Soori’s physical fitness is important for this role: Mathimaran Pugazhendhi

Soori’s next as a lead will be a sports action drama directed by Mathimaran Pugazhendhi, a former associate of Vetri Maaran, who had earlier made Selfie (2023). The filmmaker informs us that the film, titled Mandaadi, is set in Ramanathapuram, and delves into sailboat racing and also stars Sathyaraj, Mahima Nambiar, and Tollywood actor Suhas.
“Mandaadi are the fishermen who guide a crew on fishing expeditions and races, for they are well aware of the wind and sea currents. They engage in the game of traditional sailboat racing,” says the director, adding that the film also focuses on providing second chances and redemption.
Mathimaran, who worked as a co-writer and the second unit director in Viduthalai: Part 1, shares that Soori was his” only option” for the lead role. “His physical fitness is important for the role. Even Vijay Sethupathi sir told me that Soori sir would be the perfect choice for this film. I have seen his transformation as I have worked closely with him in Viduthalai. His dedication and script knowledge are what have taken him to the position that he is in right now,” he informs.
The filmmaker stresses that he doesn’t think about an actor’s market while casting. “If I think about that, then I’d be doing the story injustice. I only think about whether an actor is apt for the part,” he explains.
On casting Suhas, who will be making his Tamil debut with the film, Mathimaran shares, “I needed an actor who has the range of someone like Nawazuddin Siddiqui. Initially, I wondered whether Suhas would agree to do the film, as he is now doing lead roles in Telugu. But he was eager to work in Tamil and has even decided to dub for his character.”
Mathimaran shares thar he is proud to have Vetri Maaran as his mentor. “I learnt the basics from Vetri sir. Even now, I ask him for his suggestions for my films,” he adds.
Read More: Best Tamil Movies Of 2024| Top Rated Tamil Movies Of 2024| Latest Tamil Movies