Tovino says he wasn’t influenced by ‘Superstar David Padikkal’

"While signing the movie, I had a clear picture of the plot and was truly impressed with the storyline." — Tovino

BySouth First Desk

Published May 04, 2024 | 11:03 AMUpdatedMay 04, 2024 | 11:03 AM

Tovnino Thomas opens up about his role of David Padikkal in Nadikar

Tovino Thomas’s Nadikar was released on Friday, 3 May, to mixed response. He plays a self-obsessed superstar named David Padikkal in the film.

The actor is drawing huge applause for his performance in Nadikar.

The movie, directed by Lal Jr, narrates the story of David Padikkal, his films, and his career.

Meanwhile, on Friday evening, Tovino Thomas held a press conference where he shared his thoughts about his character and the movie.

‘Was impressed with the script’

Tovino Thomas stated that he received mixed responses for his film Nadikar after the first day first show.

When asked if there is a need for superstars in the Malayalam film industry, Tovino opined that the industry needs only actors and not superstars.

However, referring to Mammootty and Mohanlal, the two superstars in Malayalam, the actor said, “Our superstars are great actors. Nevertheless, maintaining superstardom and showcasing one’s acting skills is equally important.”

About his character, Tovino Thomas explained that David Padikkal is a superstar who ends up in trouble since he doesn’t put in effort to become a good actor. As a result, his films flop at the box office.

However, the Malayalam actor clarified that he doesn’t have the traits of David Padikkal nor was he influenced by his character in Nadikar.

“While signing the movie, I had a clear picture of the plot and was truly impressed with the storyline. I decided to do the film since I found the script exciting,” he pointed out.

Nadikar review: A good effort by Lal Jr in showcasing a self-obsessed superstar through a brilliant Tovino

References to Mammootty & Mohanlal in Nadikar

A poster of Tovino's Nadikar

A poster of Tovino-starrer ‘Nadikar’. (X)

There are sequences where Soubin Shahir’s character Bala, the acting trainer of David Padikkal, refers to Mammootty and Mohanlal’s acting skills in Nadikar.

When asked about this, Tovino Thomas disclosed that the makers intentionally gave references to Mammootty and Mohanlal in the film.

Nadikar also makes references to other actors. But we mentioned Mammootty and Mohanlal particularly since the audience can easily connect with them,” he said.

In a scene, where David Padikkal tries to rescue a youngster, the music from Tovino Thomas’ popular movie Minnal Murali (2021) plays in the background and compares the protagonist with the superhero.

Interestingly, Tovino wasn’t aware of Minnal Murali‘s music being used in his latest outing until he watched it.  However, the actor said he enjoyed the sequence thoroughly.

Scriptwriter Suvin told the media that they found these references interesting while opening the film.

When asked about using yesteryear Malayalam actor Prem Nazir’s statement about superstars in Nadikar, Tovino Thomas stated that it was meant to give a perception of how a superstar or actor must be, like Prem Nazir.

Produced by Mythri Movie Makers and God Speed Productions, Nadikar is running successfully in theatres.

Also Read: Nivin Pauly hits the bull’s eye with ‘Malayalee From India’