Vishnu Vishal reveals why he got 'Ratsasan' after 17 heroes rejected it: 'Was always everyone's backup option'

Actor Vishnu Vishal is all set for the release of ‘Gatta Kusthi 2’ and has been busy promoting the much-anticipated sequel through a series of media interactions. In one such interview, the actor reminisced about one of the biggest milestones in his career and narrated an interesting story about how he bagged the lead role in 'Ratsasan', one of the most celebrated psychological thrillers in Tamil cinema.Directed by Ram Kumar, the 2018 blockbuster starring Vishnu Vishal and

Amala Paul

was widely praised for its gripping screenplay and intense performances. The film turned out to be a commercial hit and a career turning point for Vishnu Vishal. Years after its release, the actor has now opened up about the unexpected journey that brought him to the project.

17 heroes rejected 'Ratsasan' before Vishnu Vishal

Speaking with Fully Filmy, Vishnu Vishal revealed that the opportunity came his way only after several actors had turned it down.

"'Ratsasan' reached me only after 17 heroes rejected it. The moment I heard the script, I immediately agreed to do the film," he said. However, the actor admitted that things did not go as planned even after he gave his nod. "Even after I accepted the film, director Ram Kumar joined hands with another producer who wasn't interested in working with me.

They announced

Jai

as the lead hero. That was a huge disappointment for me," Vishnu recalled.

Eventually, the project with Jai did not materialise, paving the way for the film to return to him.

A journey filled with unexpected turns

Reflecting on that phase of his career, Vishnu Vishal admitted that he often felt he was never the first choice. "When Ram Kumar came back to me, I had a feeling that I was always everyone's backup option. That thought stayed with me for a long time," he said. At the same time, he clarified that he never blamed the director for what happened.

"I have no complaints against Ram Kumar. Even in movies like ‘Indru Netru Naalai,’ ‘Mundasupatti’ and ‘Velainu Vandhuta Vellaikaaran,’ I was not even considered as the hero,” he further said.

His straightforward statement struck a chord among several fans who appreciated his frankness regarding his difficulties while reaching success.

A career-defining success

Despite the setbacks during its casting stage, ‘Ratsasan’ became one of the biggest hits of Vishnu Vishal’s career. The film's edge-of-the-seat story was praised by critics and proved the actor to be a dependable performer capable of leading intense thrillers. Even today, ‘Ratsasan’ is considered one of the best suspense films in Tamil cinema and has a loyal fanbase. The latest revelation from Vishnu Vishal has allowed movie buffs to get insight into how this film was made and that it is indeed the second coming of his career.