Joy Mathew

“Mammootty came on board unexpectedly. 'Uncle,' which I am co-producing with Sajai Sebastian, was meant to be a low-budget film and we had almost cast another actor in the titular role. But, during the shoot of 'Puthan Panam,' I narrated the film's plot to Mammootty, who liked it and wanted to do the movie.”

“Cinema is a passion for me, not a profession.”

“As an actor, you are used to portraying other characters. You can pick up any mannerism or body language that suits the character. But to be yourself and not look pretentious is a difficult thing to do.”

“In college I received the Best Actor award for four consecutive years under Calicut University.”

“Let's just say I get along well with the youngsters. Working with them energises me, and I find that I have a lot to learn from them.”

“I don't classify film people into old and new gen and so get along with all.”

“I keep getting advice on the social media that I should be selective in accepting roles. But, as an actor, I get attracted to every role I'm offered.”

“Johns will give me a good critique of my work. Before starting my film 'Shutter' I gave the script to Johns for his opinion.”

“Our films appear to have become realistic once again. 'Thondimuthalum Driskakshiyum' is a fine example. I am glad that I could also contribute to this phase of Malayalam cinema with 'Shutter.'”

“As an actor I don't have a problem with any kind of films.”

“I was never after celebrity status.”

“The film has been titled 'Uncle,' and will revolve around a family, like 'Shutter.' The social and political milieu of Kerala is of much importance in the movie and it's about an unusual situation a family is made to face.”

“After 'Amen' people started recognising me. It made me think that acting is better than direction.”

“I don't think it is right that a small number of people should decide what is good and what is not good.”

“It is very easy to make an art film. They are an exercise in self-deception.”

“I always say that you get to see a 'Malayali' only in the Gulf. Even in Kerala, you will only see somebody from Kozhikode, Alappuzha, or Kollam, never a quintessential Malayali!”

“I treat everyone equally whether you are an intellectual, a layman or an auto driver.”