Exclusive: Joju George speaks about collaborating with Anurag Kashyap
3 min read
After an incredible 30 years predominantly in the Malayalam industry as an actor, Joju George has ventured into direction with the film Pani. Not only did he helm the film but also essayed the lead character. In an exclusive conversation with Filmfare, the actor opened up on his latest venture and the challenges of acting and directing at the same time. Joju George further shared his insights into his approach to portraying violence on screen, the changing landscape of Malayalam cinema and his collaboration with renowned filmmaker Anurag Kashyap. Excerpts:
What took you 30 years to get into direction?
I was studying and preparing for it as it is a big responsibility. I love my work and I am passionate about it. So I did it when I thought the right time had come.
What does it mean to be an actor for 30 years?
Being an actor for 30 years means constant evolution, learning, and adapting. It’s about embracing new challenges, staying passionate about the craft, and growing with every role. Experience teaches you patience, resilience, and the importance of staying true to your artistry.
Was directing and acting simultaneously a challenge?
Directing and acting simultaneously was a challenge but it was also a rewarding experience. I had to constantly shift perspectives—seeing the bigger picture as a director while staying fully present in my character as an actor. Balancing both required strong planning, trust in my team, and the ability to switch mindsets seamlessly.
What is your approach towards showing violence in your film? Has it become a popular theme nowadays?
I can’t comment on other films because every film is based on its director’s perspective. I was just executing my project. I’m in the cinema and cinema is an art. When I create a character description or a scene, it is purely the director’s vision for that moment. If it works, it works; if it doesn’t, it doesn’t. There’s no further debate—either the vision comes to life as intended, or it doesn’t resonate.
Anurag Kashyap watched Pani and praised it. He also spoke about leaving Bollywood and moving to the South. What do you think is lacking in Bollywood?
I don’t know about what is lacking in Bollywood but in the Malayalam industry, everyone is working hard. All the new directors are working very hard and they want to make good films. They are putting in the effort and getting good results.Hopefully, I will work with Anurag Kashyap in 2025. That’s a good project. We discussed the story and it’s a good one. It is a good script.
Would you like to do a Hindi film?
I want to explore and grow in my career by working with talented directors. I have future plans that I am actively working on. While I would love the opportunity to collaborate with many filmmakers, my priority is always the script. I prefer roles that come with a strong script or a well-written character. I truly hope to come across exceptional scripts that challenge and inspire me.
Joju George opens up about his film Pani, working in Bollywood and more. Continue reading …Read More
