Actor Aari Arujunan, who was last seen in director Cheran's web series debut, Cheran's Journey, has joined hands with director LR Sundarapandi for his next film, titled Release. Billed as a thriller, Release marks Sundarapandi's sophomore effort, he previously co-directed Theerkadarishi with PG Mohan.
Aari reveals that he will be seen playing an IT professional in Release. "My character gets caught in a complex situation and is given the choice to escape from it. However, he chooses to stay, face the challenge, and reach his destination, as he believes that everything happens for a reason and that it is not right to leave something unfinished the minute an obstacle comes in the path." When asked what about the script attracted him, he says, "I was impressed by the film's interval block. The connection between the title and the story also seemed interesting to me. You will understand once you see the film."
The actor further adds that Release is completely different from another thriller that he is working on. "I am currently working on a film with Lakshmi Menon. I have completed filming for one schedule. While it is an intense and raw thriller, I play completely different characters in both these film, which I thought was quite interesting," he explains.
Having recently worked with a veteran like Cheran, Aari has opted to work with a relatively new director for his next. The director's previous film, Theerkadarishi helped him with the decision to do Release. "I also know the crew, so I was confident about the technical prowess of Sundarapandi. When he approached me, he had already completed pre-production, which showed his level of dedication. However, with a decade of experience, Aari maintains a realist approach when it comes to the success of his films. "End of the day, the real judge is the audience and it is upto them to make this film a success."
The actor, who started his career as a fitness instructor, says he misses one particular thing about his past. "While I am extremely blessed to have reached this place, I miss the freedom I had when I was just a fitness instructor. Back then, I didn't have to worry about going out in public, or eating at a roadside shop, because nobody knew my identity. Today, anything I do in public, I have to do it consciously because people know who I am," shares the actor.
Coming up, Aari's untitled film with Lakshmi Menon is helmed by debutant Rajashekar Pandian. "I have also completed a film with Hansika, titled Man, in which I have played the antagonist. Additionally, I am in the process of starting a production house, and I am listening to scripts for that as well," he reveals.
Having completed 14 years in the industry, Aari only has one goal for now. "All these years, I have been picky about my scripts. This year, I have decided to do more films, as and when good opportunities come my way," says a confident Aari.