Shirish Saravanan, who has debuted as a hero with Metro, the most controversial film in recent times, seems to be a happy man. Though the movie had a delayed release today, he has been receiving accolades from critics for his subdued performance.
“I was asked to underplay the character of a journalist by my director Anand Shankar. I did exactly what he said and today I am seeing the results. Moreover, in Metro, the script is the hero and the entire cast is filled with characters that aid the movie in moving forward”, Shirish says to start our conversation.
So, how did he land the role? “I was studying Visual Communications in Loyola College, when Anand sir visited the college for an event. We met and became instant friends and would discuss many things about cinema. He was working on Metro at that time. Meanwhile, I took acting classes from Kalairani madam, got trained in silambam with Pandian master and dance with Brindha master. One day, I got a call from him when he said that he wanted a fresh face for Metro and invited me for the audition.”
The climax stunt was very challenging, he adds. On working with Bobby Simha he said, “The national awards were announced around the time we started shooting. He was very happy. We got along well and he taught me nuances like 48 frames slow shot etc.”
Interestingly, Shirish gave away his entire salary from his first film to Nadigar Sangam towards a pension scheme for actors above the age of 80. “I have resolved to contribute my salary from my next couple of films to help actors in need,” he says with a smile.
His upcoming films also have serious themes; one is a horror thriller. The handsome actor signs off saying he has no qualms about accepting dark subjects.
