Stunt Silva, action choreographer of 160 films in seven languages and still counting, marks his acting debut with Malayalam film, Street Lights.
While Silva has earlier played small roles in films, Street Lights is his first prominent role. He faces Mammootty in the thriller directed by cinematographer turned director Shamdat.
Silva says he has worked with Mammootty and choreographed stunts for the star, but this opportunity to share screen space with the star surpassed all his dreams.
The Mammootty fan reminisces watching Thalapathi (Mani Ratnam film featuring Mammootty) and whistling every time the legendary actor appeared on-screen.
“I am humbled by Mammuka’s magnanimity in accepting me as a co-actor.”
Silva plays Murugan in Street Lights, a Tamilian, adding that he cannot reveal more about the character.
During filming, director Shamdat insisted that he refrain from acting and just be himself. Silva’s curly shock of hair that is sometimes tied into a ponytail and golden earrings form his signature look. A
“He had written my character during our work on a Telugu film,” said Silva. “The role came with my attitude and looks.”
It was due to Shamdat’s meticulous planning that the film was completed within 35 days.
A native of Tuticorn, Silva arrived in Chennai in 2002. After assisting Peter Hain, action choreographer and an Indian National Award recipient, Silva got his first solo project with Telugu director SS Rajamouli for Yamadonga.
He has worked with the who’s who of Tamil cinema — Rajinikanth, Ajith, Vijay, Vikram, Dhanush and Surya. Awaiting release are his films, Robot 2, Samy 2 and Maari 2. It’s the second time he staged stunt sequences for Rajnikanth, Vikram and Dhanush.
