One of the significant masterminds behind shaping the vision of a film is a director. But what happens when such storytellers decide to step in front of the lens and act? Well, in the recent past, there have been many such surprises when Indian directors entertaining their fans by acting on screens. From playing dirty villains to getting into the shoes of a lead protagonist, these creative minds have definitely proven that they are as compelling in front of the camera as they are behind it. Since, Lokesh Kanakaraj is making his acting Debut, Lets look at the top 5 Indian Directors Turned Actors.
1. Lokesh Kanagaraj
Famous for: Kaithi, Master, Vikram.
Lokesh Kanagaraj is one of the most exciting contemporary directors from Tamil cinema, making his debut as an actor. The details about the project are still undisclosed, but the buzz around his debut as an actor is strong, especially after the teaser release of Coolie.
2. Anurag Kashyap – The Gritty Auteur Turned Actor
Deeds Favorite Gangs of Wasseypur, Dev.D
Roles: AK vs AK (2020), Kennedy (2023)
He took the bold approach of layered characters that have the hallmarks of his raw style. The example of this is his role of himself in AK vs AK and in the noir thriller Kennedy.
3. Karthik Subbaraj- The Cameo King
Well Known For: Jigarthanda, Petta
Acting Credits: Bench Talkies, Pandiyanadu
Karthik is mainly known for his stylish filmmaking, but he also had some taste of action in some memorable surprise short roles and cameos.
4. Farhan Akhtar – The Multitalented Marvel
Direct: Dil Chahta Hai, Don
Debut in Acting: Rock On!! (2008)
Farhan has indeed transformed that direction toward being acclaimed as an actor, a singer, and a writer. Versatile and definitely committed to performance.
ALSO READ: Lokesh Kanagaraj’s Coolie Remuneration Grabs Eyeballs
5. SJ Suryah – Master of Reinvention Direct: Vaali, Kushi
Acted In: Maanaadu (2021), Bommai (2023)
SJ Suryah is widely regarded as one of the strongest director stars turned actors in the south for his intense portrayals of villains and lead roles. His success as an actor has perhaps overshadowed, in some ways, his fame as a director.
Experimenting with fearless roles, directing storytelling instincts alive on screen: these directors have instead proved that creativity has no boundaries.