Known for her uncompromising dedication to her craft and authentic performances, actress Parvathy Thiruvothu has surprised fans by revealing she abandoned a strict, career-long professional habit for her upcoming film i, Nobody. The much-anticipated project, which reunites her with co-star Prithviraj Sukumaran, demanded a unique approach that pushed the acclaimed actress out of her comfort zone.
The “Monitor Rule”
For nearly two decades, Parvathy has maintained a firm personal rule: she avoids watching her own performance on the director’s monitor after a take. The actress explained that observing her own footage often leads to subconscious self-correction. In her view, if she watches herself, she might inadvertently adjust her facial expressions to look “pretty” or camera-friendly, which she believes compromises the rawness and honesty of her acting.
Why the Exception?
However, while filming i, Nobody—a stylish satire directed by Nisam Basheer—Parvathy felt compelled to break this ritual. According to the actor, the film’s visual language is deeply rooted in rhythm, camera movement, and specific editing patterns.
Director Nisam Basheer, who previously helmed Rorschach, approached the scenes more like “movement choreography” than traditional acting. Because the visual rhythm and the specific way she sat or moved were critical for the subsequent edit, Parvathy had to adapt. She described the process as “exposure therapy,” as she began huddling with the film’s child actors after every shot to review the monitor. Instead of worrying about how she looked, she became a student of the director’s distinct filmmaking style, focusing entirely on the technical precision required for the frame.
A High-Stakes Reunion
The film, i, Nobody, marks a significant reunion between Parvathy and Prithviraj, who have previously shared the screen in successful projects like Ennu Ninte Moideen and Koode. Produced by Supriya Menon, CV Sarathi, and Mukesh R Mehta, the movie has generated immense buzz not just for its lead pair but also for its genre-bending narrative.
As she prepares for her upcoming directorial debut and diverse acting roles, this rare glimpse into her process confirms why she remains one of the most unpredictable and respected actors in Indian cinema.