Producers need to back ambitious directors'

VER his 18-year-long career in the industry, Naveen Chandra has carved a niche for himself with varying films like Andala Rakshasi, Ammu, and Month of Madhu, among others.

- BH HARSH

VER his 18-year-long career in the industry, Naveen Chandra has carved a niche for himself with varying films like Andala Rakshasi, Ammu, and Month of Madhu, among others. However, for Naveen, 2024 has been all about thrills—quite literally. His upcoming film, Show Time, directed by Madhan Dhakshinamoorthy, is his fourth thriller film in a row, following 28 Degree Celsius, Blind Spot, and Eleven. It's a pure coincidence, he clarifies, adding, "I know people must think that I am doing too many thrillers, but I think this is the right time for this film, to showcase another part of me as an actor where I am trying to make you laugh while doing something familiar." The actor mentions how the element of humor sets Show Time apart, also talking about other distinct features of the film. Naveen adds, "Usually, thrillers mean more of murders, brutality, and cuss words. There is none of that here."

The actor talks at length about his physical preparation for Show Time, where the story unfolds within a span of 15 hours. He says, "When the film starts, I will look fit and relaxed. However, as the tension-inducing incident happens, that fatigue in him starts showing. Your body develops neerasam (weakness). I showed it in my physicality, and my director-DOP duo ensured every nuance came out very well."

Naveen further elaborates on these nuances, adding, "When a situation is going down, your brain becomes active and you lose focus on rest. Until you get rid of it, you can't even think about eating. I tried to capture that state of mind."