Marco turned out to be a sleeper hit of 2024. On February 14, it will premiere on Sony LIV in Malayalam, Telugu, Kannada, and Tamil. On this occasion, Marco’s lead actor Unni Mukundan spoke exclusively to Bollywood Hungama about the film and a lot more.
EXCLUSIVE: Unni Mukundan talks about Marco’s premiere on Sony LIV; also says “The climax was new and created SHOCKWAVES across theatres…Malayalam cinema shouldn’t chase ‘Pan-Indian’ tag at the cost of compromising our storytelling”
Nearly a month has passed since Marco has been released. How does it feel when you look back at the numbers and feedback? Does it feel surreal?
It’s been an incredible journey, and I’m grateful for the response Marco has received. The numbers and feedback have been overwhelming, especially seeing how the film resonated across different regions. As an actor, you always hope for your work to be appreciated, but the way audiences have embraced Marco has been truly special.
Reportedly the film opened to Rs. 1 lakh in Hindi on day 1 and then it showed an unbelievable jump. What was the feeling like on the day of release as far as the Hindi version is concerned?
Honestly, it was a mix of excitement and curiosity. We knew Marco had the potential to connect with a wider audience, but the way it picked up after word-of-mouth spread was phenomenal. It just reinforced my belief that good content will always find its audience, regardless of language.
Marco is the biggest Malayalam grosser in Hindi. What does that mean for Malayalam cinema and what can the industry do more so that the Hindi dubbed versions can do better numbers?
It’s definitely a proud moment for Malayalam cinema, but I still believe we shouldn’t chase the ‘Pan-Indian’ tag at the cost of compromising our storytelling. If a film naturally appeals to a larger audience, it will work. The key is to focus on making a good cinema without forcing it to fit a particular market demand. If we stay authentic, the audience will respond positively.
Would you like to bring your forthcoming films in Hindi as well?
It depends on the film. As I’ve said before, I don’t believe in forcing a ‘Pan-Indian’ approach just for the sake of numbers. If a film has the right ingredients to appeal to a Hindi-speaking audience, we will definitely consider it. But my focus will always be on making strong, authentic stories first.
Marco is releasing on Sony LIV now. How important do you think its digital premiere will help to further its reach?
It’s a crucial step. Streaming platforms like Sony LIV have changed the game, allowing films to reach audiences who might have missed them in theatres. Marco will now be accessible to a much larger audience, not just in India but worldwide. I believe its digital premiere will further cement its place and introduce the film to an entirely new segment of viewers.
Who from the Bollywood film industry reached out to you after watching Marco?
I got really positive and motivating responses and support not just from the Hindi film fraternity but from all the regional film industries alike. I wouldn’t want to take names. I wish to keep it private here but all those who called me had one thing in common to say, which was about our attempt to make such a daring film with all heart with the limited resources that we had in hand. I’m glad everyone respected the efforts that my team took, I’m extremely thankful to each one of them. I wish to keep this going and I don’t take anything for granted.
The ending of the film is very shocking. Did you visit cinema halls to check the reaction? How did people react? And what did the distributors have to say before acquiring the film?
The ending and the pre-climax were the most refreshing parts of the film, as per the feedback. It was new and hence, it created shockwaves across screens. We didn’t follow the age-old formula of not letting the hero loose. Rather, I was adamant about bringing this treatment to the screen, so that the audience witness something refreshing. I did visit theatres across India and moviegoers in almost every screen received me with utmost love and respect. The distributors were thrilled and I have been getting unwavering support and positive advice from them as to how eagerly they are awaiting my next film, which they believe can potentially create wonders again. I accept this win with utmost humility but the bottom line remains that unless the film is good the audiences won’t accept it. I’m accountable for maintaining and building upon the trust they have put in me.
Will there be a sequel to Marco?
Yes, but only after I complete a few of my commitments. They, too, are quite refreshing for me as an actor and producer.
Also Read: EXCLUSIVE: Pahlaj Nihalani reveals he had to pull down violent film Marco from his theatre as “audience chillane lage”; blames filmmakers for copying Animal-style filmmaking: “But Animal worked not due to violence but star cast and kissing scenes”
More Pages: Marco Box Office Collection
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