I am happy that people accept me in diverse roles: Kunchacko Boban

Not many would have had a successful transition like his. Kunchacko Boban's career is all about reinvention, which makes him relevant even now. Twenty-one years after his debut as a romantic hero, Kunchacko, fondly called Chackochan, churns out what one would call "minimum-guarantee" flicks, playing diverse roles. Just like the actor himself, Kunchacko's films are simple, earthy and relatable. In a tete-a-tete with CE, the actor opens up on his new image and films.  
  
Every recent film of yours, including Take Off, Ramante Edenthottam, to the latest Shikkari Shambu, has managed to elicit a good response. 

The 'minimum-guarantee' tag makes me comfortable and happy. It is vital for any film to get noticed, and it is through this that I reach a large audience. From a business angle and as an actor, it gives me immense happiness and satisfaction.

These days your picks are diverse. You played an IAS official in Diwanjimoola Grand Prix and a goonda in Varnyathil Ashanka. Do you get upset when people still tag you as a romantic hero?

Yes, I feel content when my choices are appreciated by the audience. During the shoot of Diwanjimoola, I used to take a bike ride around Thrissur town in the District Collector look. And a few days later, I did the same as the thug Kavta Sivan, in Varnyathil Ashanka. Despite all this, people still think of me as a romantic hero, all because of the love for my old films. While I don't feel upset about this, it makes me sometimes wonder whether my choices are indeed helping my effort. 

Which is your priority, commercial success or critical acclaim?

Like any other actor, I prefer both. When we do a different film, we wish it reaches out to all. It is difficult for a film to stand only on the basis of critical response. Commercial success always encourages us to experiment and take up more such films. 

You are currently shooting for Ramesh Pisharody's Panchavarnathatha along with Jayaram. Can you tell us something about it?

I play an MLA, Kalesh, in it. He is a decent politician and lives with his wife (Anusree) and mother (Mallika Sukumaran).  Jayaramettan's entry into his life and subsequent events form the crux of the film. Ramesh Pisharody is a successful stand-up comedian and this is his first directorial venture. His experience in humour will get reflected in the film and I believe this will be a good treat for Malayalees.

2017 was a mixed bag, with you taking up both light-hearted films and serious ones. How's 2018 shaping up? 

I am a common man who loves entertainment. After doing a few serious characters, I wanted to have a change and relax by doing comic flicks. So, my upcoming ventures Kuttanadan Marpappa and Panchvarnathatha are fun-filled ones. Yet, they will set you thinking.  

You seem to be quite active on social media. Do you find it the best way to reach out to your fans?  
It is the easiest platform that anybody can utilise to express their view. But, we should be wary of the fact that not everybody is going to support you. Some will manipulate our words and intentions and in such events, the best thing is to avoid reacting. 

Your lip-singing video of Hemanthamen song with Vijay Yesudas as a dedication for your wife Priya has gone viral. 

That video was taken very candidly when Viju came to see us. Priya is an ardent fan of Hemanthamen, and if I want to dedicate a song to her, I would play the same one.