In a recent interview, acclaimed actor Manoj Bajpayee discussed his perspective on acting by drawing a Robert De Niro comparison to Malayalam cinema legends Mohanlal and Mammootty. Speaking with Galatta Plus, Bajpayee highlighted the distinct acting approaches of these artists, underlining ongoing debates about their individual styles and contributions.
Contrasting Approaches to Craft Among Legendary Actors
Manoj Bajpayee observed that Mohanlal and Mammootty represent two markedly different interpretations of their craft, drawing a parallel with renowned actors such as Naseeruddin Shah and Om Puri, as well as with Robert De Niro and Al Pacino. According to Bajpayee, De Niro is known for his deep understanding of his roles and his flexibility on set, being
“ready to grasp anything that comes to him at the last-minute.”
On the other hand, Pacino approaches his work through extensive rehearsal, ensuring that he fully masters his character long before filming begins. Bajpayee identified Mohanlal’s methods as similar to De Niro’s, marked by natural intuition and adaptability, while likening Mammootty’s meticulous preparations to Pacino’s rigorous rehearsal process.
Manoj Bajpayee’s Admiration for Mohanlal and Mammootty
Bajpayee’s appreciation for the two Malayalam icons was evident as he delved into their preparation techniques. He stated,
“Mohanlal sir is somebody who knows his script backwards; I think after that, he must be living it and he is ready with each and every nuance,”
Manoj Bajpayee, Actor. He contrasted this approach with Mammootty’s, describing Mammootty as an unparalleled “true craftsman” who brings calculated precision to his performances.
Praise for Mammootty’s Performance in Bramayugam
The discussion continued as Bajpayee referenced Mammootty’s role as an antagonist in Rahul Sadasivan’s horror film Bramayugam, released last year. He remarked,
“Bramayugam! My goodness! You cannot carry a film if your craft is not of that level,”
Manoj Bajpayee, Actor. Bajpayee was particularly impressed by how Mammootty’s subtle acting resolved the film’s mysteries purely through on-screen presence and performance.
Personal Connection and Lasting Admiration
Reflecting on his own experiences as a film enthusiast and actor, Bajpayee shared,
“I have been watching both of these greats since many years,”
Manoj Bajpayee, Actor. In his early years, he revealed, he often volunteered at film festivals just to be able to watch Malayalam films featuring Mohanlal and Mammootty, further underlining his longstanding respect for their contributions to cinema.
Manoj Bajpayee’s Robert De Niro comparison of Mohanlal and Mammootty not only underscores the unique qualities of these actors but also provides insight into how global standards and methods can offer perspective on Indian cinema. As ongoing discussions about acting techniques continue, Bajpayee’s perspective is likely to spark further interest among film critics and audiences.
