After playing the hero in 'formula films', Sathyaraj now sports a different role in Gurushetram. Apparently tired of acting in cliched roles, the tall actor now changes gear to do a serious role.

The movie directed by Jayabharathy, who wielded the megaphone for national-award winners like Kudisai and Nanba Nanba, is full of surprises.

Produced by popular Kannada actor Rajendra, Gurushetram features Roja opposite Sathyaraj. Rajendra plays a baddie in the movie.

Speaking about the movie, director Jayabharathy, says, 'Sathyaraj plays a caring husband who is affected by paranoia.' Incorporated into this is the issue of national security.

`A serious issue haunting the national security should be an ideal material for an actor of his stature,' the director says.

'The role is tailor-made for Roja, as she has the experience and the wherewithal to give perfection to the character.'

Vadivelu plays the comedian in the movie and is sure to evoke laughter, says the director.

As the name suggests, Gurushetram is about the fight between the good and evil. It is also the fight that the man wages to slay his inner demons.

Sathyaraj, who was wasted all along in mindless spoofs, needs a different film to get back to the mainstream.

Gurushetram is his battle to get back to the front end.