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R Madhavan takes on the role of Neville McKinley, the antagonist in Kesari: Chapter 2, where he faces off against Akshay Kumar’s character, Sankaran Nair. In this narrative set against the backdrop of colonial turmoil, Madhavan portrays a British-educated Indian lawyer who navigates the moral complexities of his time, ultimately aligning himself with the British crown in opposition to Nair during the legal aftermath of the Jallianwala Bagh massacre.
Madhavan’s portrayal of McKinley is inspired by a compilation of real-life lawyers who were brought in to challenge Nair in court, adding layers to his character. His performance has garnered significant acclaim, with many praising his ability to embody such a multifaceted role. Behind-the-scenes footage released recently showcases the journey of Madhavan’s transformation into McKinley, featuring insights from director Karan Singh Tyagi and producer Karan Johar.
Producer Karan Johar emphasized the significance of casting a powerful actor for the role, stating, “When the character ‘Neville’ was written, we needed a solid actor, a solid antagonist to combat the protagonist — and we all know that ‘Maddy’ Madhavan is an absolutely outstanding actor.” Director Karan Singh Tyagi also highlighted Madhavan’s commanding presence on set, noting how he carried himself with the gravitas required for the character. A clip shared on social media encapsulates the meticulous crafting of McKinley’s character, emphasizing elements such as “Every stare, every silence, every decision — crafted to leave a mark.”
This role marks a pivotal moment in Madhavan’s career, coinciding with his 25-year milestone in Indian cinema. Madhavan has a rich filmography, ranging from his early role as Maddy in Rehnaa Hai Terre Dil Mein to his recent ventures, including the critically acclaimed Hisaab Barabar, the Netflix cricket drama Test, and the highly anticipated biopic on the renowned inventor GD Naidu. His diverse choices in roles reflect his dedication to delivering meaningful and impactful cinema.
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www.news18.com