,” he shared.
He explained that his experiences working with legendary actors like Thikkurissi Sukumaran Nair have dissolved any inhibition when meeting icons like Sivaji Ganesan. “It’s about mutual respect. If I stayed with them for a year, maybe they’d change their opinion about me (laughs).”
