The trailer for the MGR biopic was released over the weekend, featuring model Sathish Kumar as the AIADMK founder and former Tamil Nadu Chief Minister. Speaking to Silverscreen, director Balakrishnan said that the team took a long time to get the script of the film ready. The director, who had previously helmed Kamaraj, explained that the delay was due to the lack of available material on MGR’s early life. “We all know how MGR became an actor, and what he did once he established himself in the field. However, we only have hearsay about his early years. I knew early on that I’d have to take more time to research those aspects of his life.”
Another challenge that he encountered to make the biopic seem as authentic as possible was to get a lead actor who looked the part. “It was twice as difficult. MGR was a man who looked a certain way. His stardom had a lot to do with his looks and talent. We could not find anybody who looked like him so we held extensive auditions. First, for the actor who’d play him in his later years, and then for a child artiste who’d portray him in his formative years.”
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The director knew he’d struck gold when he met Sathish Kumar, a model. Sathish is a known face in advertising circles and has been modelling for close to a decade. “In full costume, he was a look alike of MGR. And once we got him, the biopic really took off. When the actor looks right for the role, half of the work is done. Thankfully, Sathish is fully invested in his role and has done and learnt everything in order to get the portrayal right.”
Riythvika has been cast as Janaki. The team is yet to begin casting for the roles of Jayalalitha and Karunanidhi.
For now, Balakrishnan is hoping that music director Ilaiyaraaja will agree to compose for the film. “He composed for my Kamaraj. I hope that he is entertained enough by my new script to join us again. We are hoping for the best,” he added.
The trailer for the movie was launched by yesteryear actor Latha in Chennai.