Mollywood sensation Unni Mukundan, celebrated for his stellar performance in the action-packed hit ‘Malikappuram,’ is strategically navigating his script choices. In an exclusive interview with ETimes, the versatile actor shared insights into his Bollywood aspirations, offered perspectives on Sandeep Vanga Reddy’s ‘Animal,’ and more.
Unni Mukundan, who has made a mark in Malayalam, Telugu, and Tamil cinema, hinted at an imminent entry into Hindi films, expressing eagerness for diverse roles that resonate with both commercial success and critical acclaim. He emphasized the importance of exploring various facets as an actor and reaching a wider audience through engaging and entertaining films.
The actor-producer disclosed a wish list featuring directors such as Sandeep Vanga Reddy, SS Rajamouli, Rajkumar Hirani, and Sanjay Gupta. Mukundan appreciates the fresh perspectives that new-generation directors bring while valuing the experience and dedication of seasoned filmmakers.
Reflecting on ‘Animal,’ directed by Sandeep Vanga Reddy, Mukundan commended the film’s approach to character development and the impactful portrayal of actors like Bobby Deol. He dismissed the idea of a set grammar for art, emphasizing the dynamic nature of cinema as a form of entertainment.
Having lived in Gujarat and being fluent in Hindi and Gujarati, Mukundan shared insights into his language proficiency. He underscored the importance of trust in content, script focus, and alignment of vibes while choosing projects as an actor and producer.
Addressing the evolving film industry landscape, Mukundan acknowledged the rise of audiences preferring home-viewing on OTT platforms. He outlined plans to release films in multiple languages to cater to diverse viewership preferences.
When asked about the perception of cinema influencing society voyeuristically, Mukundan disagreed, emphasizing the limited number of cinephiles compared to the overall population. He encouraged constructive criticism and appreciated diverse interests in science, automobiles, and business.
Comparing his experiences working with Mammootty and Dulquer Salmaan, Mukundan praised both actors’ professionalism and work ethic. He highlighted the importance of sustained effort and professional conduct for actors to enhance their craft.
Looking ahead, Unni Mukundan teased upcoming projects, including ‘Get Set Baby,’ where he portrays an IVF doctor, and ‘Marco,’ an action-packed film. He expressed enthusiasm for the cross-pollination of actors across different industries, envisioning a united Indian film industry that competes globally and surpasses Hollywood’s influence.
