Actor Soori playing baddie for the first time with Mandaadi?
The much-awaited bilingual film Mandaadi, directed by Mathimaran Pugazhendhi and produced by RS Infotainment with creative backing from Vetrimaaran, is currently on floors with an intense shooting schedule in the coastal town of Thondi. The unit is camped there for a 20–25 day stretch, expected to continue till the end of this month.
Given the town’s modest infrastructure and limited hotels, the production team initially settled for small lodges before moving into unoccupied mansions to accommodate the large crew. This unique backdrop is adding to the rustic flavour of the film’s making.
Soori, who has steadily transformed from comedian to acclaimed performer, takes centre stage in Mandaadi as the sole lead. The actor will be seen in two striking get-ups — one rugged with a thick beard and another in a sharp clean-shaven look — promising a fresh screen presence.
Over the past few weeks, rumours suggested that Soori would play different roles in the Tamil and Telugu versions, including speculation about him appearing as the villain. The team has now clarified that these claims are untrue. Soori headlines both versions as the hero, while the antagonist’s role is essayed by Telugu actor Suhas, marking a fresh face-off on screen.
With GV Prakash Kumar’s music, S.R. Kathir’s cinematography, and action by Peter Hein, Mandaadi is shaping up to be a gripping bilingual drama. More than just another project, it signals Soori’s arrival as a bankable solo lead while breaking away from rumours and setting the record straight.