Chennai cheers for Gilli and Hussey

Cricinfo staff
April 23, 2008

Loud cheers for Michael Hussey in Chennai, but who is this new Gilli?

Gilli, but not Adam: As you walk down from the Madras Cricket Club gate to the media entrance, there are dozens of posters on lamp posts and walls. All of them feature a young man in various smiling poses.
This is Vijay, matinee idol for a new Tamil generation. His biggest hit was called Gilli and we're reliably informed that it has nothing to do with the greatest wicketkeeper-batsman of all time.

Superstar vs Superstar

Amol Karhadkar, KR Guruprasad , Hindustan Times
April 23, 2008

Chennai team star ambassador Vijay is no stranger to press conferences. But for journalists from outside Tamil Nadu, it was surprising to see the humility with which the Tamil actor spoke to the media. He even stood up to answer the questions but was told by the journalists to sit down.

He did not, however, answer when asked if he would ever want Dhoni to play any of the roles in his movie. But he said that he has met Dhoni once and the cricketer apparently told him that he had seen the actor a couple of times on TV.

Dhoni on his part said that Vijay was humble and hoped to catch up with other Tamil actors and stars later on during the IPL. In the end Vijay was asked if he was big enough to pull in the crowd he said, “Well, I don’t know, but we have Dhoni who is also a superstar.”

For those alien to the Tamil film world, Vijay is arguably the biggest star here after Rajnikanth and Kamal Hassan.

Dhoni appreciates me - Vijay turns emotional

Cinesouth.com
- 23.04.2008

It is a healthy practice for cricket stars to enjoy films and film stars to woo cricket players. In that respect, Indian captain Dhoni and actor Vijay exchanged appreciations for each other.

Vijay is a brand ambassador for the Chennai Superkings team in the 20-20 tournament. Tonight Chennai Superkings will play a match at the Chepauk grounds. Meeting the media on this occasion, Vijay spoke about Dhoni's appreciation. “His game has taken gigantic proportions in global cricket. I was curiously excited when I had the opportunity to meet him. Those are unforgettable moments.
Dhoni

When he met me, he listed my films that he enjoyed. He also sang from memory the lyrics of the dance number I had done. Being a player with a star status, Dhoni was simple and affectionate without putting on airs. I am very happy for the healthy friendship between us," said Vijay in total appreciation of Dhoni.

Dhoni was also present at this meet.

Ilayathalapathy keeps his promise

By Moviebuzz | Tuesday, 22 April , 2008, 09:45

When Nayanthara was unceremoniously dropped from Kuruvi, after being signed for the film to be replaced by Trisha, she felt peeved. At that time Vijay had assured her that she will play heroine in his next film.

Vijay a man of few words kept his promise and has now cast her as his heroine in his next film to be directed by Prabhu Deva. The film rumoured to be titled Singam (though both Vijay and Prabhu Deva denies it) is all set to roll in mid June.

Nayanthara is relieved that atlast that she is going to do a film with Ilayathalapathy, with whom she had appeared in special song sequence Kodambakkam Area… in Sivakasi earlier.

The untitled film is being made like a racy entertainer with all essential ingredients one would associate with a Vijay film. The film is being produced by Ayngaran International. Vijay-Nayan combo has already become hot after they became the brand ambassadors for IPL Chennai Super Kings.

Kuruvi Audio Launched

AT THE LAUNCH: On a musical trip

The audio release of the film "Kuruvi" was held at the Little Flower Convent. Music for the film has been composed by Vidyasagar. Vijay and Trisha play the lead pair and the film is directed by Dharani. The audio of the film was released by Vikram and was received by Vishal.

Said Vikram, "For me the best song in the album is `Thaen Thaen Thaen' written by Ugabharathi and sung by Udit Narayan and Shreya Ghoshal. The other one is `Palanathu Palanathu'. Added Vishal, "Vijay and Trisha share a good chemistry in the film."

Said Vidyasagar, " Dharani and I have done five films together but this one is different. "Kuruvi" is a laugh riot with action and sentiment in equal measure."

Ashish Vidyarthi said that "Kuruvi" was his third film. Producer Udayanidhi Stalin said after watching "Ghilli" he wanted to make a film. "I saw "Ghilli" and decided to do a film with Vijay."

In his speech, actor Vijay said he was confident that the movie would be a hit. "Udayanidhi came to me as producer but now he has become a good friend." Dharani and Udayanidhi presented a cheque to the Sathya Jothi rehabilitation unit of the Little Flower Convent. The programme was compared by actor Citi Babu.

Dhaam Dhoom Vs Kuruvi now in stores

Kollywood Today
April 21st, 2008

What’s cooking so hot in Kollywood? If you ever had this question in your minds, then the title has an answer for it. With none of the releases making it big in both songs as well in box-office, here comes the other series of flicks that are yet to hit the screens by the next month.

Audios for these films have already hit the stores and a great competition is happening between these albums in the town now. Though, actors have their levels at different levels, when it comes to audio, music directors are considered as the heroes of the show.

Well, it’s Vidhyasagar and Harris Jayaraj who the heroes are now making their best scores among the listeners. Both the albums are good and reveals of their respective touches. But, the audio that has been rocking not just in IT companies and BPOS, but among the tea shops and auto rickshaws is none other than Kuruvi.

The feet tapping Kuthu songs will have a clear picture of how it would look when Ilayathalapthy shakes his legs on the screen.

Is it exciting? Sure, for I am too. All that we have to do now is keep ourselves enjoying with the songs and get prepared to whistle through the songs in theatres once it releases.

'Singam' gets underway

Singam follows Kuruvi
Galatta.com

Prabhu Deva and Vijay are reuniting after Pokkiri for a megabudget entertainer titled Singam, to be produced by Ayngaran International Works for the movie is under way, with Vijay and Prabhu Deva striking poses together for a photo session in AVM Studios on Sunday.

The heroine is yet to be finalized. Prabhu Deva has finished polishing the story and script. Shooting will start once the Hindi version of Pokkiri starring Salman Khan is completed.

'Singam' gets underway
IndiaGlitz [Monday, April 21, 2008]

After 'Pokirri', Prabhudeva and Vijay formally come together for another movie titled 'Singam'. Produced by Ayangaran International, the movie will be a racy entertainer made in a mammoth budget.

The photo session for 'Singam' was held in Chennai at the AVM Studios on Sunday in which Vijay and Prabhudeva took part.

Having completed the story and the script, Prabhudeva is now on the look out for heroines. He will commence 'Singam' once he completes the Hindi version of 'Pokirri' starring Salman Khan.

Kuruvi Audio Review - Behindwoods

Music review By Malathy Sunderam

This movie has kindled a lot of interest, primarily because this is Dharani's follow-up directorial venture with Vijay and Trisha after the smart, action packed super hit Ghilli. This `Action-Adventure' also promises to be a scorcher, judging by the theme song and the unusually fast paced, rhythm oriented songs composed by the usually melody-conscious Vidyasagar!

(The name 'kuruvi' is a slang term used generally for persons who run contraband goods from country to country. Here,Vijay, the( unsuspecting ) hero ,who works for a courier company, gets trapped into performing the role of a kuruvi as a result of which he gets caught, and his jailed. How he extricates himself from all the charges thrown against him forms the major part of the story).

Six songs have been tuned by Vidyasagar.

Happy New Year
Lyrics: N.Muthukumar, Vocals: Sunidhi Chauhan,Yogi B, Dr.Burn

Seems to be a celebration of New Year. A peppy fusion of rap and regular foot-tapping music. Sunidhi leaves you breathless with her vocal power. Yogi.B's stylish rapping is fun to listen to! Apart from the Tamil phrases, we hear some others too which we don't quite comprehend. Is it Malay? No clue! The refrain 'Taanaane Tannanaane' makes you want to shake your hips too!


Dandaana Darna
Lyrics: Kabilan, Vocals: Sangith Altipur.

The singer has a vibrant voice. The song is very fast paced. You can almost visualize Vijay doing all the complicated steps this song demands! The lyrics reflect the very sentiments that Vijay easily identifies himself with---bonding with the masses! The slightly unsophisticated down-to-earth person that he wants to project himself as comes through here. The message' I'm good as long as you don't mess with me' (which probably is central to this story) is brought out in this song.


Thaen thaen thaen
Lyrics: Yugabarathi, Vocals: Udit Narayan, Shreya Ghosal.

A melodious duet evidently picturised with Vijay and Trisha. Possibly filmed in New Zealand. The soft romantic sentiments running through the song have been sensitively tuned to dreamy beats. Some respite for the ears now! Udit sings with his usual joie-de-vivre (in his accented Tamil, of course). Shreya deserves a very big pat for her pukka pronunciation. She is a joy to listen to. The instrumental interludes tease and cajole and some vague notes akin to Scottish pipes are very pleasing.


Palaanadhu, Palaanadhu
Lyrics: P.Vijay, Vocals: Vidyasagar, S.Rajalakshmi

A song that cannot be definitely categorized! Some strains of Sufi music, some Arabic notes, some Bhangra stuff have all been blended in. The female voice packs quite a punch. Insipid verses from P. Vijay- which is surprising. The instruments drown out the words.


Theme Music
Lyrics: N.Muthukumar, Vocals: Pravin Mani, Dr.Burn, Ranina, Suvi

Probably forms the backdrop to the 'escapades and chases' that are a part of this movie. Features varied rhythms and some complex music. Use of electric guitar adds to the sense of speed and thrill.


Mozha mozhannu
Lyrics: P.Vijay, Vocals: K.K. , Anuradha Sriram

Funny words that grab your attention at the start. What is 'Mozha, mozha' supposed to convey? A slow start that breaks out into a speedy rendition. Anuradha brings her own brand of 'rocking sexiness' to the song. Words that suggest a lot of swirling movement are strewn throughout the lyric. Gay abandon is what the song conveys. But quite noisy, too. 'Smoke on the Water' by Deep Purple seems to cross your mind!


Verdict:

Vidyasagar seems to have reinvented himself as a fairly noisy composer here! The metallic twang that accompanies the songs is not too pleasant. Maybe the plot calls for such treatment, but you come away wondering whether Vidyasagar heartily relished doing this. The idea seems to have been to give whatever was expected out of the Ghilli team.

For the masses, by the masses.

Kuruvi Music Review - Galatta

Padma Iyer [April 19, 2008, 3:18:47 PM]

Kuruvi, directed by Dharani and produced by Udhayanidhi Stalin, has raised a lot of expectations. The hit team of Ghilli, comprising Vijay, Trisha, Dharani and Vidyasagar, is coming together for the romantic action movie. Recently, the audio release of Kuruvi took place in a grand fashion in Chennai. Now, Vidyasagar's rocking numbers have added to the fans' jubilation.'Happy New Year', the first song in the album, bursts with joy and gusto. Sung by Sunidhi Chauhan, Yogi and Dr. Burn, the song has a colourful mood and an infectious energy level. Towards the second part, the tempo picks up and it truly becomes a musical carnival!

The Kuruvi theme track is an interesting blend of different styles of music. One can recognize a bit of folk style here and a hint of western touch there in its tunes. Dr. Burn, Praveen Mani and Ranina render it.

'Mozhamozhannu' begins with Kay Kay and Anuradha Sriram's voices. It is a typical folk song with a traditional folksy touch. Replete with heavy beats and novel lingo, the song is punchy and in Vijay's signature style. Anuradha's voice modulates with an appropriate accent and tempo. Kay Kay's vocal support is a value addition to the song.

Rajalakshmi and Vidyasagar just rejoice while singing 'Palanadhu Palaanadhu'. Based on a pacey tune, its lyrics praise the hero and make every one dance.

'Thaen Thaen Thaen' is in Udit Narayan and Shreya Goshal's honey-sweet voices. A lovely duet, the song is based on a subtle and soothing tune and has very melodious background music.

'Dandaana Darna' is a dapankoothu sung by Sangeet Haldipur. The song's lyrics are a lure and certainly warrant praise. Cheery and motivational, the song celebrates the country's natural wealth and resources.

The Kuruvi album is a collection of peppy dance numbers and caters to listeners' favourite tastes. What more can a Vijay fan ask for?

Kuruvi Music Review - Indiaglitz

Kuruvi - A loud chirp
IndiaGlitz [Saturday, April 19, 2008]

Dharani, Vijay and Vidyasagar share an excellent rapport between them. It was evident in 'Gilli', which had a catchy music and went on to become a blockbuster.

Now the trio comes together again for `Kuruvi'. Obviously expectations are high on the movie. The audio of the movie promises to live up to all the hype and hoopla.

The album has six tracks including theme music. Vidyasagar has managed to come up with songs, which are bundle of energy and foot-tapping. The likes of Yogi, Dr Burn, Anuradha Sreeram, Sangeeth Haldipur and Vidyasagar himself have lent their voice.

Produced by Udhayanidhi Stalin, `Kuruvi' has songs which are foot-tapping and energetic.

Happy New Year ( Sunidhi Chauhan, Yogi, Dr Burn)

Music composer Vidyasagar makes a heady start. A perfect opening in the album, it sets the right mood for the listeners. Acclaimed rap singers Yogi and Dr Burn render the song in the company of Sunidhi Chauhan.

Penned by Na Muthukumar, it has a pacy music with addition rhythm. The rap interludes in between are very catchy.

Dandana Dara (Sangeeth Haldipur)

A perfect 'kuthu' song. Oozing with energy all through, the song has everything a front-bencher would jump and shake his legs in theatres. With Vijay on screen, such high-pitched song is sure to woo audience.

Sangeeth Haldipur is a perfect foil to render the song. A lyric by Kabilan, which glorifies the hero, is adequate.

Thaen Thaen (Udit Narayan, Shreya Ghosal)

It is a soft romantic number. Udit's open-throated voice in the company of Shreya Ghosal's mesmerizing way of rendering of the duet sticks to our hearts immediately.

This song sticks to a pattern. It flows free and smooth from the beginning. The soft beats and good use of guitar in the interludes are good. Yugabharathy's lyrics are noteworthy.

Paalaanadhu Paalaanadhu (Vidyasagar, Rajalakshmi)

Vidyasagar has tried to marry East and the West. The song begins with typical Chennai percussion instruments. However it shifts gears to take a western beat with Vidyasagar and Rajalakshmi, going all guns to render a song which is sure to find a place in all dance floors. In between the Punjabi Bhangra music is used well by Vidyasagar. Pa Vijay has penned the song.

Mozha Mozhanu (KK , Anuradha Sreeram)

It is customary for every Vijay film to have a peppy song which will be laced with fast beats and racy tune. Mozha Mozhannu is one such number which Anuradha Sreeram and KK rendering the number with amazing energy.

Pa Vijay's youthful lyric gets subdued in the heavy music of Vidyasagar. But the use of additional percussion instruments and racy rhythms are the major highlights of the song.

Gilli's magic triumvirate returns!

The film also sees the entry of politician Karunanidhi's grandson and M K Stalin's son, Udhayanidhi Stalin, as the film's producer.
Politicians debuting in Tamil cinema is not a new thing. In the past M Karunanidhi, MGR, Jayalalitha, Vijayakanth and Sarath Kumar have all entered filmdom in a big way.

Dharani has made two hugely successful films, Dhil and Dhool with his classmate Vikram as the hero. Both studied Bachelor of English at Loyola.
Like the audio launches of his earlier films, Dharani also released Kuruvi's album at the Little Flower Convent, a school for the speech and hearing impaired.

Vikram also turned up for the event as also the young action hero Vishal.
Dharani has a penchant for small titles -- Dhool, Dhil and Gilli. Kuruvi follows the same pattern. The film's tag line is 'Where eagles dare. So go figure'.

Music director Vidyasagar who made the smash hit Appadi Podu from Gilli has also done the music for Kuruvi.

'Kuruvi' equals two 'Gilli': Vijay’s hopes

Cinesouth.com
- 17.04.2008

'Kuruvi' audio release took a different and simple turn in that the songs were introduced by the press people and a donation was given to the school for the deaf and dumb.

Minister MK Stalin's son Udhayanidhi produces the film 'Kuruvi.' The film that unites Dharani and Vijay for the second time for which Vidyasagar has composed music.

The audio release function was held yesterday at the Little Flower School for the Deaf and Dumb. "I have always held the audio release functions only here. Because I know how I suffered when I had my leg problem. I thought I should make these children happy." Saying this, Dharani made a donation on behalf of the producer to the school authorities.

The five songs featuring in the film were introduced by the media persons as Dharani's close friend Vikram, Vishal, heroine of the film Trisha, Vivek, Ashish Vidhyarthi and London Karuna attended the function. Vikram then released the audio cassette that was received by Vishal.

Three out of all songs in a Vidyasagar composed film would always be melodies. But in 'Kuruvi', except for one song, all other numbers are of fast track. Vidyasagar, has for the first time sang a song in this film.

As he was in a hurry to leave, Vikram spoke first. He said, "There is no doubt that Vijay-Dharani combination has always been a super hit. The chemistry between Vijay and Trisha is also good. I listened to the songs and I liked all of them. My best wishes for the success of the film." Having said that, Vikram took leave.

Vishal said, "In all the parties I take part, I always dance to the songs of Vijay. For another four years, I will be dancing to the tunes of 'Kuruvi' songs".

The last to speak, Vijay said, "The four of us - director Dharani, I, Trisha and Vidyasagar worked in 'Gilli.' I am hopeful that this film would be a success like that film. When I am acting in a film, my inner conscience will tell me that a film will be a success. For this film too, I feel like that. 'Kuruvi' will be twice a success like that of 'Gilli'.

Producer Udhayanidhi spoke first and Dharani gave a vote of thanks.

Kuruvi’s low profile launch!

By Behindwoods News Bureau.
April 16, 2008

Kuruvi’s audio launch was held today at the Little Flower Convent in Chennai sans the usual fanfare despite the buzz surrounding the movie. The low key affair, held in the school for hearing and speech impaired, witnessed minimal star participation.

As a novel attempt, the audio was released to senior journalists from renowned dailies like Daily Thanthi and The Hindu. Gangadaran from Daily Thanthi and S.R. Ashokkumar from The Hindu released the album to the students of the academy. Representatives from other media houses like Sun TV also participated in the event. Vijay and Sangeetha, Vikram, Vishal, Trisha, producer Udhayanithi and his wife, and director Dharani are the other celebrities spotted at the event.

Addressing the gathering, director Dharani revealed that he has reason to hold the event in a school for physically challenged. “Once, I met with an accident and was immobile for a few months. That was when I realized how tough it was to lead the life of a physically challenged person,” he reminisced.

Dharani also declared that Kuruvi has every aspect to woo the audience. Kuruvi is scored by Vidyasagar and is slated for a May release.

Glitterati Of Stars At ‘Kuruvi’ Audio Launch

IndiaGlitz
[Wednesday, April 16, 2008]

The glittering stars of Kollywood gathered at the Little Flower Convent in Chennai for the audio launch of ‘Kuruvi’ on Wednesday.

Directed by Dharani and produced by Udhayanidhi Stalin, grandson of Chief Minister M Karunanidhi, the movie has musical score by Vidyasagar. Vijay, Trisha, Dharani and Vidyasagar, who formed part of the blockbuster ‘Gilli’ before, exuded confidence that ‘Kuruvi’ too will become a big hit.

Speaking at the audio launch, Udhayanidhi Stalin said, 'I decided to turn a producer after seeing ‘Gilli’. I approached Vijay and he agreed to be part of my maiden production venture'. Heaping laurels on Udhayanidhi, Vijay said, 'He is a commendable producer, who has a penchant for quality entertainers. He knows the nuances of film-making'.

Vikram said, 'Vijay and Dharani share an excellent rapport. ‘Kuruvi’ will be another feather in their cap.' On his part said, Vishal said, 'The songs are catchy and enthusiastic. Vidyasgar's tunes are always catchy'.

Actors Vivek, Ashish Vidyarthi, producer London Karunas, actress Trisha among others were present on the occasion.

Kuruvi - The Audio Review

It is a very well known fact that Vijay's film songs are 50% audio and 50% visuals. Yet another known fact is that songs of Dharani-Vidyasagar combo are strictly for mass, and it has been proved through films like Dhool, Ghilli and Bangaram. That said, the trio of Vijay-Dharani-Vidhyasagar have delivered in "Kuruvi" more than what is expected out of them - An album that satisfies all Vijay fans and a good time pass for neutral fans.
Peppy, loud and full of energy, it is the right mix for Vijay fans if you leave aside senseless comparisions with things of past. Anyone who listens to the album in a low mood is sure to get an high spirit, to say the least. It is definitely a break away from the usual class-melody routine that Vidhyasagar has been through for the past couple of years.

Now over to the songs....

Happy New Year
Singers: Sunidhi Chauhan, Yogi B, Dr.Burn
Lyrics: Na. Muthukumar

The album starts with a loud bang with this number which I call in my terms as "Techno Kuthu". Sunidhi singing Tamil folk is something new and she is brilliant as ever. The Tamil Rap by Yogi B and Dr.Burn is equally enjoyable. The heavy percussions provide the perfect accompaniment for the song.

Rating: 8.5/10

Dandaana Darna
Lyrics: Kabilan
Singers: Sangeeth Haldipur

This is the third time in a row we get to hear Vijay's intro song in a different voice than the usual Shankar Mahadevan/Tippu. Use of new voice renders a fresh feel to the song and Vidhyasagar has rightly taken a note of this aspect. Sangeeth Haldipur, the famous Marathi music composer/singer and part of Channel [V] Pop stars 2, does the honours this time. For a first time non-Tamilian singer, he has managed to do a good job and delivered what is required of him - right feel, energy and heavy throated singing. What Pokkiri Pongal is for Pokkiri, Dandaana Darna is for Kurvi.

Rating: 8.5/10

Thaen Thaen Thaen
Lyrics: Yugabharathi
Singers: Udit Narayanan, Shreya Ghosal

Vidhyasagar's melodies always have a unique feel to it and he is at his usual best here too. The hindustani tune with Arabian style of orchestration gives the song a lilting touch. Shreya Ghosal yet again proves that nothing is sweeter than her voice, while Udit Narayanan too does a good job if you can forgive his awkward diction at a few places. This is one song that has the right elements to attract anyone after first few listenings. A slow poison.

Rating: 9/10

Palaanadhu Palaanadhu
Lyrics: Pa. Vijay
Singers: Vidhyasagar, S. Rajalakshmi

If you loved Thottu Thottu Pesum Sulthana(Edhirum Pudhirum) or Ithunoondu Muthathile(Dhool) of Dharani-Vidhyasagar combo, you will surely love this too. Composed in Bhangra style with lots of techno beats mixed with the Punjabi Dhol, this song will leave you dancing for the exitement it provides is magical. Thankfully, Vidhyasagar has chosen the right song for him to sing and Rajalakshmi of "Kokku Para Para" fame does a good job too.

Rating: 8/10

Theme Music
Lyrics: Na. Muthukumar
Singers: Praveen Mani, Dr Burn, Ranina and Suvi

With varying paces, possibly to be used at various situations in the film, this a rocking music bit filled with lots of mass lyrics, that will leave Vijay fans mesmerised. You may get a feel of Kabadi Kabadi of Ghilli westernised, but this song has more than that to offer. The heavy guitar fused with traditional folk percussions does what it is intended to do - rushing up the adrenaline.

Rating: 8/10

Mozha Mozhanu
Lyrics: Pa. Vijay
Singers: K.K, Anuradha Sriram

The least best is saved for the last. This is a song whose success is heavily dependent on the picturisation because the music has nothing great to talk about. Vidhyasagar-KK-Anuradha combo of the unforgettable Appadi Podu has done a mediocre job here. The disappointment leaves you searching for Srikanth Deva or Dheena as Guest composers in the credits. Completely folk in all aspects, this is clearly targetted for front benchers. Nothing without a reason, visuals will speak on that.

Rating: 6.5/10

Pluses: Fresh voices, simple and neat presentation
Minuses: Lyrics are mediocre, songs are targeted only at the youth

Overall Rating: 8/10

Verdict: Rocking!!!