Villu Movie Preview

Starring: Vijay, Nayanthara, Vadivelu.
Direction: Prabhu Deva
Music: Devi Sri Prasad
Production: Ayngaran International

Two years after Pokkiri Pongal, the Prabhu Deva – Vijay team returns to rock theaters for another Pongal. 'Villu-Powerfullu', says Vijay at the end of the Villu trailer and that is what we have been promised this Pongal in theaters, a powerful Vijay entertainer for all his fans and for those who love to have a good time.

The director Prabhu Deva has emphatically stated that the movie is an out and out racy entertainer in the Vijay mould, but there is a little extra. If you have seen the trailer, you will know what the extra element is, style. Normally, Vijay films are associated with the raw urban unsophisticated style sense that Chennai can be associated with. But many shots of Villu have shown Ilaya Thalapathi in a more suave and elegant mode. The immaculate suits, trendy blazers and coolers, helicopters, gadgets and all give the movie a bit of a 'Bond' touch, even Prakash Raj sports a new and cool hair style; we have to wait and watch how much of that we can really be experienced on screen.

The one-liners, punch dialogues and all the festival elements seem to be there in oodles. Then, there is the inevitable part of any Vijay film; songs and dances. Listen to the music once and you know that this was made by Devi Sri Prasad especially to suit the feet of quicksilver that Vijay has. Look forward to several racy foot tapping moments in the theater.

Apart from Vijay, the cast has Nayanthara, one of the most wanted ladies in Kollywood. Prabhudeva has gone on record to say that once Villu releases, the Vijay-Nayan pair will be the hottest in Kollywood circles. You know what to expect when Nayan is heroine, glamour. But this time she is said to have shared the comedy department with Vaigai Puyal. Vadivelu, his ability to bring down the house is legendery and the Villu team has said that the comedy track in the film is something special.

Looks like the movie has all the elements that it takes in the making of a festival hit. The fun, the style, the excitement, the pulsating songs and racy action. This one needs to be a hit, more than anyone Ayngaran requires a big success after a string of failures Go check out Villu in theaters and celebrate Pongal in style. As Vijay says in the trailer 'Watch me in action'.

Deva on dream turf

With the stylish Villu, Prabhu Deva hopes to recreate the MGR kind of movie, with something for everyone, says s. r. ashok kumar

He started out as a dance master before turning into a celebrity choreographer. Called India’s ‘Michael Jackson’ for his gravity-defying moves on the dance floor, the wiry Prabhu Deva re-invented himself, first as a hero and then, as a film director. He now has to his credit three movies in Telugu and one in Tamil. Villu, his latest, will hit the silver screen on January 12.

The ace dancer-choreographer talks about the film and his work. Excerpts from the interview:

How do you cope with tension that your job entails? Are you the serious or the easy going kind?

At times, I am short-tempered, but on the whole, I am a happy-go-lucky person. People have said that my anger has taken a backseat after I became director. Now, I tell my cast and crew not to get worked up during shooting.

Pokkiri was a remake. What about Villu?

Villu is not a remake. It will be like an MGR film, with positive energy, electrifying performances and ingredients such as songs, fights and sentiment, coupled with beautiful visuals. And this formula will prove to be heady. Pokkiri had a lot of raw emotions, but Villu has style. I think it will probably be one of Vijay’s best films.

Does Vijay have a double role in it?

versatile Prabhu Deva

That’s for people to find out after watching the film!

The storyline of a recent film revolved around the father-son relationship. It is repeated in a forthcoming movie. Does Villu have a similar theme?

I don’t want to spoil the fun for the audience. But I guarantee that filmgoers will love it and want to watch the film again and again.

What are the highlights of Villu?

Vijay’s performance is one. And, Nayanthara, not only tackles the heroine’s role well, but also the comic scenes. She has matched the skills of one of our best comedians — Vadivelu. A great effort! Then, there are a couple of action sequences, which are new to the Tamil screen. These segments will remind you of James Bond movies. Devi Sri Prasad has done a wonderful job with the songs and the re-recording.

What is the significance of the title?

Well, it has a layered meaning. Like an arrow, the hero has an aim and tries to fulfil it. In Tamil, there is a saying, ‘Villukku Vijayan’. In Villu, it is ‘Villukku Vijay.’

You are five films old with Villu. How do you rate yourself as a director?

I’ve also done the Hindi version of Pokkiri with Salman Khan. It is in the post-production stage. However, I’m unable to rate myself. In fact, I’m yet to get used to the idea of being referred to as a director. I direct a film to the best of my ability — nothing more, nothing less. Let the audience judge my work.

Of your various avatars such as choreographer, actor, director and now lyricist ( Villu), which role is closest to your heart?

Dance choreography! Lyric writing was an accident. I made up a few lines and my assistants added a few lines. They had to mention someone’s name as lyricist and asked me whether they could use mine. I reluctantly agreed. But, I want to stress that I don’t want to intrude into or interfere with other departments in this field, now or later.

Vijay vows never to change his formula

Vijay is looking happy and confident about his forth coming film Villu. He hopes that the film will bring back the magic like Gilli or Pokkiri for him at the box office.

In his recent interview Vijay said, "Yes... Villu is a mass entertainer. I will not move away from my core area- making movies for the masses. Why should I tinker with the evergreen formula that has worked wonders for me at the box-office?

The treatment, the twists and turns in the story, the comedy, the action and the songs are all packaged in an interesting manner. My audiences are the ordinary people who want to be entertained, and it will be a visual treat for them".

To a question about his understanding with the actor turned director Prabhu Deva who has given blockbuster hit to Vijay through Pokkiri, tha actor replied, "We understand each other and are in perfect sync. He is very hardworking And is totally devoted to his work. After the sad demise of his son, he was completely shattered but came to the sets the day after he had completed all the rituals. When I told him to take a break he told me that work is supreme. His devotion and loyalty to his work is fantastic."

Sarwam trailer with Villu

By Moviebuzz | Friday, 09 January , 2009, 09:46

It is a major coup for Vishnuvardhan and Arya as their Sarwam trailer is going to be shown along with Ilayathalapathy Vijay's Villu, releasing on January 12.

This means the first look of the film will be seen by a world wide audiences, by piggyback riding on Vijay's Villu reach. It is a very good strategy by the producers of the film Ayngaran International, who are producing both the films.

Vishnuvardhan says: "Sarwam has shaped out well. We are in post production, with only one song to be shot, which we will complete by the end of the month."

I am a huge fan of Vijay: Nayanthara

By Moviebuzz | Thursday, 08 January , 2009, 18:56

She is smart, aggressive and knows what's best for her. Politically correct and to the point, she radiates positive energy to people around her. She may not grab headlines with her quotes but she surely knows how to keep people hooked. With a warm smile, Nayanthara chats about Villu, Vijay and more with Sify.com.

Will Prabhu Deva?s Villu be the true test of your talent?
We'll see. I don't know if Villu is the test of my talent. All I know is that, I've worked very hard like always and I'm proud to be a part of this film. It was fun and I thoroughly enjoyed working on Villu and its unit, be it producers Ayangaran, my director Prabhu Deva, hero Vijay, Vadivelu, cameraman Ravi Varman and all the assistants. It was excellent team work and we all have put our heart and soul into the film. It's a feel good film typical Vijay film, something that will make you feel alive.

How was it working with a tough task master like Prabhu Deva?
He is such a gentleman. But I think he is a tyrant on the sets, and gets the best out of his artists. He enacts every scene and is a perfectionist.

Did you enjoy working with Vijay?
First and foremost, let me confess that I am a huge fan of Vijay. I have never told him this (smiles), but that's the truth. I have watched all his films and enjoyed each and every scene in it. We shared a great camaraderie on the sets. He is a wonderful person, very comfortable to work with, is dedicated and above all very intelligent.

You have been receiving a lot of flak for taking up characters that you did in Kuselan, Sathyam and Aegan which were more of glamour. Please comment
In all these films, I had a good role with comedy, romance and songs. After all, I can only choose the roles that come to me and I put my heart and soul into each and every film that I do. It's up to the director of any film to bring out the best in the artiste, extract good work and create that magic to show them in positive light. But let me assure you that in Villu my character has shaped out well.

What is the most important lesson you've learnt in this industry?
That patience pays for a lifetime.

Tell us about your favourite song in Villu?
Well, I like all the songs but I enjoyed doing the Jalsa number that we shot in Phuket. Ravi Varman has tried out something different by doing a fantastic job with lighting, close-ups etc.

Being a superb dancer himself, were you relieved that Prabhu Deva did not choreograph any songs in the film?
Even though he gave complete freedom to all the dance masters, he was there throughout and had his eagle eyes on every step. He is a sharp observer and notices each and every expression and comes up with his suggestions if any.

What is that one thing you enjoyed most during the Villu shoot?
It was the travel. We shot in places like Pollachi, Pazhani, Karaikudi, Chalakudi, Chennai, 20 days in Switzerland, Thailand and Bangkok. The experience was memorable.

Why is Villu equated to Billa?

Behindwoods
January 7, 2009

Nayanthara, who became the talk of the town for her revealing outfits in Billa, says that she does not adhere or seek the advice of anyone while deciding on the costume for a film. The actress states that she would appear in glamorous outfits only if the role demanded so.

She adds that she would deny such offers, in case they came by her way, if the role does not require it. According to her, she uses her discretion in such issues and will not blindly follow the advice given to her.

Speaking about Villu, her venture that is due for a release soon, Nayan said that it would be a turning point in her career, as Billa was. Wonder what the actress has in store this time for her fans.

விஜய் சென்ட்டிமென்ட்... இடம் மாறிய வில்லு

பூனை பற்றி படம் எடுத்தால் கூட அது குறுக்கே போகாத மாதிரி பார்த்துக் கொள்வார்கள் தமிழ் சினிமாவில். அப்படி சென்ட்டிமென்ட் நிறைந்த உலகம் இது. இதற்கு விஜய் மட்டும் விதிவிலக்கா என்ன?

ஆதி, அழகிய தமிழ் மகன், குருவி போன்ற படங்களை சத்யம் திரையரங்கில் வெளியிட்டிருந்தார் விஜய். (சிட்டி ரிலீசும் இவரே) ஆனால் அந்த படங்களின் வெற்றியின் சதவீதம், விஜயை பெரும் கவலைக்குள்ளாக்கியது. அதனால் இந்த முறை தனது வில்லு படத்தை தேவி திரையரங்கத்தில் வெளியிடப் போகிறாராம்.

இரண்டு திரையரங்குகளுக்கும் இடையே சில கிலோ மீட்டர்கள்தான் வித்தியாசம் என்பதால், தேவியில் போடும் படங்களுக்கு சத்யத்தில் இடம் இல்லை. சத்யத்தில் போடுகிற படங்களுக்கு தேவியில் இடம் இல்லை. இந்த நீண்ட கால வழக்கப்படி இந்த முறை விஜய் தனது வில்லுவை தேவியில் திரையிடுவதால், சத்யம் தானாகவே ஒதுங்கிக் கொண்டது.

ரஜினி படமாக இருந்தாலும் கூட, ரிலீசுக்கு ஒரு மாதங்கள் முன்போ, அல்லது அவ்வப்போதோ பத்திரிகைளுக்கு படத்தின் ஸ்டில்களை வழங்குவார்கள். இந்த முறை என்ன நினைத்தார்களோ, பொங்கலுக்கு ரிலீஸ் என்று அறிவிக்கப்பட்ட பிறகும், எந்த பத்திரிகைகளுக்கும் வில்லு படத்தின் ஸ்டில்கள் வந்து சேரவில்லை. அதான் இன்டர்நெட்டில் வெளியாகுதே, எடுத்துக் கொள்ள வேண்டியதுதானே? என்று நினைத்திருப்பார்கள் போலிருக்கிறது.

-அர்ஜுன்

Villu confirmed on Jan 12!

By Moviebuzz | Wednesday, 07 January , 2009, 08:04

Ayngaran International has firmed up the release of their big budget Vijay action entertainer Villu.

The film will release worldwide on January 12, Monday.

According to Arun Pandian, the co-producer of the film: "Villu release will be on a large scale, worldwide it is releasing big in over 400 screens. The overseas alone will have nearly 155 screens, the highest ever for a Tamil film."

There is a big buzz around the film in Tamilnadu and Kerala, the Vijay heartland. It is definitely going to be the biggest ever Pongal release.

Says the US distributors, Bharat Creation: "Villu will be hitting US theaters with more than 10 prints. The show times and advance booking will be open from today (Jan 7) and the movie will be screened across all major cities in USA including Bay Area, New Jersey, Virginia, Detroit, Atlanta, Dallas, Los Angles, Columbus, Dayton, Cincinnati, Cleveland, Chicago, Boston and Connecticut".

2009- Pongal release update

By Moviebuzz | Wednesday, 07 January , 2009, 12:01

The hottest movie in the Pongal circuit is Vijay’s Villu produced by Ayngaran International. It is the only film that exhibitors are willing to pay reasonable MG, while other films they are only taking the bookings.

As of now the release schedule is as follows-

AVM’s A Aa E Ee on Friday, January 9. The buzz on the “feel good family movie” is good, due to the 360 degree publicity campaign carried out by the producers. It is releasing worldwide in 85 screens, which is impressive for a small film.

Ayngaran International’s Villu, is releasing in nearly 432 screens worldwide on Monday, January 12. It is a very wide release with 155 of them in overseas markets, the highest ever for a Tamil film. In Kerala, a Vijay fortress it is releasing in nearly 70 screens like a big Mohanlal or Mammootty film! The film releasing two days before the festival day is going to take a gargantuan opening.

Sun Pictures has already bombarded its viewers with Padikkathavan trailer. The Dhanush-Tamannaah starrer will release in 250 screens worldwide, Dhanush’s biggest ever release. A lot is riding on the film releasing on Pongal Day January 14, for Dhanush, as he is on the verge of a hat-trick of hits.

Raj TV’s Kathal Na Summa Illa has announced more than a week back that they will be releasing for Pongal and has also published a theatre listing. The film may have only a limited release on Pongal Day, Jan 14, as theatres prefer the biggies.

Captain Vijaykanth’s Engal Asan is also scheduled to release on Pongal Day, January 14, all over Tamilnadu. The film is getting more theatre bookings from B and C than the A centers.

The above five films have got theatre bookings in most places, while Guru En Aalu, Newtonin 3am Vidhi, Perumal, which had also announced Pongal release has now backed out due to lack of screens.

Villu's release announced

January 6, 2009

Vijay's Pongal release Villu recently went through the censor scissors and escaped majorly unscathed with a UA certificate. According to sources, the movie was viewed by censor officials on Saturday the January 3rd. It is also learnt that the movie will be released on January 12th, a couple of days ahead of Pongal to enable it to cash in on the holiday season.

Villu is directed by Prabhu Deva, who is also behind Vijay's hit flick Pokkiri. The movie will also be crucial to Nayan's existence who is desperate for a hit after delivering two fiascos back to back. Villu is scored by the Telugu music director Devi Sri Prasad.

Based on the buzz from the sets, Vijay, in a lighter vein, quipped that he was relieved that the cameo played by Prabu Deva in the movie was not that of a dance master –because that would mean the character Vijay plays in Villu would have to learn tough steps! Besides, the comedy track, written by Prabhu Deva had even Vadivelu in splits in the sets, insiders swear.

The evergreen formula is intact: Vijay

By Moviebuzz | Tuesday, 06 January , 2009, 13:14

On a lazy Sunday afternoon Vijay, was in his elements at his palatial seaside bungalow in Neelankarai. In an exclusive interview with Sify.com, the Ilayathalapathy of Tamil cinema, the heartthrob of millions of youngsters worldwide, speaks about his Pongal release Villu (Releasing on Jan 12) for the first time. Excerpts

There is a lot riding on your Pongal release Villu. Tell us about it.
Last evening I saw the first copy of Villu, at the Lab theatre all alone. You know that I don't hype any of my films, but if you want an honest opinion Padam Asathi Irukku (the movie is astonishing). It is a visual treat, very racy and kept me hooked for 2 hours and 30 minutes.

In what genre is the film and its one-line story?
It is in the action-adventure genre, a travel movie that moves fast from the city to the village and then goes abroad. Let me tell you very clearly there is nothing new in the storyline and it is as old as the hills. But the difference is in the packaging and presentation of the film by Prabhu Deva.

So Villu is a typical Vijay mass entertainer?
I make no bones about it, that it will have all the mass elements you associate with a Vijay film. I will not move away from my core area- making movies for the masses. Why should I tinker with the evergreen formula that has worked wonders for me at the box-office?

What's new in Villu?
The treatment, the twists and turns in the story, the comedy, the action and the songs are all packaged in an interesting manner. My audiences are the ordinary people who want to be entertained, and it will be a visual treat for them.

A lot of people say that your comedy track with Vadivel and Asin was one of the reasons for the huge success of Pokkiri. How has the Villu comedy track shaped out ?
Yesterday at the preview theatre I could hear the projectionist bursting out laughing seeing my comedy with Vadivel and Nayanthara. I tell you Vadivel and Nayan's slapstick comedy will bring the house down. The first half is rip roaring fun and frolics.

The early reports on the music of the film by Devi Sri Prasad have been pretty lukewarm. Please comment.
It was the same case with Pokkiri, before release they said that the music was average but once the film was released, it went on to become a chartbuster. As far as Villu music is concerned I'm happy, it will grow on you once the film releases.

Tell us about your intro song Hey Rama?Rama?
It is very peppy number and Asok Raj the choreographer has given me some difficult dance movements. Kushboo dances with me in this song, she is fantastic.

What about the Daddy Mummy? number, which everybody says will rock?
(Smiles) Oh my God, I should not be telling you this, but it is a sort of item number where Mumaith Khan and her sister Sabia Khan have danced with me.

Your favourite number in the film?
I like all the songs and its picturisation. Prabhu told me I look good in Nee Kobappatal Naanum.. and Jalsa, Jalsa.. songs.

The fans say your last two films did not work because of weak climax. How is the climax of Villu?
There is only one word to say about the last 20 minutes of the film- Awesome! The scenes between me and Prakash Raj, the dialogues and the way the climax unfolds and the surprise element has to be seen.

Are you doing a dual role as father and son in the film?
Why don't you wait for a few more days and see the film and then we will meet and talk?

On your comfort level with Prabhu Deva?
We understand each other and have perfect sync. He is very hardworking And is totally devoted to his work. After the sad demise of his son, he was completely shattered but came to the sets the day after he completed all the rituals. When I told him to take a break he told me work is supreme. His devotion and loyalty to his work is fantastic.

Is it the costliest Vijay film?
Yes. I would like to thank producers Karunamoorthy and Arun Pandian of Ayngaran International for making Villu on such grandeur and style. I hope that I live up to the amount of trust and confidence they have on me.

How confident are you about Villu?
100 percent. The film has shaped out very well, now it is up to the audiences to make it a hit.

The views expressed in the article are the author's and not of Sify.com.

Vijay’s Villu censored

By Moviebuzz | Sunday, 04 January , 2009, 10:56

Ilayathalapathy Vijay's Villu, has been censored on Saturday (January 3). The film has been cleared by the Regional Censor Board in Chennai with an UA certificate.

Villu produced by Ayngaran International and directed by Prabhudeva, is said to be a great action adventure, and will be a treat to Vijay fans.

The movie which has Vijay-Nayanthara-Prakash Raj- Vadivelu, has hit music by Devi Sri Prasad.

The film which was slated for release on Pongal day (Jan14), may be preponed to January 9, to get the benefit of a big solo opening. Nothing has been confirmed as of now, and by Tuesday a clearer picture may emerge.

Vijay`s first Bond film: Prabhu Deva

By Moviebuzz | Monday, 05 January , 2009, 14:47

Prabhu Deva is looking forward to another great Pongal, after 2007 Pokkiri Pongal! Now for Pongal 2009, he is ready with another Vijay film Villu. The film has been censored and he opens up in his first ever interview to Sify.com in his office. The man is cool, composed and is all smiles

You seem to be relaxed man with no tensions?
(Laughs) I am always like this. All my tensions and panic are suppressed inside. The film is ready and is waiting for a big Pongal release.

Do you think that Villu will live up to Pokkiri which was not only a huge hit but also liked by one and all?
That's what we are eagerly looking at. All of us have worked very hard and by God's grace it has shaped out well, I leave the rest to the audiences. The Vijay magic plus the songs, action and comedy will be the highlights.

What do you mean by Vijay magic? Is it the looks, action or the overall packaging?
Everything is in sync. Let me tell you that Vijay has not looked so good till date. If you thought that in Pokkiri he was dashing, then in Villu, he is wow!

Like the scarf that he had in Pokkiri what does he have in this film?
(Smiles) He still has the scarf and a Maan Kombu (Deer horn). He dances, fights, delivers dialogues and does comedy with style and élan. I would say that it will be Vijay's first Bond kind of film.

Why do you say that it's like a Bond film?
Villu has a charming stylish hero, and there is high octane action scenes in water and air never seen-before in Tamil cinema, comedy, glamour and above all smart packaging. Overall it will be one of the most memorable and exciting films releasing this Pongal.

What about Nayanthara? Is she something equivalent to Bond girls?
Yes… you said it! She is a major asset for the film. Her comedy scenes with Vijay and Vadivel are rocking. The love scenes with Vijay and her on-screen chemistry with him has worked out well. She is an actress who takes interest in every department of film making and to be very frank, I was amazed by her commitment and hard work. Not only me, everyone in the unit says that. Her dancing has improved so much and she rocks in the film.

Vijay and Vadivel comedy is said to bring the house down. Please comment.
Yes.. Devi Sri Prasad who did the re-recording was in splits after he watched the film. I have always been a big fan of director Siddique who has made some outstanding comedy films in Malayalam and Tamil. In Villu I have been influenced by his kind of comedy and I think, it's worked out well.

How have the songs been picturised?
(Laughs) Thank God I have not choreographed them and so they have all turned out well. Five dance masters- Raju Sundaram, Shobi, Asok Raj, Baba Bhaskar and Dinesh have worked hard and the songs will be a rage once the film releases.

So what's it that keeps you grounded in spite of being a big name in the Indian film industry?
(Smiles) My family keeps me grounded. Moreover, we all have been brought up by my parents as God-fearing good human beings.

Anushka - Vettaikaran effect

January 3, 2009

Anushka has suddenly become most wanted in Kollywood. Her only previous film in Tamil was Rendu after which there has been more than a two year gap during which she has been busy in Tollywood. But now, she has been signed up for Vijay's Vettaikaran and Karthi's Siruthai following which her stock in Kollywood has shot up once again and she is now set to join other actresses like Nayanthara, Trisha and Ileana who are wanted in both Tamil and Telugu.

Telugu films of Nayanthara, Trisha and Ileana are in demand for dubbing into Tamil. Their popularity with Tamil audiences is the reason behind this demand. A couple of Trisha's Telugu films have been released and Nayanthara's movies too are awaiting release, albeit low profile. Now, even Anushka's Telugu films are being sought to be dubbed and re-released in Tamil. Looks like many people here are sure about her getting very popular with Tamil audiences.

Villu audio sells like hot cakes

Villu audio CDs have slowly become hot cakes in the stalls. Initially the songs were not much impressive but the repeated broadcasting and vigorous campaigns have made the audio worthwhile to listen

According to the trade circuit, the music of Villu is expected to be a chartbuster, especially the intro number of Vijay 'Hey Rama...'

The Daddy Mummy song is a titillating mass number, which is already a favourite with Vijay's fans. The highlight of the film will be a sizzling dance number with Vijay and Nayantara. He has also done a song with Khushboo and an item number with Mumaith Khan and her sister Sabia Khan! Villu is all set to hit the screens this Pongal.

Interestingly, Devi's music in Vijay's Sachin was also a big hit.