Friday, November 18, 2005
Sivakasi - Movie Review 9
Courtesy: rediff.com
Shobha Warrier November 08, 2005 15:50 IST
The Tamil Diwali release Sivakasi is like a pack of assorted crackers, with almost all the varieties made in the famed Sivakasi town of Tamil Nadu. It has sparklers, flower pots, 'atom' bombs, Lakshmi vedis… every cracker available in the market, and all of them used well.
Perarasu, the director of Sivakasi told rediff.com that Sivakasi is not a typical Vijay film, but the truth is that it is a typical Vijay film with all the ingredients in it, in the right proportions to satisfy all his fans. Like all his recent films Vijay plays a hero who growls and fights like a tiger, dances like a dream, is adept at tickling the funny bone, sheds tears for his mother and sister -- all in great style.
What more do his fans need? Is the story of Sivakasi any different from Perarasu's own Thirupachi or any other Vijay film? The answer is no.
The film which starts in Chennai moves to the village in the second half where Sivakasi (that's Vijay's name in the film) goes to save his mother (Geetha) and sister from his elder brother (Prakash Raj) who is evil incarnate. There are several songs with his lady love (Asin) and a number of fights with the baddies.
Like Perarasu said in his interview, in a nutshell, Sivakasi is about how a bad son treats (ill-treats) his mother when she is old, and how another son cares for her and saves her.
Vijay has excelled in all departments. Asin, who got a lot of applause in Ghajini, does not have much to do in Sivakasi. But Nayanthara, who drew a lot of flak for her item number in Ghajini, is the actress who is getting all the whistles and claps in Sivakasi for her latest. She just sizzles in the song! If Asin scored over her in Ghajini, it is Nayanthara who gets even with Sivakasi.
Yes, Sivakasi is made strictly for Vijay fans. The fact is, nobody associated with the film, the producer or the director or Vijay himself, proclaims this film to be 'different' or 'pathbreaking'. They have made the film to cater to a particular audience, those who have made Vijay's earlier films like Gilli, Madurai, Thirupachi, etc huge successes, and the same audience will make Sivakasi another blockbuster. The fantastic opening the film had all over Tamil Nadu is proof of that.
http://www.rediff.com/movies/2005/nov/08sivakasi.htm
Thursday, November 17, 2005
Sivakasi - Movie Review 8
Author: Sai Venkat, Owner-Moderator, actorvijay_fans@yahoogroups.com
Just finished watching Sivakaasi last night! Just can't forget those hours of pure entertainment that I had watching Sivakaasi. From first scene to last scene, it was totally enjoyable! Far less violence than Thirupaachi, Far more enjoyable like Thirumalai and Ghilli, this is one of Vijay's most entertaining movies!
Story:
We all know its nothing new! Vijay is known for giving the same storyline with a different feel! Its the story of a welder who falls in love with a rich girl and then goes back to his village to his family to settle the problems of his cunning elder brother!
Music:
Srikkanth Deva has done a great job! All songs are superb. The background score could have been a little more better but who cares? His songs are what makes the movie more and more enjoyable! He definitely deserves another chance to work with Vijay!
Other Cast:
All did their job well. Vaiyapuri, Geetha, Lakshana, Chiti Babu, MS Baskar, etc all did well... The little boy from Kadhal had too small a role to play and his antics from Kadhal was missing!
Direction:
Perarasu has a formula and he perfectly goes by it! Entertain the audiences with unadulterated heroism, good fast songs, romance, action, comedy, etc all form ingredients of his formula! And he has the best ally in Vijay who does it to the hilt! This combination surely spells super success and I wish they do one more movie together but somewhat deviating from their formula but not at the cost of entertainment!
Prakash Raj:
He does as much as what he did in Ghilli! I cant understand how this role is small for Prakash Raj. He had good importance and had something to act for! He is one of the best villians today and he has been utilised by Perarasu well. We should appreciate Vijay for persuading Prakash Raj to act this role out!
Nayanthara:
ROCKING! My liking for Nayanthara is going up! She looks so beautiful in the song and with Vijay, she looks even good. Her dance was so good that I watched the song again for her dance with Vijay! She has definitely proved Perarasu's words that she has danced superbly in the song!
Asin:
Hema or Homa??? She is one of the rare heroines these days who can hold her own in action movies. Even actresses like Jyothika and Trisha couldnt hold their own in movies like Thirumalai, Thirupachi, Arul, Saami, etc but Asin has done her job very well. She has taken care that her role doesnt go unnoticed! Her chemistry with Vijay, needless to say, is so cute. The best scene was when she comes to Vijay's shop and accuses him of saying I love you to her sister Homa.. And the way she challenges Vijay and then turns her head three times after saying "Idho Paar, en thangachikku mattum edhavadhu aachu....". She is superb.
Ilayathalapathy:
After all praising above, I am surely losing words! Anyways, this is going to be a small review on Vijay in Sivakaasi. Because I am tired of praising him from Kushi till Sachein. So my praise on him for Sivakaasi is going to be short! He has done to his best and has lived up to the role of Sivakaasi. Cant imagine any other hero in this role of his! His acting, his expressions, his fights, etc all are superb. Chinna Thalaivan namma Vijay kalakittaru indha Padathula!
Overall Review: 9.4/10
WATCH IT AGAIN AND AGAIN! GET THE DVD FOR SAVING IT@
Wednesday, November 16, 2005
A smart work
[Wednesday, November 16, 2005]
Vijay is known for nifty and swift actions in his films. In real life too, he has proved to be equally smart.
Following the burning of his effigy by advocates protesting against his new film Sivakasi, actor Vijay quickly put things in perspective, and said that he always had a great regard for advocates and never hurt the sentiments of the legal fraternity.
Shooting at Vishakapattinam for his Adhi, Vijay said, 'I am shocked to know that advocates had burnt my effigy holding protests in Chennai.
‘Every movie would have some comical relief or a comedian providing some relief. The advocate character was also created with a sole intention by director Perarasu to provide some fun in the movie and not to hurt the sentiments of anyone'.
He also recalled that he played a youth who fights for educating people about the laws of the country in Tamizhan and in Sukran. ‘I act as an advocate, who helps a couple, who gets assaulted by some influential men in the society'.
Urging the advocates to end matter amicably rather than hold protests, Vijay reiterated that his character in Sivakasi was created with no ulterior motives.
That’s all, your honors.
Tuesday, November 15, 2005
My mother and wife cried" - Vijay laments
- 15.11.2005
"Those who burn effigies today will set fire to real people tomorrow," pens writer Charu Nivedita.
Effigies and photos of Vijay, Perarasu and others were set aflame at Chennai High Court yesterday. This act was committed by members of the court who are responsible for peace and justice. The violence and fury with which they acted is equal to any public offence.
The reason for their outrage is a scene in 'Sivakasi' where a lawyer is made fun of for comedy sake. Coming to know of this incident, Vijay who is at present shooting in Vishakapatnam, has sent an announcement.
"In cinema, there is always a good character for a hero, a bad character for a villain and a character used for comedy purpose from olden days to present times. The lawyer character in 'Sivakasi' is also one such character," says Vijay by way of explanation.
He pointed out instances in 'Thamizhan' and 'Sukran' where the pride of the law profession could be dented. Here are some points by Vijay that deserve mention.
* In 'Sivakasi' only the actor does what I say, not the director or producer. (Then why burn my image?)
* After rigorous screening by the tough Censor Board, 'Sivakasi' was released. (Should not the protestors then protest against the Censor Board?)
Vijay's third question is very valid. Lawyers cannot pass verdict on themselves.
"Our lawyer friends are getting worked up about scenes used purely for comedy. I respect their sentiments. My mother, wife, family and my fans who cherish me more than life itself, are upset to see my effigy being burnt like that, when I am alive and well in Vishakapatnam. Is there a medicine to heal their pain?"
Do the fiery law men have an answer to this?
Monday, November 14, 2005
ENDRENDRUM VIJAY...
Yesterday late night I watched Jaya TV's Endrendrum Vijay's special programme featured during release of Sachein. They showed it on Astro Vaanavil at 11.30-12.30pm. Many of u had watch it before, but for those staying outside India might not have seen it. So, I am writing
it out with some of the interesting conversations of Vijay. He is questioned by four girls. They asked many questions like...
Q: What do you think about Social Activites by stars?
<<>>Vijay: I'don't know about other, but i'm doing just for self-satisfaction. The successful person i'm today is because of the public. So, i think i have to do for them. Thats all, its not to
gain publicity or anything for popularity.
Q: Why do you continously doing commercial movies which known as
Vijay's Formula?
<<>>Vijay: There is thing called as Vijay's Formula. Actually I'm not the one who choose to do commercial movies. But my fans and the people's expectation is towards commercial movies only. So, i stick to commercial movies and my aim is to give what audience
wants. As long as audience loves to watch commercial movies i'll continue to do commercial movies. May be there will be some similarities between the films but audience enjoying commercial movies very much.
Q:Would you have come to acting, if your parents not in this cinema industry?
<<>>Vijay: I start to have interest in movies when i was 10 years. From that age i used to see lots of movies. And more over, my family cinema background has increase my interest in cinema. I still would have come to cinema, even if my parents not in cinema industry. But may be i would have gone to 10-15 cinema company and strugle few years before enter into this industry. With my parents support, my entrance to cinema is a bit easy. But when i was first tell my parents about my interest to enter cinema, i had do lots of arguments with my parents to convience them, because they don't want me to emter into in this industry as they know how hard it is to get a stable position. But i'm very much clear about my ambition to enter into cinema.
Q: Do you feel that your status as actor, disturb your normal life?
<<>>Vijay: I feel i missed few things like going to theatre with full crowd for Rajini sir movies, riding my bike on road, and thing that i used to do before enter cinema. But, i would not say it as
disturbance to my life. I enjoy my life as usual.
Q: Do you feel that you have missed few thing by entering into this industry?
<<>>Vijay: Yeah, certainly like my education, going arround freely. But i'm doing what ever i wish to do to enjoy my life as normal. Even if i'm not an actor, i'll still carryout my life as what i'm
doing today.
Q: Do ever wish to do more character roles?
<<>>Vijay: I wish to do, but previously i did Kannukul Nilavu. it didn't get good reponse, i'm very much happy when doing the movie but i'm very much upset with the result. So, i decided to not doing it and i feel that my fan not expecting that kind of movie from me.
Q: What do you expect from directors coming approach you? Do you tell them what thins that need to be in your movies?
<<>>Vijay: I don't interfece in story. But i used to ask for at least one "Khutu" song for my fans and two fights, thats all. I dont have any experience in story, i don't interfece in things that i
dont know. The direcors now days, knows what the trends in the market and what audience expect. I they are more knowledgable then me. I just leave it to them and concentrate on acting.
Q: Why did you do ghilli which is a remade? What do you think about dir.Dharani? Which is your fav song in Ghilli?
<<>>Vijay: I saw the original version of ghilli in telugu, i'm impressed with fast moving screenplay of the movie and decided to do it. Dir.Dharani has done a even greater job in Ghilli, he lots of changes to the screenplay. I really loved the movie. There are many mass songs in ghilli, but, my fav song is the Arjunar Villu situational song. Even now i use to play the song when i'm driving with Sanjay.
Q: What is your expectation when go to watch a movie as normal audience?
<<>>Vijay: It depends, like for Annamalai, i expect to watch Rajini sir sytle, punch dialouge. For, Autograph i dont expect to see fights all, but i'm very much enjoyed the movie. and i think of my
autograph in the end of the movie.
Q: How may autograph do you have?
<<>>Vijay: I also have, my first autograph when i was in 8th std, then when i was in 12th std, then few other when i'm in college. It's normal like other guys.
Q: Do you take care of all your costumes in movies, because now lots of youngters following your stlye of clothing?
<<>>Vijay: I like to wear a t-shirt and shirt on top of it and unbutton the shirt. I like to wear it very much. Now my wife is taking care of my costumes.
Q: Which is your fav song that you sing in your own voice?
<<>>Vijay: I like the song "Hey Pappa" from Badri, the picturisation also very cute. I also like the song "Coca Cola brown color" from Bagavathy.
Q: Do you have any memorable incident or naughty things you have done?
<<>>Vijay: I remember one thing, when i'm in college day, we go for a tour in train. We going with girls. And there is two guys coming from other compartment and teasing our college girls. So, i and my friends (10 of us), beat that guys. But, when arrive to station, the two guys come with 40 guys and beat us. Then i realise that i shouldn't have done it. Some my friends even get bandages when going back.
........
It's an hour programme, but most of things we already know. Hope u guys who missed the show, enjoy reading it.
- STEVE
Saturday, November 12, 2005
"There can be only one Superstar" - Vijay
He says that his only aim is to earn a good place in the hearts of his fans. "There can be only one superstar and that can be none other than Rajinikanth," says Vijay in all humility.
Galatta.com
Sivakasi - Movie Review 7
Courtesy: The Hindu
Genre: Action
Cast: Vijay, Prakashraj, Asin
Director: Paerarasu
Storyline: As a boy the hero runs away from home, but circumstances make his return essential. Bottomline: Another commercial venture so typically Vijay.
An apt title for the Deepavali season, Sri Surya Movies' `Sivakasi' (U) is firepower from first to last. Sivakasi, the hero, is a metaphor for light, fireworks and everything bright. Shekar V. Joseph's camera makes sure that you don't miss the symbolism at any point. Paerarasu takes on the onus of story, screenplay, dialogue, direction and lyrics and completely in tune with the taste of the masses does a fairly neat job of it. Only that the invariable protraction of the climax and the villain's predictable remorse tire you.
Sivakasi (Vijay) owns a welding shop and is a firebrand who fears none. His nonchalance irritates the villains. Hema, the rich daughter of a jeweller, falls in love with Sivakasi, but surprisingly the affair faces no parental interference, only approval. Just when things look hunky-dory, Sivakasi's childhood unfolds in flashback and the hero realises that he has more pressing things to attend to in Nattarasankottai, the village he ran away from 15 years ago.
Vijay scores
For Vijay's diehard fans `Sivakasi' is a typical treat. The hero knows very well that without much change in make-up and appearance he can have his faithfuls eating out of his hand. The larger-than-life image, excellent agility in dance and stunts, and histrionics help Vijay score with the ease of a veteran. The actor could work wonders if he teams with the likes of Shankar or Cheran.
As always, Asin looks gorgeous and makes best use of the opportunity offered. Prakashraj as the consummate villain is at home in his role of Udayappa, local MLA. Instead of sending a chill down people's spine, this bad man ends up making you feel sorry for him! Paerarasu's characterisation is so. But even here, Shakuntala as his evil, yet bird-brained mother-in-law is a major sore point. Even Udayappa deserves a better deal!Lakshana's homely looks enhances her portrayal of Sivakasi's sister. Some of Srikanth Deva's peppy refrains remind you of numbers of yore, and re-recording in `Sivakasi' is more of din. `En Deivathukkae ... ' has appealing tune and lyric.
With an immense dose of the Vijay brand of family sentiment and action, `Sivakasi' should cruise through with ease.
MALATHI RANGARAJAN
Friday, November 11, 2005
Vijay wins in the race with Vikram
- 11.11.2005
In the race of you or me, Ilaya Dalapathy has overtaken Chiyan.
To prevent the 'Sivakasi' crackers from going damp, the god of rain has given a brief respite. The falling collection, picked up after the rains stopped and Sivakasi slowly started breaking records.
Vikram or Vijay? We at last know who the winner of the Deepavali race is. In the first week of release, Vijay's 'Sivakasi' yielded a collection of 2 crores in Madurai alone. They say it is more than the rights for the Madurai area.
Theatres in the outskirts of Chennai made 5 ½ lakhs per day, whereas Chennai city theatres made 7 lakhs minimum.
From A to C centres, 'Sivakasi' has received good reception. Released at the same time, 'Majaa' has not received the expected attention. There was more expectation of Anniyan and Asin has not scored well either. Only Pasupathy stands out in the film.
Now that 'Sivakasi' has taken the coveted seat at the box office, 'Majaa' is struggling along in a corner. If this is what has befallen even Vikram, one need not wonder at the plight of Dhanush and Srikanth. They were seen nowhere near the box office.
One can say that Sivakasi hit the fabulous sixer that Sachein missed!
Vijay thrashes talk of superstar status
November 11, 2005
Vijay is the top star today in terms of collection and mass appeal. He works hard to maintain the status and his films are assured of good business. He has his finger on the pulse of the audience and gives them what they want. Amidst recent reports that he had become quite arrogant or distant because of his star status, he refuted in a recent interview that he was essentially a simple and introverted person. He was not flamboyant.
Thursday, November 10, 2005
With the formula intact - Review from The Hindu
TYPICAL VIJAY WITH ALL THE FIREWORKS: Sivakasi.
Sivakasi
Genre: Action
Cast: Vijay, Prakashraj, Asin
Director: Paerarasu
Storyline: As a boy the hero runs away from home, but circumstances make his return essential.
Bottomline: Another commercial venture so typically Vijay.
An apt title for the Deepavali season, Sri Surya Movies' `Sivakasi' (U) is firepower from first to last. Sivakasi, the hero, is a metaphor for light, fireworks and everything bright. Shekar V. Joseph's camera makes sure that you don't miss the symbolism at any point. Paerarasu takes on the onus of story, screenplay, dialogue, direction and lyrics and completely in tune with the taste of the masses does a fairly neat job of it. Only that the invariable protraction of the climax and the villain's predictable remorse tire you.
Sivakasi (Vijay) owns a welding shop and is a firebrand who fears none. His nonchalance irritates the villains. Hema, the rich daughter of a jeweller, falls in love with Sivakasi, but surprisingly the affair faces no parental interference, only approval. Just when things look hunky-dory, Sivakasi's childhood unfolds in flashback and the hero realises that he has more pressing things to attend to in Nattarasankottai, the village he ran away from 15 years ago.
Vijay scores
For Vijay's diehard fans `Sivakasi' is a typical treat. The hero knows very well that without much change in make-up and appearance he can have his faithfuls eating out of his hand. The larger-than-life image, excellent agility in dance and stunts, and histrionics help Vijay score with the ease of a veteran. The actor could work wonders if he teams with the likes of Shankar or Cheran.
As always, Asin looks gorgeous and makes best use of the opportunity offered. Prakashraj as the consummate villain is at home in his role of Udayappa, local MLA. Instead of sending a chill down people's spine, this bad man ends up making you feel sorry for him! Paerarasu's characterisation is so. But even here, Shakuntala as his evil, yet bird-brained mother-in-law is a major sore point.
Even Udayappa deserves a better deal!Lakshana's homely looks enhances her portrayal of Sivakasi's sister. Some of Srikanth Deva's peppy refrains remind you of numbers of yore, and re-recording in `Sivakasi' is more of din. `En Deivathukkae ... ' has appealing tune and lyric.
With an immense dose of the Vijay brand of family sentiment and action, `Sivakasi' should cruise through with ease.
MALATHI RANGARAJAN
Sivakasi - Movie Review 6
Courtesy: Cinesouth.com
One man alone stands up to confront the thug Pallakku Pandian's gang that is running amok in a T Nagar shopping area. That is Vijay.
This dialogue takes place between them…
Pallakku Pandi: Hey, what is your name?
Vijay: Sivakasi!
Pallakku Pandi: I am asking your name and you are saying the name of a place?
Vijay: That is the place they manufacture crackers. This (indicating himself) is the place it will blow up.
At this the gang attacks him from all sides, Vijay runs true to his name by displaying his limbs in fighting them. What happens then? The fans celebrate the cracking action of Sivakasi. Naturally we would like to know the background of such a strong person like Vijay in the story.Running away from his village to Chennai when he was 10, Vijay is managing his welding workshop. Chitti Babu and M S Bhaskar are his sidekicks.
In the process, the man who melts iron falls in love with the well to do Asin. In a confrontation, Asin asks, "Do you know what family life is? Do you know what affection is?" The next minute Asin gets a slap on her face from Vijay. This is followed with a flash back of Vijay's life and his announcement that he will go to his native place, and come back with his family to her house to ask for her hand.
There he meets his elder brother Prakash Raj and ends his cruel behaviour towards his mother and sister and how he then comes to ask for Asin's hands forms the rest of the narrative.
Action followed by character depiction, coupled with comedy, added with sentiments over mother and sister, and a few mannerisms, Vijay is following in the footsteps of Rajini's style.If falling in love with Asin and the associated comedy is hot in the first half, plotting to unseat his brother Prakash Raj and emoting with the status of his sister Lakshana and mother Geeta, are sweet in the second half.Asin scores double century in the scene where she cheats Vijay by claiming that she is a twin.
In the song 'Ada ennatha sollvenungo…," Asin appears in a Brahmin getup and her acting makes the fans ask for more.Even with money, position and gang power, when Prakash Raj / Udayappan becomes tame before his aunt Sakunthala ('Dhool' Swarnakka), the feeling is one of disappointment.
When Prakash Raj and Vijay bargain with one Rupee and two Rupees, Ganja Karuppu says, "Why don't you round off the amount to 10?" and offers 10 lakhs. "But I thought you meant 10,000," says a flabbergasted Prakash Raj and puts his hand over his mouth. It went down well with the audience.
Besides, M S Bhaskar appearing as a lawyer getting into all kinds of cases, adds to the comic movements. If Srikanth Deva's music for songs "Kodambakkam area…," Ada ennatha sollvenungo..' and 'Vaada vaada thozha…' are like snacks, 'Idhu enna idhu enna...' and 'Deepavali deepavali…' are like the sweet gulab jamun.It is tiring to listen to 'Aaraaro aariraaro' chorus repeated in sentiment scenes.
Cameraman Shekar V Joseph should be lauded for keeping good pace with director Perarasu's screenplay.Stunt master Rocky Rajesh must be commended for his hard work in the composition of the fight sequences.
Director Perarasu has dried the gift pack of crackers from 'Thirupachi' and offered it in 'Sivakasi'.
''Sivakasi' - explosivepulses:
Wow... Buss...
Vijay,Asin,Energetic dance tunes
minuses:
Story full of loopholes,Too many logic defying mistakes
Wednesday, November 09, 2005
Sivakasi - Movie Review 5
Producer: A.M.Ratnam
Director: Perarasu
Cast: Vijay, Asin, Prakash Raj, Murali, Geeta
Music: Srikanth Deva
Director Perarasu and Vijay have yet again used their old formula in 'Sivakasi' too. They are fond of films with larger-than-life character, forceful dialogues, stunning action, comedy, glamour and good-hearted hero with loads of mother and sister sentiments. The duo repeats this formula in 'Sivakasi' again. But class audience who are seeking quality entertainment would not enjoy this film. However, they have used lots of mass masalas to cater to the mass audience.
Sivakasi (Vijay) lives in exile at Renganathan Street, T.Nagar in Chennai for 15 years. He later goes back to the village to rescue his mother (Geeta) and sister from the clutches of his evil brother (Prakash Raj). He has a rich and modern girl trying to tempt him.
Perarasu has indeed done the reverse of 'Tirupachi' in 'Sivakasi'. The story in 'Tirupachi' starts with rural background in the first half and ends up in the city in the second half. But in 'Sivakasi', the story has an urban set up in the first half and then later turns to village.
The film works only because of Vijay's superstar image. He carries his character very well with a good sense of humor. Vijay and Asin's comic encounters are the asset of the film. They have an excellent on-screen chemistry. Prakash Raj's role as Vijay's brother is fine but Geeta's role is dull. Comedians M.S Baskar, Chitti Babu and others make the audience have fun. Nayantara looks glamorous and attractive in the item number.
Sunny V.Joseph's camera work is good. GK's artwork in the film is commendable and Srikanth Deva's songs also go well with the mood of the film. On the whole, the film is a good masala film. It has delivered the goods for the mass audience.
Tuesday, November 08, 2005
Interview: Ratnam reigns Kollywood
A.M Ratnam needs no introduction. He is the ultimate top producer in South Indian films. Most of his films are blockbusters. And he knows the interest and psychology of the masses. The audience seldom betrays him, as he delivers what they want. Yet again, his latest release 'Sivakasi' with Vijay in the lead is a super hit. He is no doubt a winning producer. Here is an excerpt from the interview with the veteran filmmaker.
Excerpts from the Interview:
The film is a huge success. It had a wonderful opening all over the world. The collections on Diwali, the opening day was 100 percent in all the theatres and it remained the same even on the following day, which was a working day. That's fantastic.
Do you think it will do better than 'Tirupachi' and 'Ghilli'?
It is too early to say about the fate of the film but it is surely going to become a blockbuster. I think it will be as big as 'Ghilli', as the rush for tickets is awesome even for the afternoon shows.
How comes you produce so many mass masala films that interests the audience?
Things are changing at a very fast pace these days. And it is not easy to make mass masala entertainers today. The ingredients have to be right and good if a film is to work. 'Sivakasi' worked because of right mix by director Perarasu and Vijay's huge image.
How do you rate Vijay's performance in the film?
He is superb and has the ability to carry the show all by himself. He is a well-known face and commands the biggest opening in Kollywood. You won't believe that 'Sivakasi' opened better than that of Mammootty or Mohanlal's film in Kerala this Diwali.
My next film 'Bheema' in Tamil with Vikram in the lead has already started. Lingusamy is directing this mass film scheduled for next year's summer release. My other Telugu film 'Bangaram' is on the verge of completion. Dharani is the director of the film.
Monday, November 07, 2005
Sivakasi` super, `Majaa` miserable!
| By Moviebuzz | |
| Monday, 07 November , 2005, 10:49 | |
| The Diwali box-office results are out- only Sivakasi is a super hit and the rest have all been washed away by rains and lackluster content. Vijay’s Sivakasi, in spite of heavy rains crackled the most at the Tamilnadu box-office. It took a 100 percent opening in the first three days all over. At Kolathur Ganga theatre, a suburb of Chennai the film grossed an amazing Rs 7.26 Lakhs on Diwali day! Meanwhile, the other biggie Majaa is turning out to be damp squib at the box-office. The trade feels that the film lacks nativity and the audience felt letdown with Vikram’s character with hardly any heroism like a Remo or Anniyan in Anniyan. The collections of Majaa has been sliding from day one. Another Diwali release Athu Oru Kana Kalam is a total wash out and we will not like to reveal the miserable collection figures! Perusu with newcomers is also a flop. |
Sunday, November 06, 2005
5 best openers in Kollywood!
By Moviebuzz
Saturday, 05 November , 2005, 12:42
In one-day cricket, an opening batman who can hit all round the stadium in the first 15 overs of the game is very crucial for the team’s victory! The best openers in the world are Adam Gilchrist, Sanath Jayasurya, and our own Sachin Tendulkar. They can not only dictate terms but also change the course of the match.
Similarly in Tamil cinema, there are superstars who command a great opening. Their films open big with larger number of prints and during opening weekend (Fri to Sun) they ensure a large turn out irrespective of the quality or content of the film.
In fact, a superstar’s ratings are purely based on how much revenue the actor can generate and how fast he does it. In cricket, the team that scores maximum in the first 15 overs stands a better chance to win while in Tamil cinema, the hero who collects the best in the first 3 days is the real superstar!
Tamil cinema’s top 5 openers-
No1:- Rajnikanth
The best opener that Kollywood has ever seen! Even a bad film of his, takes a one-week opening instead of the regular three days! If the film carries good reports, then he gets repeat audience from day-one itself, something unheard of in Indian cinema. This superstar has pulling power in neigbouring states like Andhra, Kerala and Karnataka including overseas. The production cost (minus his salary) of his films is recovered in the opening weekend itself.
No: 2- Vijay
The 31-year old actor is the fastest rising star in Tamil cinema who is fast catching up with the real superstar. But unlike Rajnikanth, Vijay does not have a market in Andhra but in Kerala, Karnataka and overseas he is very popular especially among Sri Lankan Tamils. His weekend opening is the best among young heroes and afterwards the film will run purely on the strength of its content.
No: 3-Vikram
He has a never-say-die spirit and climbed up the ladder on his own hard work over years. A late bloomer, Vikram has opened up the Telugu market and created a new road map for Tamil films all over South. He appeals more to city audience and has a fantastic opening in cities. He also sells best when he combines with good directors like Shankar, Dharani and Bala.
No: 4- Kamal Hassan
The rise of Vikram has eaten into Kamal Hassan’s market of character-driven roles that click with the upper-class city audience. Still Kamal is way ahead in comedy genre which unfortunately does not go down with the masses as they are not crass and loud. Kamal films also take a good opening only in cities and his citadels are Kerala, Andhra, and overseas, which is now being threatened by the young brigade.
No:5- Surya
The year 2005 saw the rise of Surya as an action hero. He emerged as a winner with Mayaavi taking a good opening though the film flopped. Now his Ghajini took a fabulous opening similar to a superstar film. He is also fast emerging as the teen icon among youth of Kerala and overseas, which augers well for him.
This rating is purely based on the box-office success of the respective actors in the last 15 months. Please note that there are a host of other actors who too command good opening.
The views expressed in the article are the author's and not of Sify.com.