As 2018 is just a few days away, we ask Jai how he is ringing in the New Year. “Nitin torture thaanga mudiyala. I am shooting for Jarugandi, his production. Engayum poga vidamaatengaraan (He doesn’t let me go anywhere). And I am shooting even at nights,” he begins.“People around me are laughing. But, the shoot has been a lot of fun. Despite Nitin being a good friend, we haven’t taken this film for granted and the shoot is happening in a professional manner. We haven’t compromised on anything when it comes to Jarugandi ,” adds Jai.
As the actor’s 20th film Balloon is all set to release on Friday, the movie has created a lot of anticipation. “I rejected a lot of horror films before Balloon as there was nothing new in them. When Sinish narrated the story of Balloon, I felt there was a lot more in it than a typical horror film. It has emotions, comedy and other important elements that even a normal film requires. The basic idea is to provide the chills and thrills that any horror film would do. But Balloon is something more than that,” he says.
We tell Jai about the theatrical teaser that received an amazing response from the audience, particularly the clown, and much to our surprise, he reveals that, “I’m the clown. I don’t know if anyone recognised me in that avatar. The makeover needed a couple of hours for over 10 days. It has been worth the effort. The audience will definitely love the character,” he muses.
“I play a balloon seller in the flashback. It’s a retro avatar in which I’m paired with Janani Iyer. I also play an assistant director in a contemporary setup, apart from the role of a clown. While the retro avatar needed some preparation, I had to put on some weight to play the AD. Sinish said that my body language had to be like that of an AD, who is struggling for his break as a director,” he explains.
Speaking about the horror elements, he says, “Apart from the house and the visuals one could see in the film, Yuvan’s music will give you the chills. This is Yuvan’s first horror film as well. He himself was startled after giving us the sample of his recording,” laughs Jai.
Jai has predominantly been part of films by debut directors in his 15-year-long career. “I always look towards nurturing new talent. Except Venkat Prabhu in Chennai 28 II and Kalakalappu 2 with Sundar C, my films have mostly been with debut directors. Sasikumar made his debut with Subramaniapuram, while Venkat Prabhu was a newbie when the first part of Chennai 28 happened. I know the struggle of a new director running from pillar to post with scripts. If their script is good and has something new to offer, I give my nod,” he adds.
Jai, who recently wrapped up Kalakalappu 2 says that he found a best friend in Jiiva. “He is an absolute sweetheart. He doesn’t have any ego and makes it a point that everyone gets a good amount of screen space. We made a deal that we will do at least one movie together every year from now,” he says.
Speaking about his rumoured linkup with Anjali, he says, “We share great on-screen chemistry. She is also a very caring person.” he says. Films apart, Jai is simultaneously busy preparing for the Formula 4 racing season in January. “I spend my weekends testing my cars for the upcoming MRF F1600 Indian National Racing Championship that is taking place in Chennai, Coimbatore and Delhi. I’m focussing on finishing in top position,” he concludes.
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