Fahadh Faasil Reveals Why He Turned Down Alejandro Iñárritu's 'The Revenant' - 'It Didn't Resonate With Me'

2025-08-17
Fahadh Faasil Reveals Why He Turned Down Alejandro Iñárritu's 'The Revenant' - 'It Didn't Resonate With Me'
The Times of India

Malayalam superstar Fahadh Faasil is known for his discerning choices and commitment to projects that truly resonate with him. In a recent interview, he revealed a surprising detail about a past opportunity: he turned down a chance to work with acclaimed director Alejandro González Iñárritu, the visionary behind films like 'The Revenant' and 'Birdman.'

The offer came after Iñárritu's Oscar-winning 'The Revenant' (2015), and it was a significant one. However, Faasil ultimately declined, citing reasons that weren't initially obvious. While accent concerns played a role, the primary reason, he explained, was a lack of personal connection to the project.

“It was after 'The Revenant'. Alejandro wanted me to do a small part. It was a good offer, but I didn’t feel the fire. It’s important for me to feel that fire,” Faasil stated in a conversation with Galatta Plus. He further elaborated that the project involved a lengthy, unpaid training period in the United States, which added another layer of consideration to his decision.

Many actors would have jumped at the chance to collaborate with a director of Iñárritu's caliber, especially on the heels of such a successful film. However, Faasil’s approach to his craft is clearly driven by a deeper sense of artistic alignment. He prioritizes projects that ignite his passion and allow him to fully immerse himself in the role.

“There were accent issues as well,” he admitted. “I was hesitant because I didn’t want to do a bad job. That's why I didn’t do it.” This demonstrates a commendable level of self-awareness and a commitment to delivering high-quality performances.

Fahadh Faasil's career trajectory speaks for itself. His decision to prioritize artistic fulfillment over potentially lucrative opportunities has resulted in a string of critically acclaimed and commercially successful films in Malayalam cinema, and he's increasingly gaining recognition on a national level. His role in 'Kumbalangi Nights' and 'Joji' have cemented his status as one of the most talented actors in Indian cinema.

This anecdote offers a fascinating glimpse into the decision-making process of a top-tier actor. It highlights the importance of passion and personal connection in choosing projects, even when faced with the allure of working with renowned international filmmakers. Faasil’s story serves as a reminder that success isn't always about saying 'yes' to every opportunity, but about saying 'yes' to the ones that truly inspire you.

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