He is the only South Indian actor who has inspired several Bollywood actors with his charm, persona and acting capabilities. Back home in Chennai, he is considered the God of Acting. He is the one and only Kamal Haasan who takes out some time from his busy schedule and talks to Faisal Saif.
Don’t you think the second part of Vishwaroopam is coming out very soon? Or do you plan to cash in on the publicity from part one?
I don’t make films for publicity. I want them to be enjoyed by my audience. Generally, people wait for a year and then decide on a film’s sequel. But I was sure from the beginning that I would bring out a second part. Vishwaroopam 2 is not my arrogance. Rather it is my confidence.
Did you write the sequel while you were writing Vishwaroopam?
I had written the film in two parts and wanted to tell my audience the complete story. We decided to do it in two parts so that both parts work individually.
What is Vishwaroopam 2 all about?
I am aware of the fact that my first film went through many hurdles as people created issues without watching it. The second part is both a sequel and prequel and will focus on the romantic and emotional aspect. It will also be technologically more advanced. While watching Vishwaroopam, you will feel a certain curiosity about some characters in the film. We thought we’d be able to solve that curiosity with a second serving.
How do you plan to market the sequel?
Marketing is as crucial and difficult as film-making, if not more. I want someone who can do that properly, otherwise I can’t make films. Some people took advantage of the situation during Vishwaroopam and made lots of money, and I’m glad about that.
Are you planning to make other films in Bollywood after Vishwaroopam?
We are ready with many scripts and are looking for the right kind of producers who can take the films up north. I can’t take risks all the time.
Looking at the on-going ‘remake’ trend in Bollywood, have you thought of remaking your classic Ek Duuje Ke Liye?
We did try making a sequel, but it never came to North India. Now I’m old and can’t play the role again. K. Balachander who is my mentor didn’t want to tamper with the original, but I thought of a sequel. We made it in Tamil, but it never got made in Hindi. Now, it’s too late.