The colour red has become an important motif in Dhananjay's films. “Red is a common link in my recent films. The bloodshed has become a part of my cinematic world,” asserts the actor as he talks to us about his upcoming film, Popcorn Monkey Tiger. Having established himself as the antagonist Daali in Tagaru, Dhananjay has managed to get the audience intrigued about Seena, his character in Suri's gangster drama, which is set for release this week.
Does he think the aggressive roles are working in his favour? “Definitely. Whether it is Al Pacino, Robert De Niro, or our own Kannada actors like Shivarajkumar, underworld and mafia-based subjects have always drawn interest. The underworld setting tends to create curiosity and brings a set of cine-goers to theatres.” Dhananjay goes on to add, “It is a character, and directors think I can justify them. For me, it is all about learning and unlearning. Each phase of cinema teaches you that.”
Daali, the character created by Suri in Tagaru, took Dhananjay's career graph to another level and helped him get a variety of roles. Will people forget Daali after watching Seena? “This character will have the intensity of Daali, but the philosophy, approach, and thought process of Seena will be different. The director has come up with something different in Popcorn Monkey Tiger,” he says.
Ask him about his equation with Suri, and Dhananjay says, “People who don’t mind keeping an open mind can work with Suri. One needs to be focused and alert. When you surrender to a good director, they will bring out the best in you. From my end, I like uncertainty, and Suri is a director who springs surprises with his unique stories and characters.” He adds, “Popcorn Monkey Tiger is neatly presented, and all I can say now is that it will stay with the audience.”
Similarly, other cast members of the film also heaped praise on director Suri while talking about their roles in the movie.
Niveditha
“Devika goes through a lot of in life. How each experience changes her and how she responds to it, is told through the film. Suri is a spontaneous director. He is like a painter who splashes colour, resulting in different shades and strokes. As the painting progresses things take shape.”
Amrutha Iyengar
“Popcorn Monkey Tiger was not a film, it was an experience and learning process. It was a dream to work with Suri sir. He challenges actors to do their best. Popcorn Monkey Tiger has a very special place in my heart and will always remain the best experience of my entire cinema career. Sumithra is a reflection of every middle-class woman. It took days to come out of the character as it was highly emotional.”
Sapthami Gowda
“Big fish or little fish, everybody is required to keep the balance in the food chain. Similarly, all the characters came together to make Popcorn Monkey Tiger. Working with director Suri sir has given me confidence and the drive to take up acting as a career.”