Manikandan defends Lover, addresses comparisons with Animal, Arjun Reddy

Actor-screenwriter Manikandan is now waiting for the release of his upcoming movie Lover. Judging from the trailer, the movie seems like some version of director Sandeep Reddy Vanga's controversial but blockbuster movies like Arjun Reddy and Animal.

During a recent podcast interview, Manikandan addressed the growing comparisons between Lover and Animal, emphasizing that love stories are not always painted with rainbows and sunshine. He stated, "Generally, love stories are not about the momentary rush that we feel when we meet a person. Once you become a partner with someone, you should be working continuously to make that relationship work. We cannot assure you that every day you will feel butterflies (in your stomach). There might be things that you liked in the past but no longer find them appealing. And there are also possibilities of that love turning into hatred," Manikandan said on Fries With Potate podcast.

ALSO READ: Manikandan-starrer Lover gets first set of reviews, raving actor’s performance, ahead of its February 9 release

Manikandan breaks silence on Lover

In Lover, Manikandan portrays a disgruntled lover grappling with crippling insecurities when his girlfriend of six years requests more time to decide on marriage. The protagonist reacts strongly to his girlfriend's dilemma, leading him down a path of pain and self-destruction. The trailer depicts the hero frequently using foul language and criticizing his girlfriend in moments of rage, drawing comparisons to Arjun Reddy and Animal.

"I am not going to discuss the personal and creative choices of a particular director or actor," Manikandan asserted, refusing to delve into discussions about other controversial films dealing with issues of abusive relationships.

"As far as I am concerned, we hear countless stories every day from our surroundings. The solution will be very simple. And it depends on you whether or not you're presenting that solution in a progressive way. And I am very cautious about this aspect in all of my movies," he added.

ALSO READ: Ahead of Lover release, here are 3 noteworthy Manikandan films you should watch on OTT

Love stories reimagined

Manikandan suggested that although the movie addresses issues that can turn a relationship toxic, he assured that it would provide a sensible perspective on these problems. He emphasized that a true 'Lover' is someone willing to go to great lengths to protect the relationship. "But, it doesn't mean making the other person in the relationship feel suffocated. It depends on how willing you are to understand and accommodate their feelings and wants," he added.

Lover is written and directed by Prabhuram Vyas. The film also stars Sri Gouri Priya, Kanna Ravi, Saravanan, Geetha Kailasam, Harish Kumar, Nikhila Shankar, Rini, Pintu Pandu and Arunachaleshwaran.

Lover is due in cinemas on February 9.

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