Kalamkaval actor Mammootty on not sticking to an image: I don’t want to…

Malayalam superstar Mammootty speaks about his pursuit as an actor, and how he goes about deciding projects that his banner should back, like Kalamkaval, which releases on December 5

Mammootty

One aspect about Malayalam superstar Mammootty’s filmography in recent years that is glaringly noticeable is his choice of films and roles that have been stark departures from the routine. Even when playing the lead in films, he’s embraced the greyness of characters and how, like, for instance, in films like Puzhu, Rorschach, Brahmayugam and, now Kalamkaval. Where does this courage to constantly ‘break his image’ come from? “It’s not about courage; it is about the desire as an actor. Every artiste would want to do characters like that. I don’t want to ignore the actor in me. He needs to be in a proper place and needs to be fed,” said Mammootty, in a special conversation about his next release, Kalamkaval.

Mammootty about nurturing the artiste in him

The actor asserts that his film career has always been about nurturing the artiste in him. Stardom and popularity came as an offshoot of that pursuit. While Mammootty’s more recent acting gigs are often highlighted for their sheer variety, he adds that his characters in, say, Soorya Manasam, Mrigaya or even Pranchiyettan and the Saint are all a part of this journey. Having said that, Mammootty adds that the decisions to do these characters came from a self-belief that he could pull them off and do justice to it.

Kalamkaval is the 7th home production for the superstar. How does he go about deciding the films that he should back? “By and large, the films that I produce are the ones that I cannot do with another producer. The commercial success of these subjects cannot be predicted. Even if they have commercial aspects, they need to stand out, like, for instance, Rorschach, Kannur Squad, or even Turbo,” he reasons, adding, “Stories should never be written keeping me in mind, because then I become the character. The focus should only be on the character and not the actor, only then can you make films like Kalamkaval.”

Also read: Mammootty: My character in Kalamkaval is not a good soul

With Kalamkaval set for release on December 5, what’s Mammootty’s final word to audiences? “Each and every person who comes to watch a movie in a theatre comes with a certain expectation, most of which could be differing in nature. It may not satisfy everyone’s expectations; there are very few films that appeal to all audiences, so it is a given that some will like it and some won’t. Kalamkaval is one such film; I cannot insist that everyone should like it. But I hope that audiences will approach it with a positive mindset that it maybe good," he wraps up.

Also Read: Kalamkaval trailer: Mammootty builds a sense of dread by asking, "What gives you the pleasure of killing?"

FAQs

Q. Who is the villain in Vinayakan film, Kalamkaval?

A. The villain in the Vinayakan movie Kalamkaval is said to be played by Mammootty.

Q. What is Mammootty suffering from?

A. Mammootty is suffering from health issues. Some reports claim he is suffering from cancer, though his team has dismissed this as rumours. Industry colleagues have confirmed that he has recovered and will return to his acting commitments soon.

Q. Has Kalamkaval's release been postponed?

A. Yes, Kalamkaval's theatrical release was postponed to December 5.

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