Vijay Antony: ‘I Need to Focus More on Acting and Slow Down on Composing’ (EXCLUSIVE)

When Vijay Antony proved his mettle as a music composer with chartbuster songs two decades ago, little did people imagine that he would take up acting assignments in lead roles, along with production, in the future. As if this weren’t enough, the multifaceted artiste, who began his career as a sound engineer, donned the role of a film editor almost a decade ago and wielded the megaphone in 2023. He is now gearing up for the release of "Nooru Sami," which is slated to hit the screens soon. Apart from bankrolling the film helmed by Sasi, he plays the lead in it, too. Pinning high hopes on the project, he opens up to Variety India in an exclusive chat. Excerpts...

'Nooru Sami' marks your collaboration with Sasi after the runaway hit 'Pichaikkaran.' Were you both on the lookout for a unique story all these years to come together again?
Not at all. It's just that both of us were busy with our respective commitments. However, this time, too, we are confident that the subject we have touched upon will leave an impact. "Nooru Sami" deals with an important topic that is likely to be widely discussed post its release. It's about something that exists in our society, and we are aware of it as well, yet we turn a blind eye toward it.

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The core plot wasn't revealed in the recently released teaser. Was that a conscious decision?    
We wanted to keep the viewers guessing about the so-called taboo mentioned in the teaser. It's about a primitive mindset that people stick to even in today's advanced society. The highlight of "Pichaikkaran" centered around the core theme — a billionaire son resorting to begging — a never-before-heard story. The prime conflict in "Nooru Sami," too, is based on such a unique theme. The film has elements that are sure to strike a chord with the female audience.

A still from 'Nooru Sami'

The story is set against a rural backdrop. We haven't seen you in many such roles...
I play a sugarcane farmer in the film. I felt so gratified to have portrayed this character. I haven't taken up many roles that have rural backdrops. I have been thinking of doing more of such grounded characters. Having said that, I don't plan things like this. I have always believed that stories and characters should happen by themselves.  

You have produced the film and acted in it. Why didn't you take up editing and music this time?  
I have absolutely no time. My hands are full. In fact, I have been contemplating focusing more on acting. I need to slow down on music composing and editing. There is too much on my plate now. It would be good if I choose interesting characters like how Sathyaraj sir and Sarath Kumar sir manage to do. I will have to produce a film or two in a year, though, as there are people who are dependent on me.

So, quality over quantity?
More than the quality-versus-quantity aspect, I want to allot more time to projects that I take up. I always believe in a well-intentioned and sincere approach while working, be it acting, composing, or editing. I leave the result to fate.  

Kollywood has witnessed several successful, small films in the last few months. How encouraging is this trend for you as a producer?
It's quite a healthy trend and instills confidence in producers like me. The industry benefits from more filmmakers. It's a huge win even if 10 out of 50 such creators make it big in the future. More than anything, I'm happy for the exhibitors. Instead of waiting for those big-ticket movies that release twice or thrice in a year, they are content with the solid run the small movies have had in recent times.