Arvind Swami: Was interested in direction since the ’90s

Tamil actor Arvind Swami discusses turning filmmaker under Mani Ratnam’s guidance as his short film in Navarasa wins praise

In the ever-evolving world of movies, a fresh voice is always welcome. Therein probably lies one of Navarasa’s wins — the Netflix anthology, a mixed bag of hits and misses, has introduced an able filmmaker in Arvind Swami with Roudhram. It was serendipitous that Mani Ratnam, who launched him as an actor in 1991, had a role to play in kicking off his directorial career as well.

Roudhram studies the theme of rage

“I have been interested in direction since the ’90s,” begins the actor-director, proud to have made a start, surrounded by some of the most acclaimed filmmakers in the South Indian film industry. “When Mani sir asked whether I would like to be a part of Navarasa, I asked him if I should come on board as a director or an actor. He left the choice to me.” Having faced the camera for three decades, Swami says he had a fair understanding of direction. “I have worked with so many accomplished directors and technicians over the years. If you have an inclination towards the craft, you will observe, learn and wait for the opportunity to put the knowledge to test.”

The nine stories in the anthology — produced by Ratnam and Jayendra Panchapakesan — study varied human emotions. In telling the tale of a young boy who has been arrested for brutally killing a man, Swami has dissected the emotion of pent-up rage. “I chose anger because I wanted to put forward the emotion in an unconventional way. When the idea came to me, I thought I’ll make a film based on anger if the theme was available.”

Also Read: Netflix announces the release date of the much-awaited Tamil anthology 'Navrasa'

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