Dileesh Pothan Discusses His Dual Role as Actor and Director in 'Ronth'

Exploring the Duality of Direction and Acting

Dileesh Pothan, known for his remarkable talent, reflects on his passion for both directing and acting. Which role truly captivates you more?

Directing brings me immense satisfaction as I enjoy the process of bringing stories to life from behind the camera and guiding actors in their performances. Initially, acting was not my primary passion; I viewed it more as a source of income. However, as I took on more roles, my dedication grew, and I began to genuinely enjoy the craft of acting.

Current Focus on Acting

Is acting your primary focus at this time?

In recent years, I have consciously dedicated myself to my characters, building confidence in my performances. While I enjoy acting, I still find greater fulfillment in directing and the collaborative nature of filmmaking, where I can help others realize their characters.

Attraction to Complex Characters

What types of characters do you find appealing as an actor?

With my newfound confidence, I am particularly drawn to characters that possess depth and complexity. If I receive compelling roles with significant layers, I am eager to immerse myself in them and bring them to life on screen.

Preparation for 'Ronth'

How much research did you conduct for your role as a cop in 'Ronth'?

Portraying Yohannan, the night patrolling officer, required extensive research. My understanding of police work began during the filming of my directorial project, 'Thondimuthalum Driksashiyum', where I spent considerable time at a police station observing officers and their routines.

Learning from Experience

What resources aided your preparation?

Our director, Shahi Kabir, a former police officer, was an invaluable resource. I learned a lot from his experiences and also interacted with other team members with law enforcement backgrounds, which provided insights into police work. Additionally, I drew inspiration from acquaintances in my life, considering how they might act in a similar role.

On-Screen Chemistry with Roshan Mathew

How was your relationship with Roshan Mathew, both on and off-screen?

Working with Roshan Mathew was a rewarding experience. His dedication as an actor and our shared theatre background contributed to our on-screen chemistry. Our scenes felt natural, and we had the freedom to improvise, enhancing the emotional connection between our characters.

Roshan Mathew Off-Screen

What is Roshan like when the cameras are off?

Off-screen, Roshan is an intriguing person with a vibrant curiosity about life and a passion for cinema, making it a pleasure to collaborate with him.

The Popularity of Police Procedurals in Malayalam Cinema

Why do you think police procedurals are so prevalent in Malayalam cinema?

The popularity of police procedurals in Malayalam cinema can be attributed to our industry's focus on realistic storytelling. These narratives, filled with suspense and authenticity, resonate well with audiences. The involvement of individuals with real-life law enforcement experience, like Shahi Kabir, adds depth and credibility to these films.

Emerging Talents in Malayalam Cinema

What are your thoughts on the new generation of actors in Kerala?

It's an exciting time for Malayalam cinema with a new wave of talented actors emerging after the legendary Mohanlal and Mammootty. While only a few have gained widespread recognition, I believe these actors will continue to grow and establish themselves in the industry. The Malayalam film scene is rich with talent, showcasing a willingness to take on challenging roles that make them captivating to watch.

Future Directorial Projects

When can we expect your return to direction after 'Joji'?

I am currently working on my next directorial project, which is in the writing phase. I hope to complete it by the end of this year and begin filming next year. I am excited about bringing this new story to life.

Challenges of Playing a Dark Character

Is it difficult to detach from a dark character like the one in 'Ronth'?

Playing a dark and traumatized character has its emotional challenges. While it can leave a lasting impact, I generally find it easy to step away from the role once filming is complete. The process is intense, but I can leave the character behind when the project wraps up.