Prakash Varma, the celebrated ad filmmaker behind some of India's most iconic commercials, including the Vodafone Zoozoos and the Hutch 'boy and puppy' campaigns, has surprised audiences with his acting debut in the Malayalam film "Thudarum". In the movie, Varma plays CI George Mathan, a character who initially appears as a supportive figure but gradually reveals a chilling and ruthless side. This transformation has been lauded by critics and viewers alike, with many praising Varma's ability to hold his own against veteran actor Mohanlal.
Varma's journey to the big screen is an interesting one. He is the founder of Nirvana Films, a leading ad film company based in Bengaluru, which he established in 2001 with his wife, Sneha Iype. Nirvana Films has been instrumental in creating memorable campaigns for top brands such as Bisleri, KitKat, iPhone, Netflix, and Amazon Prime. Varma's creative vision also extended to tourism, with notable campaigns for Kerala Tourism ("Your Moment Is Waiting") and Dubai Tourism (featuring Shah Rukh Khan). In 2009, he was signed by Michael Bay's advertisement film production house, "The Institute," further solidifying his global presence.
Before making his mark in advertising, Varma honed his skills by assisting veteran Malayalam filmmakers Lohithadas and Viji Thampi. He also worked under renowned ad filmmaker V.K. Varma. This background in filmmaking, combined with his years of experience in crafting compelling narratives for advertisements, likely contributed to his seamless transition into acting.
In "Thudarum," directed by Tharun Moorthy, Varma's character, George Mathan, initially seems like a minor, helpful character. However, as the film progresses, George's true nature is revealed, showcasing Varma's acting prowess. The role has been described as a "powerful, equal force" alongside Mohanlal's character, Shanmugham. The film's narrative explores the complexities of George's character, a police officer who commits heinous crimes.
According to reports, Varma agreed to work on "Thudarum" primarily because of his admiration for Mohanlal. Director Tharun Moorthy selected Varma after considering several actors from the Malayalam and Tamil industries. Varma's performance has resonated with audiences, with many taking to social media to express their surprise and appreciation. Some viewers have humorously commented on "hating" his character, a testament to his convincing portrayal of the antagonist.
"Thudarum" has been a box office success, nearing the ₹70 crore mark in its opening weekend. The film has received positive reviews, with praise directed towards Mohanlal's performance and Varma's unexpectedly strong debut. The film's success in Kerala and the UAE indicates a strong audience reception and positive word-of-mouth.
Prakash Varma's transition from ad filmmaker to actor has been met with acclaim, proving his versatility and creative talent. His performance in "Thudarum" has not only showcased his acting abilities but has also solidified his position as a prominent figure in the Indian entertainment industry.
