Kunchacko Boban: ‘I used to unwind myself by reading Padmini’s script during the filming of the highly-challenging Ariyippu’

Never let them know your next move

Kunchacko further mentions that he is currently in a ‘never let them know your next move’ phase. “I thoroughly enjoy taking on new challenges, exploring different roles, and keeping people guessing about what lies ahead in my career.”

Despite the passage of time, Chackochan continues to be regarded as the epitome of romance in Malayalam cinema, even though it has been a while since he last appeared in a pure romantic film. When questioned about his interest in Padmini, a film belonging to the romance genre, he explains, “Over the past few years, I have been predominantly immersed in intense characters and films. Therefore, Padmini serves as a refreshing break, like a soothing breeze amidst these turbulent tempests.”

“During the filming of Ariyippu, which was a highly challenging movie shot under difficult circumstances and both emotionally and physically demanding, I would often unwind by reading the script of Padmini in my room at night. Padmini is precisely the kind of film that offers a feel-good romantic comedy experience, capable of providing people with a much-needed laugh. It’s a relatable movie that we hope the audience will adore, enjoying the delightful moments of laughter and smiles sprinkled throughout,” he adds.

Three reasons why cinema fans will wholeheartedly love Padmini

When asked if he could list three compelling reasons why he believes cinema fans will wholeheartedly love Padmini, Kunchacko Boban replies, “The first reason would be the director, Senna Hegde. Secondly, I would mention the collaboration between the director and scriptwriter Deepu Pradeep, known for penning films like Kunjiramayanam. Here, Deepu is returning with yet another lighthearted and fun movie. And the third reason is that audiences will once again get to see the softer and funnier side of Kunchacko Boban, infused with a touch of emotion.”

Despite becoming a quadragenarian, Chackochan is still the poster boy for romance in Kerala. In fact, most of his greatest successes came from that genre. However, considering the substantial evolution in both cinema and society over the years, The Indian Express was curious to know whether he observed any significant shifts in how romance is perceived and represented on the big screen. Acknowledging the evolution, he says: “It has become more realistic now.”

The transition from a ‘chocolate hero’ to a ‘dark’ chocolate version

Reflecting on his identity as a romantic hero, the thespian quips, “Although being labelled as a ‘romantic hero’ can be a double-edged sword, I consider myself fortunate and grateful for making my debut with the movie Aniyathipravu. Even now, people fondly recall the film and my character in it. While it’s true that I am currently striving to redefine my image, and my recent films have been successful in that regard, the impact of Aniyathipravu was so profound that people still refer to me as a ‘romantic hero’, despite transitioning from a ‘chocolate hero’ to a ‘dark’ chocolate version.”

“But, I must admit, I do enjoy it (laughs). Nowadays, when people call me a romantic hero and a versatile actor simultaneously, I feel like my dreams are finally coming true,” he says.