Vijay on cover page

inbox 1305, a Chennai-based magazine run by Kiruthiga Udayanidhi Stalin has successfully completed its first year. To commemorate the anniversary, Rain Tree Ecotel Hotel will host an event on August 7th 2009 at 4:30 pm at the hotel premises. inbox 1305 covers a range of subjects including sports, fashion, travel, adventure and food.

Soundarya Rajinikanth, the CEO of Ocher Studios will release the first anniversary issue, which features Illaya Thalapathi Vijay on the cover page, will be received by ace photographer and ad filmmaker Sharad Haksar.

The magazine donated money to the Anjar Project that was started to educate children and had planted 100 trees with the help of St. Paul’s School, Vepery, Chennai to mark its first anniversary.

What’s brewing Goutham and Vijay?

IndiaGlitz
[Thursday, July 30, 2009]

One of our glossiest filmmakers, Goutham Menon had surprised many by opting to cast commercial actor Silambarasan in his next film, ‘Vinnaithandi Varuvaya’. And now, it looks there are more surprises in store from the director.

If sources are to be believed, the Director recently made a secret visit to Vijay’s place and discussed a project with him. Any cine buff is familiar with the spat between the duo when Goutham had earlier approached Vijay to do film with him.

Vijay reportedly gave him a few DVDs of his earlier films like ‘Thirupachi’ and asked him to do a film like that, which the Director obviously wasn’t pleased about. This was for ‘Kaakha Kaakha’, for which Goutham had first approached Vijay although Suriya ended up doing the role.

Vijay confirms his political plans

IndiaGlitz [Wednesday, July 29, 2009]

Actor Vijay is definitely ensuring that he doesn’t miss the limelight. The 'Vettaikkaran' star has recently announced at a public event with fans in Pudhukottai that he indeed will be setting foot into politics very soon.

This announcement was made at the inauguration of a computer centre in Pudhukottai, which has been organized by his fans. “Everybody wants my newly formed “Makkal Iyakkam” to become a political wing soon, and I am also interested in it. I am getting ready for this as politics, unlike cinema, has a lot of depth and I am ensuring I am not lost in it. I am reading the writings of Gnadhi and Nehru about politics now,” disclosed the actor.

He instilled confidence and courage among fans by stating that his “Makkal Iyakkam” will soon be a formidable force and spread its wings to the dream destination of state politics.

Vijay reiterates his stand on politics

In an explicit gesture to demonstrate his interest in a political career, Vijay stated that if fans willed, his fan club would transform into a political party. Vijay was addressing a gathering in Pudukottai at an event organized by his fan association, Vijay Makkal Iyakkam. He also inaugurated a computer training center and some welfare schemes at the event.

He requested his fans to strengthen the fan club membership to one lakh in each district which will pave way to the transformation of the association into a political party. “Only you can make it happen,” he added. The event was attended by his father S. A. Chandrasekhar and other fan club members of the area.

Application forms for the association membership were also distributed.

Ilaya Thalapathy goes in for a makeover

IndiaGlitz
[Monday, July 27, 2009]

Ajith has dabbled with femininity, has grown himself a stubble, and constantly reinvents his look for every film. But the grouse among Vijay fans that he hardly experiments with his look, has finally had its effect on the Ilaya Thalapathi.

Actor Vijay, perhaps owing to his stereotypical roles in movies, hardly changes his look, apart from constantly shedding weight. The actor tried a different bearded look for Vaseegara, which changed with Thirumalai, in which he got clean shaven. But after that, there hardly have been changes in the actor’s look.


This has been a problem with his fans who have spoken to the actor about it openly. And so, sources close to the actor reveal Vijay has decided to change his look for his 51st movie. The actor, reportedly, had a photo shoot recently, in which he took profiles of him in different looks and hairdos.

He self examined them later, and had then shortlisted a few that he thought he looked in. So, the actor’s next step, it is said, will be showing them to his director of the 51st film, Jayam Raja being the most probable name, and making him to work on a character that will suit his look.

Vijay gets into social services

Actor Vijay, who has been involved in various social welfare activities, is keen on jumping into politics. A year ago, he had launched an official flag for his fan club. Indeed, it was a foundation laid for his political foray.

Recently on his birthday, Vijay commenced computer centers for under-privileged students in Chennai and announced about launching 200 centers throughout the state. On July 26, Vijay heads to Pudukottai for inaugurating yet another computer centre with 10 systems on behalf of his Marthandapuram Fan Club. Apart from this, he will distribute free wheel chairs and hearing aid for physically challenged individuals.

Says Vijay, “Computer will dominate for years to come; it’s better for youngsters to be well educated on this subject.’"

Vijay's chemistry with Anushka

Lead pair chemistry – it is one of the most talked about things in cinema. The reason it evinces so much interest might be the fact that this `chemistry' cannot be manufactured or written into a script, it just happens. The natural level of comfort that two people share on screen must be what we call screen chemistry. Chemistry is not always about a hero and heroine; it can be between two character actors, a hero and a comedian or between any two people on screen for that matter. But, the most often talked about is the hero-heroine chemistry. Other combinations are rarely referred to as chemistry for some reason.

All said and done, we have to admit that good chemistry cannot be produced; it has to be discovered, mostly by serendipitous means. And, it looks like we are upon to something this Deepavali. Vijay has not been too lucky throughout his career with his screen chemistry with heroines. Over the past 4-5 years, he has mainly toggled between a few of the top leading ladies in Kollywood, Trisha being his pair the highest number of times. But, the lead pair's chemistry has never been talked about much all these years. But now, a handful of stills from Vettaikaran have already started talks of the lead pair's chemistry. The Vijay-Anushka pair `looks good' according to initial reports.

Though it is too early in the day to say anything conclusive, the stills that are out have managed to create a positive impression. They are not very flashy or colorful stills from songs, they are very simple and cute stills of what looks like talkie portions in the movie and Anushka has not been shown in any glamorous light. Yet, the stills have managed to capture the eye. Even non-die hard fans of Vijay seem to like what they have seen till now. These are definitely indications that this pair might end up creating some memorable chemistry on screen. For results, we have to wait for Vettaikaran to hit screens.

Source: Behindwoods

Anushka is Vettaikkaran’s Doctor

IndiaGlitz
[Friday, July 17, 2009]

She was hardly a known name a year ago. And then, ‘Arundhathee’ happened, and she got her name etched in all our memories. The tall, sexy Anushka is all set to sizzle in Tamil Film Industry again now. With her second film, she seems to have struck gold. She is playing Vijay’s pair in his 49th flick, ‘Vettaikkaran’.

Vijay and Anushka play lovers in this film, in which their romance will be the highlight. The film, being an action entertainer, is said to have a very entertaining first half and a serious second half. The film, being directed by Babu Sivan, is being produced by AVM.

It is now revealed that Anushka will play a doctor in the film. It looks like Anushka will also play the doc to cure Vijay’s love woes too.

Villu Movie Preview

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

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

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

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

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

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

Deva on dream turf

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

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

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

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

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

Pokkiri was a remake. What about Villu?

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

Does Vijay have a double role in it?

versatile Prabhu Deva

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

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

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

What are the highlights of Villu?

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

What is the significance of the title?

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

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

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

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

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

Vijay vows never to change his formula

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

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

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

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

Sarwam trailer with Villu

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

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

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

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

I am a huge fan of Vijay: Nayanthara

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Why is Villu equated to Billa?

Behindwoods
January 7, 2009

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

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

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

விஜய் சென்ட்டிமென்ட்... இடம் மாறிய வில்லு

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

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

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

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

-அர்ஜுன்