GOOD GUYS GONE BAD

We like our lead men good - do-gooders who stand up for evil and voice against injustice. The stereotyping of actors as larger-than-life-heroes has been in practice ever since Tamil cinema was born. However, some of our legendary actors, Rajini and even Kamal (latest being in Endhiran and Dasavatharam), have done negative roles with the panache of a veteran. Here we take a look at other such examples.

Ajith - Mankatha
Venkat Prabhu gave Ajith's portfolio a total twist with Mankatha. The stylish yet roguish undercover cop of Mankatha had loads of negative shades and Ajith passed with flying colors.

Ajmal - Ko
This unassuming actor proved to be a revelation when the intentions of his character are revealed in the political thriller Ko. The up and coming Ajmal proved that he could deliver the goods right when required.

Sudeep - Naan Ee
This Kannada heavyweight did not think twice before taking up a negative role in Rajamouli's Naan Ee. The rest, as they seem to say, is history. Sudeep is a known name now in Tamil and Telugu.

Narain - Mugamoodi
You thought Narain can only play a softie or a man who is in the brink of losing everything (as in Anjaadhe)? Mysskin is all set to break the myth as Narain's villain role in Mugamoodi is said to be very powerful and pivotal.