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.

Anushka confirms her role in Vettaikaaran

Wednesday, 31 December , 2008, 11:23

Actress Anushka has confirmed that she will be paired with Vijay in his 49th movie, Vettaikaaran.

Speaking about returning to Tamil cinema after just one Tamil movie to her credit, two years back, she says “I’m glad that I’m back with a bang this time. My role in Vettaikaaran will be something that will show me as a capable actress as well. I play a medical student in the movie opposite Vijay”

The movie will be directed by debutant Babu Sivan.It is learnt that it has two heroines, and the hunt is on for the second heroine. Talks are on with one of the top actresses in Kollywood for the role.

Vijay, whose Villu is a Pongal release, is expected to take a short break and get back to work with Vettaikaran, which will start rolling from February.

Top 5 heroes in Kollywood

At number 3 Vijay sits precariously as his Kuruvi has done only average business. But what makes him attractive is that the trade thinks he is still a safe bet with his mass masala potboilers. Added to that he has an awesome fan network including Sri Lankan Tamils across the globe who swear by him, as Villu turns red hot.

Source: http://sify.com/movies/tamil/imagegallery/galleryDetail.php?hcategory=13733818&hgallery=14822678

Vijay’s assent to Silambarasan’s director

December 26, 2008

Silambarasan’s Silambattam is doing good business all over and needless to say the crew is on cloud nine especially director Saravanan. Special shows have been arranged for almost all popular heroes who have praised the director and hero’s work.

In one of an exclusive show conducted for Ilaya Thalapathy, director Saravanan had made use of the opportunity and requested him to work under his direction. Impressed with Saravanan’s work, Vijay is also reported to have given his assent to hear a script. Perhaps Vijay may soon team up with Saravanan. We will keep you posted.

Anushka to be Vijay's lady love

Hot Telugu actress Anushka will play the role of Vijay's lady love in his yet to be launched movie Vettaikkaran.

Produced by AVM Balasubramanyam, under the AVM banner the film is Vijay's 49th movie. He will do his 50th movie under his own production banner.

Vijay has completed the shooting of Villu recently and is now busy finalizing the cast and crew of Vettaikkaran.

This title is considered to be a prestigious one, as it was earlier used by the legendary actor MGR in the sixties for one of his block buster movies.

Anushka who is very popular in Telugu, has agreed to be Karthi's pair in the forthcoming Siruthai as well.

Earlier the producer had approached Ileana for the same role. But due to the unavailability of her dates, Anushka was booked.

Vijay's double delight!

December 24, 2008

Putting widespread speculations to rest, Vijay's Vettaikaaran seems to have finally decided on its lead ladies. Yes you heard it right. If sources close to the Vettaikaaran team are to be believed, the movie could well have two heroines - Anushka and Tamanna.

Anushka has already paired up with Maddy for the average grosser Rendu while Tamanna is slowly catching up on the big league with her upcoming release Ayan where she is cast opposite Suriya.

Vettaikaaran is produced by AVM Balasubramanian and directed by Babu Sivan, the erstwhile assistant director of Dharani. Ravivarman wields the camera. Vettaikaaran is slated to go on floors after Vijay's commitments with Villu are over.

Anushka is Vijay’s heroine?

By Moviebuzz | Wednesday, 24 December , 2008, 11:35


Finally, Vijay’s Vettaikaaran has a heroine! Vijay’s 49th movie, to be directed by Babu Sivan, will see him pair with the Rendu heroine Anushka!

Anushka who is very popular in Telugu, has just agreed to play Karthi’s pair in the forthcoming Siruthai as well.

Earlier, it was Asin who was approached to play Vijay’s girl, as they are a lucky pair. Then, Ileana was being considered for the role. But with both unavailable to give dates, it was said that Priyamani was in the fray for the role.

It is now settled that Anushka will play Vijay’s love interest and shoot for the movie will begin in February.

Villu’s fight scenes on the net!

December 22, 2008

The Prabhu Deva-directed venture Villu has found its way to the net. The film stars Vijay and Nayanthara in the lead roles. The edited fight sequences from the film were found in a website, it is reported. Sources close to the Villu’s team points out that it could be the handiwork of someone close to the team and they are trying to zero in on the culprit.

Film directors and producers are now worried over this trend increasing, especially where the big budget films starring superstars are concerned. It may be recalled that films like Sivaji and Vaaranam Aayiram found its way to the net long before its release.

Vijay and Silambattam

December 22, 2008

Silambattam, the recently released film of Silambarasan is slowly warming up and the trade brands the film as a light hearted entertainer. For hero Silambarasan, this film has come after his last release Kaalai which received a lukewarm response from the box office. It has been reported in the media that Silambarasan has arranged for a many private viewing of his film. First it was for Ajith which was an exclusive show scheduled only for him. Ultimate Star is also reported to have liked Silambattam.

Following this, Silambarasan had arranged for a special show for Ilaya Thalapathy at the four frames theatres and if sources are to be believed, Vijay was much pleased with this entertainer of the little super star. It was said that Vijay liked the song 'Where is the party' very much. Besides these shows, Silambarasan has also arranged exclusive screening of the film for his other friends from the film industry viz. Sakthi, Premji, Jeyam Ravi, Bharath, Jai and Venkat Prabhu. Heroines like Priyamani and Vijayalakshmi were also said to have watched the film and were quite impressed by it.