'I came into cinema expecting the unexpected'

Actor Arav talks about his foray into the film industry, working with Magizh Thirumeni again in Vidaamuyarchi, his reverence for Ajith's commitment, and more

- SREEJITH MULLAPPILLY

A CTOR Arav, who stars in a prominent role in the recent action thriller Vidaamuyarchi alongside Ajith Kumar, has had an interest in cinema since childhood and initially aspired to be a director. Reminiscing about his early days, he says, "Getting into acting, like the film's title Vidaamuyarchi suggests, requires perseverance. Since I did not know how to break into the industry, I thought directing would be a more accessible entry point. My experience in school dramas, which I acted in, wrote, and directed, fuelled this interest in shaping scenes and performances." He then adds, "I approached directors to work under them as an assistant, but everyone suggested that I become an actor instead.

Then, I got some small chances in films. Soon, I earned a big break through Bigg Boss Tamil, eventually leading to hero and villain roles." Speaking of villains, Arav's first major role before Vidaamuyarchi came in Magizh Thirumeni's thriller Kalaga Thalaivan (2022), opposite Udhayanidhi Stalin. On the evolution of his equation with the filmmaker from then to now, Arav says, "I had such faith in him that I didn't even read the Vidaamuyarchi script or ask about my character." The actor continues, "Magizh sir is a perfectionist.