In an interview with OTTplay, Chatha Pacha star Vishak Nair discussed his upcoming films and emphasizes the importance of audience reception in a film's success.

Last Updated: 08.30 AM, Feb 25, 2026
Young actor Vishak Nair is busy with several projects in different languages. Each of his flicks undoubtedly reveals his versatility in handling any part with ease. Chatha Pacha, his most recent film, is currently available for streaming on Netflix.
Our last conversation took place before to the release of the Hindi movie Emergency. Since then, what has changed?
A lot has changed in my opinion. Above all, I believe that the audience's perception has changed. My image as "Kuppi" is gradually fading away, particularly in light of the kind of movies I am being offered now. I am beginning to see the kinds of stories and characters that I have always desired for. I got what I wanted from Emergency. My performance in it was discussed by national critics or the media. After that, Officer On Duty came, which undoubtedly changed the course of my career.
Have you begun to grasp the subtleties of this industry as an actor?
Yes, I do believe that we have little control over many issues. I am beginning to feel a little more at ease with that now. As performers, we are influenced by several outside forces. However, supply and demand still exist and is important. I believe that how you portray yourself matters a lot. You could do anything when we first started. However, I believe the times have changed. We are now more picky, and it would be a little harder if we couldn't live up to expectations. After ten years and twenty-four films, I still feel like my career has just started.
Your filmography includes several underappreciated works, such as Exit and Footage. At some time, did you feel upset that they didn't receive the recognition they deserved?
I was especially nervous of Exit since the performance that was expected of me was quite high. However, for reasons that are again outside of my control, the movie didn't perform as we had hoped. The movie broke even despite having a total of fifteen showings throughout Kerala. As an actor, I had put in a lot of efforts in this role, which is why it upset me even more. I really gave the theatre owners a call and asked them to host special shows for critics and others.
Footage was a very experimental film. We were aware that it wasn't to everyone's taste when we were creating it. It is a hit-or-miss situation. It was not the case with Exit as it took a lot of work. However, there is still a tiny voice in the back of my mind that says, "That movie's journey is not over." It hasn't come out on OTT. Who knows? Maybe it will get the recognition it merits in the future.
Also Read: Chatha Pacha star Vishak Nair: 'I enjoy portraying shady and enigmatic roles' | Exclusive
Given the praise you are getting for portraying Cherian, how special is Chatha Pacha to you?
I was able to use all of my metaphorical and literal muscles in this movie. THe's not written as a one-dimensional character. As a result, there are numerous layers in between each conversation. Additionally, I reunited with some of the people I initially collaborated with, like Roshan Mathew. We have a long-standing relationship, so we feel at ease when we work together. Additionally, I am the type of performer who would prefer to add a little bit more if instructed to perform exactly ABCD. I was given that space to perform in Chatha Pacha. It also has to do with trust you have in the director and vice versa.
Is there a concern now about being put into only negative roles?
No. In terms of the writing, I envision more to any character in the script that humanizes that person. Fortunately, I am not playing a negative part in any of the upcoming films that I commited. In fact, I recently signed a contract for a romantic comedy that I am really looking forward to. However, it is a rom-com with a multiverse theme in its backdrop. I enjoy watching movies like that but I need something quirky when it comes to me working in such a genre. Even though I love Premalu, I wouldn't do one. It's not that they don't think of me; I'm positive that would be less fascinating to me than a movie where the romance is set in a multiverse.
What contributes to becoming a successful actor?
I have no idea. However, I've learned from experience the enthusiasm is important, and as I mentioned before, it doesn't matter if we give it our all right now. A movie succeeds when several outside elements come together, but to put it succinctly, if a film succeeds, the actors in it thrive. The movie should go ahead regardless of how big or small your role is. Therefore, I would prefer to be in more popular movies. I don't want to be a part of award-winning films at this point in my career, even though it could satisfy my creative goals. Therefore, I'm not sure if there is a formula that works for everyone. However, one thing is certain: the film must be a hit among the audience.
Which are your other projects this year?
One is being shot in Malayalam right now. It's one of those films that chronicles the lives of an individual who is between 20 and 40 years old. I can't say much about it, but the character is quite gray and the plot is pretty interesting. Then, two Telugu films have been put on hold and will soon restart filming. Production of a Kannada film started in February. Between March and April, one will be made available in Hindi. Additionally, I'm working on a Netflix series for the Yash Raj banner.
Q. Where to watch Chatha Pacha online?
A. Chatha Pacha is streaming on Netflix.
Q. How is the director of Chatha Pacha related to Mohanlal?
A. Adhvaith Nayar is Mohanlal's nephew. He had also assisted in Jeethu Joseph and Mohanlal's 12th Man, which is streaming on JioHotstar, accessible via OTTplay Premium.
Q. Who is Mammootty playing in Chatha Pacha?
A. The Malayalam megastar is playing a wrestler named Bullet Walter in this action drama, which released on January 22.