Vijay's punch dialogue in 'Pokkiri'

Cinesouth.com
- 12.01.2007

Vijay is feeling enthusiastic since the minor hurdles with the Censors have been overcome for 'Pokkiri.'

The Censor had stipulated that some fights, dance movements and dialogues have to be edited from the footage. The importance of Prabhu Deva's scenes were explained and without much harm, 'Pokkiri' has been cleared.

Usually Vijay sees his films with his wife. But he has seen 'Pokkiri' alone because of his tension. That's because his earlier film 'Aathi' flopped and he wants this film to go well.

When the film ended, Vijay was immensely pleased. It was better than he had expected. He's most pleased with his punch dialogue, "Once I make a decision, I don't listen even to myself!" This dialogue is well suited in the film. Already the songs "aadungadaa enna suthi..." and "vasantha mullai..." are hits. Once the film is released, Vijay is positive that the songs will be hits in all channels. The Vijay-Prabhu Deva combination is supposed to have produced some lovely dance sequences.

What else does one need for 'Pokkiri' to be a hit?

Pongal advance booking status – the race begins!

The Pongal race at the box office is already underway. The releases are yet to hit theatres but the competition has already begun and going by the look of things it is going to be really interesting. All three movies are in the action genre and this puts everyone on an even keel. It is going to be a test of star power at the box office.

In the race this time are Vijay's Pokkiri, Ajith's Aalwar and Vishaal's Thaamirabarani. The films have received very good reports from advance booking counters throughout Chennai city. It looks as if at least one of the three films can be declared a hit even before it opens on screens for Pongal.

Pokkiri and Aalwar are releasing on the 14th and Thaamirabarani is releasing on the 15th and all three have already cashed in on the lengthy Pongal weekend if reports are to be believed. According to trade sources, all tickets for Pokkiri in Chennai city have been sold out till the 21st of the month. That is one week of shows booked in advance. Out of this the first two days have been taken up by Vijay fans exclusively.

As for Aalwar, it too has received a very good response with tickets being sold out till the 18th. A shade behind Pokkiri, but with one more day to go before release, things are expected to improve.

Tickets for Thaamirabarani will not be available until after the 17th of the month. However, noon show slots remain open. But, even this response (three days of shows booked) is very good for an actor who is doing only his fifth film.

One can't help wonder whether the ticket price revision by the government has a major role to play in the whopping bookings received. As for Pokkiri, the euphoria is only understandable as a
Vijay film is releasing after one year. The last was Aadhi for Pongal 2006. The real picture of hit, average and flop will emerge only after the first week. Till then, the Pongal releases will bask
in the glory of advance bookings.

Source: Behindwoods.com

Industry sources - Pokkiri is racy

www.behindwoods.com

January 12, 2007

Pokkiri team is all agog that the movie has turned out to be a wholesome entertainer. Industry sources suggest that Pokkiri is packaged with all racy elements to make the movie a commercial potboiler.

Meanwhile, censor officials have granted a U/A certificate for the movie.

That apart, the officials have also suggested whopping 20 cuts for the movie. It is learnt that Prabhudeva and Vijay held discussions with the officials to reduce the number of cuts.

Some of the significant scenes that could not evade the scissor hands are the scene showing someone illegally photographing a girl in the bathroom and another gory scene.

Vijay's Tamil Murasu Interview translation

Courtesy: STEVE

Vijay is in happy mood with Pokkiri Pongal celebration.

My last pongal release was Aathi, then I didn't get good story. I was waiting for a good story. This pongal I have Pokkiri. I watched it alone, I very satisfied. My wife hasn't watch it. I'm waitng for her opinion on the movie. My son maybe have royal look but he is pakka local. It is only "koothum kummalam" at my home when the "adungadha enna sutthi" and "vasantha mullai poole" songs from Pokkiri are played.

Since I don't act too close with heroine in my movies, my wife used to make fun of me and asked you dont you properly hug them. When she said so, I got shocked.

I don't like to have a preview show before release and ask people's opinion. I watch my movie once before release and lock the film-box in my office. I join previews of my movie only after the real release.

In Pokkiri, the punch dialogue that I repeat is "Naa Oru thadhave mudivu pannitta, enn pechai naane kekka maadhen. (Once I decided, I don't even listen to my own words)

My next movie is "Alagiya Tamizh Magan, after that a movie with London Karunas. This year I have planned to do three movies. When my movies release in Tamil, I have planned to "dub-it" and release it in Telugu too".

After marriage I always ask for my wife's opinion. I can't do anything without her. So, naa pondaati dhaasannu kooda sollalam. I learned from my own experience, the truth of manaivi oru manthiri.

I dont know whether I'm a good actor or not. But, I have to make sure that those people who believe in me earn profits. I will work hard to make sure all my producers, distributors, and theatre owners earn profits.

Vijay's Alagiya Thamizh Magan is releasing on coming August 15th.

PONGAL JACKPOT: Pokkiri

Action, sentiment and romance

S.R.ASHOK KUMAR - The Hindu

PONGAL JACKPOT: Pokkiri

The harvest festival is round the corner and so are the releases of a few Tamil films, an annual affair. Since Pongal falls on Monday, some will hit the theatres even today.

High on action and romance is `Pokkiri,' starring Vijay and Asin. Circumstances force the hero to align himself with the villain but not for long. Watch out for the climax that has a surprise. Sri Kanakarathna Movies's `Pokkiri,' produced by Ramesh Babu, is the 45th film of Vijay.

Prabhu Deva, who has directed two films in Telugu, makes his first attempt in Tamil. "The film has love, sentiment, fight and the acting of Vijay. We have shot the film in different locations here and in foreign countries," said Prabhu Deva, who is confident of the box office success of the film.

Vijay found working with Deva a wonderful experience. "I was happy to work with Prabhu Deva, the man who has given two hits in Telugu. The expectations are high and we have worked hard to satisfy our fans. It is a year (`Aadhi' was released last Pongal) since my film has been released and my fans must be looking forward to it and I have tried not to let them down," he said. Mani Sharma has scored the music while Nirav Shah has handled the camera. V. Prabhakar has written the dialogue. The screenplay-direction is taken care of by Prabhu Deva.

“Pokkiri is different from my recent films”, says Vijay

www.behindwoods.com

January 11, 2007

The recent films of Ilaya Thalapathy have almost been of the same action genre. Stunt and fights were the core theme of films like Sivakasi, Adi and Thirupachi. Amidst such films, his Sachin was a soft romantic film. But this was not well accepted by his fans and he once again reverted to action movies. But his Pongal release Pokkiri is said to have romantic elements along with action in it.

There is a specific lift scene which is reported to be shot for a longer duration with Vijay and Asin. This scene would have all the ingredients of soft romance and light hearted comedy in it. Vijay in an interview had mentioned that this sequence is sure to be the highlight of the movie. On anti hero and different subjects, he does not mind trying them as he had already tried a similar one in “Kannukkul Nilavu”. But the film was not much welcomed among his fans. Hence he has decided to work in films which are liked by his fans, favorable to his producers and distributors. Good strategy indeed!

"I like the title of superstar!" - Vijay

Cinesouth.com

- 11.01.2007

Vijay has spoken about what he thinks about the superstar title.

Last year, Vijay had only one film 'Aathi.' Even that flopped. VijayThis year, he is determined to work in at least 3 films.

"I have slogged 7 months for 'Pokkiri.' It will definitely reap rewards." Vijay is to act next with Shriya and Namitha in 'Azhagiya Thamizh Magan' directed by Bharathan.

Fans and media have been speculating that the next superstar after Rajini could be Vijay. "Any man would like to be number one in his field. I am also slogging to become number one. I am happy when people call me the next superstar. But I don't know if I deserve it!" says Vijay, putting the ball in the people's court.

If all the 3 Vijay films in 2007 do well, he would be worthy of the title!

Perarasu and Vijay come together again

IndiaGlitz
[Wednesday, January 10, 2007]

Perarasu and Vijay share a good rapport. Their Tirupachi and Sivakasi were money-spinners. Now the two would come together again for a movie in the middle of this year.

Buzz is that the movie would be produced by Ayngaran Internationals. Perarasu will handle the story, screenplay, dialogue, direction and also pen the lyrics for the movie.

According to Perarasu, "Works are on in this regard. We are getting ready with the script."

Perarasu says, "I have been getting enough offers from Telugu to do movies. However I prefer to do a couple of more films in Tamil before entering Tollywood. Hope my project with Vijay kicks off this year and goes on to repeat the magic of Tirupachi and Sivakasi."

Vijay's Interview to Dinakaran

Translation of Vijay's Interview from Dinakaran newspaper dated 10th Jan:

Pokkiri is going to be Pongal treat for everyone. I have worked hard for the past 7 months. Besides the story, we have given importance to the screenplay too. After Pokkiri I'm going to act in Azhagiya Tamizh Magan. I have planned to have 3 releases this year.

If there is good script, I would like to act as anti-hero. But at the same time we can't do it all the time. Previously I have done it in Kannukul Nilavu, but it doesn't come out well.

Right now my plan is to act in movies which make my fans and audience happy, and bring profit to my producers and distributors.

I'm happy with the latest opinion saying that I'm the next superstar. people normally want to be number one in the field that we are in. They do lots of hardwork for that. So am I. I didn't plan and work to get the next superstar title, but it has come to me. I don't know whether I deserve it or not.

Pokiri censored

IndiaGlitz [Tuesday, January 09, 2007]

Paruthi Veeran and Pokiri slated for release on Pongal day have been censored. Both the movies have been given 'UA' certificate by the Regional Censor Board. Pokiri stars Vijay and Asin in the lead roles and is directed by Prabhu Deva. Expectations are high since Vijay makes his appearance after a gap of one year.

Indiaglitz Exclusive: Chat with Vijay

IndiaGlitz [Tuesday, January 09, 2007]

Pokiri is for my fans: Vijay "Pokiri will be a real entertainer for the audience and would keep my fans in good spirits," says Vijay. The actor, in an exclusive chat with Indiaglitz, said, "The movie is a sincere remake of the Telugu blockbuster hit (Pokiri). We have not experimented anything. But the film has come out really well. With all ingredients for an entertainer finding its place in the movie, Pokiri will be a value-for-money film." Pokiri, directed by choreographer-actor Prabhudeva features Vijay and Asin in prominent roles. Vijay, who uses his words with utmost caution, said he has imitated Prabhudeva's body language for the role. Vijay, who is known for grace and charm in dancing, says, "When I combine with Prabhudeva, audiences are bound to expect a lot with respect to choreography. I have done my best though I cannot match Prabhudeva's dancing skills," Vijay adds with genuine modesty that characterises his persona. Wishing his fans a very happy Pongal, Vijay adds, "The harvest festival is very close to my heart. It is a day of films. I wish to have my movie released on the day every year." Asked as to why there was such a big gap after Aathee, Vijay said, "Any career will have its ups and downs. After Aathee, I took time to spot the right script that suits my image.I happened to see Pokiri and I was immediately impressed. It was sheer coincidence that Prabhudeva was made the director. All things worked out well and today the movie is over and ready for release." Vijay, though he utters his every word with caution, has an air of confidence and excitement about him as he says these words. On his passion to do Telugu remakes, Vijay says, "I accept movies which attract me. I prefer those which are catchy and make the audience happy. After all, one has to entertain the masses and that, is the priority." Vijay has emerged as a mass hero today with a huge fan-following. When asked to comment on his present status as the mass hero in the industry, he says, "I chose this profession at my own will. Initially, I did a few romantic entertainers. Again it was my conscious decision. But then, I like only this kind of entertainment," in a crisp manner and a clear tone. Vijay owes his success to his father S A Chandrasekhar and his fans. According to him, "My father, being a veteran director, helped me have an easy entry to the industry. He kept faith in me and produced several movies in the initial stages of my career. He also taught me the importance of maintaining punctuality and decorum in my work." The film industry has its own share of occupational hazards. On the tremendous stress levels among the actors in this competitive industry, Vijay says, "Every actor has to cope with a lot of stress. I prefer to bust the stress by indulging in introspection, talking to myself and ensure that I do movies which are racy and entertaining. The stress and fear helps me compete for supremacy in this industry." True, considering that stress sometimes brings out the best in a person. Of course, this doesn't hold true for everybody but Vijay's words imply that he puts even stress to productive use. The actor also chose to pour encomiums on his contemporaries. According to him, he admires the self confidence in Ajith, dedication to excel in Vishal and the versatility in Suriya. These comments on his contemporaries speak volumes about his magnanimity. Ready to commence his next, Azhagiya Thamizh Magan, Vijay says, "I am a die-hard optimist and I always strive for success. I just do my best and leave the rest to the Almighty." Simple words from a popular hero, who has enthralled many with his performance and prudence. We wish Vijay all the very best on his forthcoming Pokiri and also wish that successes continue to give him company.

Pokiri suffers a set back

www.behindwoods.com
Dec 08, 2006

Asin’s films suffered a minor setback owing to a minor shoot spot injury that happened on the sets of Pokkiri. Asin is full of activity these days – thanks to the shooting of her movies back to back. While shooting for Pokkiri, Asin – under the instruction of Prabhu Deva – danced without her shoes on for a dance sequence.

While filming the dance sequence with Vijay, an iron nail fastened in the wooden planks of the set pierced her foot making the lady scream with pain.

Asin’s father who was in the sets immediately moved her to the hospital where she was given first aid. It is reported that the doctors advised her not to dance for 10 days and to take rest. Sources in the Pokkiri sets also stated that Asin will only arrive for dubbing and the dance sequence is been rescheduled. Pokkiri will now wait for Asin’s return.

Comparison and analysis of Aalwar and Pokkiri

Behindwoods.com
January 06, 2007

The year 2007 is on the roll and so are the movies that are ready to hit the screens on the auspicious Pongal day. The most expected of them being Aalwar and Pokkiri which are said to be the clash of the titans of Kollywood viz Ajith and Vijay. Will Ajith repeat his Varalaru success this time or is it Vijay’s time to set the cash registers ringing?

While that could only be known after the release of those movies, we decided to do a brief analysis of these two films. Read on to find out more.

Distribution details

Both the movies have been sold keeping the old ticket rates in mind. Pokkiri has been sold for 12 to 15 crores while Aalwar has commanded around 9 to 12 crores. Now that the government has slashed down the ticket rates, it is yet to be known what the distributors’ demand would be to make up for the money. The distributors could only make enough money if the movies sustain at the box office for a longer duration.

Audio

Trade pundits remark that Pokkiri’s songs are sure to become chartbusters. With a consummate combination of Prabhudeva, the then dance master and Vijay who is an accomplished dancer, Pokkiri’s songs are expected to be foot-thumping numbers. Another advantage with Pokkiri would be that Mani Sharma’s recreation of his hit numbers of Telugu Pokkiri in its Tamil version.

Aalwar, with Srikanth Deva’s music has hit the charts already and the songs would be noticed only after the release of the movie.

Opening

As far as the opening is concerned, both have registered an equal opening in all the centres. As stated earlier, for Vijay this film comes after Aathi that sank without a trace while for Ajith, Aalwar follows after his recent success of Varalaru.

Advantage

Pokkiri, as we all know, was a blockbuster in Telugu which is being remade in Tamil with Prabhu Deva as the director who is synonymous with continuous hits in Telugu with his direction. The name of the game is; would it be as easier for Prabhu Deva to repeat his success in Tamil?

Aalwar is directed by Chella who was trained under S J Surya. While a refreshing style of narration is expected in the movie, will the debutant director please the likes of Ajith fans? On the other hand, the script of Aalwar has reportedly awed the film fraternity.

Heroine

Asin is fortunate enough to be featured in both the films as heroines and is shuttling between the sets of Aalwar and Pokkiri these days. While being slowly branded as a lucky mascot, the success of these movies would spearhead her market value.

As these two films have the most popular heroes of Kollywood combined with all the entertainment quotients, it is expected that Aalwar and Pokkiri are sure to be a great grossers in terms of revenue generation.

Audio sales-Vijay film creates record!

- 06.01.2007

'Pokkiri' is slated for a Pongal release, but this film of Vijay has already created a record.

Ever since many FM radio stations were started, audio sales started to decline. Whatever TV channel you turn on, film songs are being screened. Also, it is possible to download songs from the Internet.

Because of the above reasons, the sales of audio cassettes and Cds have been affected.

At a time when it is a little difficult to even sell music by AR Rehman and Ilayaraja, the audio sales of 'Pokkiri' has created a record.

Like for any other Vijay film, the Five Star Audio produced the usual number of audio CDs and cassettes for 'Pokkiri.' Amazingly, everything got sold out and the company is producing another lot now to meet demands. And it's the fourth time the order is being repeated! The number could cross a lakh, says Five Star Audio. The audio sales could catch on more after the release of the film.

'Pokkiri' has started his Pongal account!

Cinesouth.com

What do Vijay,Vikram and Maddy share in common

www.behindwoods.com

January 04, 2007

They get enough and more of public attention from all quarters. The paparazzis chase them for the best of their candid shots all the time. It is no wonder that they want to keep their family undercover from the prying eyes of the media. Vikram, Vijay, Madhavan, and Devayani are a few to quote for instance.

Vikram’s family has never witnessed the flashy camera lights and Vijay, Madhavan, and Devayani on the other hand has restricted the media to photograph only their spouses. Snaps of their children have never been released to the media. Following the league, it is learnt that Dhanush has decided not to release his child’s snapshots to the media. Which means folks that the Tamil fans should wait for a solid decade or two for the star prodigies to make their debut.