Vol 1 Issue 3
Entertainment Online Anytime
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FEB - 2011
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MATTERS Photos&Events
Interviews Reviews
Exclusive Q&A Manobala Lekha All Rounder
Aadhi
Going Great Guns
Nadunisi Naaygal Controversy
Rajni
Rana FEBUARY - 2011
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“Success is being praised by others, and that’s nice, too, but not as important or satisfying . Always aim for achievement and forget about success.”
FROM THE EDITOR’S DESK Dear Readers, The month of love, February! All the movies that hit the screen this month had no ties to romance, each one of them is from a different genre. Again it’s always great to choose from a variety to watch. Lately all the movies with sad endings seem to be making blockbuster charts. It’s been a very long time since we saw a nice romantic flick with a happy and fuzzy feeling at the end. Cinema has taken so many twists and turns in the years, I wonder if we are going off track with the stories now a days. Movies that touch the off key topics seem to be a huge success. Is it because of curiosity? The audience always keep me wondering, will they accept a particular story or not! That’s always a mystery. But the trend seems to going good with a minimum of 4 movies a month hitting the screens. . “Success is being praised by others, and that’s nice, too, but not as important or satisfying. Always aim for achievement and forget about success.” Let us keep the creative juices flowing. Cheers to a great start and many more to come and also to all the debutants. Enjoy Reading! Sainthavi. Editor Please send us your feedback to feedback@cinemamatters.com Thank you for all your Effort ! Creative Head - Vinodh.P.S Designer - Karthik.S
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Entertainment . Online . Anytime . WWW.CINEMAMATTERS.COM
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CM VOL 1 ISSUE 3
February 2011
Content 06 Movie Review 20 Aadhi going great guns 28 Seedan 32 Felicitation to SPB
34 Obituary 58 Vikram and Susee Come Together
46 Lekha Washington WWW.CINEMAMATTERS.COM
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VOL 1 ISSUE 2
February 2011
44 Up Close with Director, Actor Manobala
27 Nadunisi Naaygal Controversy
38 Rajni’s Rana 36 Selva’s Engagement
42 2011 Edison Awards 61 Welcome Mapillai 8th April
50 Kalaimamani Awards
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CinemaMatters | Movie Reviews
MOVIE REVIEW
Padhinaru STARRING : Shiva, Madhu Shalini BANNER :Passion Movie Makers DIRECTOR : D. Sabapathy MUSIC : Yuvan Sankar Raja LANGUAGE : Tamil
PADHINARU MOVIE REVIEW
Sweet yet draggy Padhinaru can be classified as yet another love story. But what makes the film stand apart from its genre is another story, which is presented in it. In sort, you can watch two stories in one film, and that is Padhinaru to you.Directed by Sabapathi, who in the past gave us films like VIP, Sundarapurushan and Punnagai Poove, the movie talks about emotions shared between youngsters and parents. And it also throws light on love affairs in cities and villages. Siva (Mirchi Shiva) and Indhu (Madhu Shalini) are lovers, who study in a city-based college. One day, Indhu’s father spots them in a shopping mall and comes to know about his daughter’s relationship. Unlike other Kollywood dads who immediately try their best to separate the lovers, Indhu’s father informs her mother about the affair. And Indhu and Siva are invited to the former’s house where they are presented a book. The book titled Padhinaru is a story of a lover couple in a village. As it unfolds we come to know that one Gopi and Ilavarasi, who study in a school, fall for each other and things takes a turn when they try to elope. Now both stories join together to pave way for the climax. Siva is cool as usual and comes out with a commendable performance. Tollywood import Madhu Shalini is a welcome addition to Kollywood while Abhishek is commendable as the father of a lovelorn youth. Yuvanshankar Raja is another hero of Padhinaru. His tunes and background score add immense value to the movie. To sum it up, had the director avoided some lengthy scenes and boring visuals, Padhinaru would have been a treat to youngsters. Not a bad attempt though. MovieGallery - http://www.cinemamatters.com/galleryimage.php?id=9106&artist_id=510 WWW.CINEMAMATTERS.COM
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CinemaMatters | Movie Reviews
MOVIE REVIEW
Yudham Sei STARRING :Cheran, Dipa Shah, Y. Gee. Mahendra BANNER :AGS Entertainment DIRECTOR : Myshkin MUSIC :K LANGUAGE : Tamil
YUDHAM SEI MOVIE REVIEW
Missing mystery A Crime against women: Mysskin makes his second film in this subject, which at the same time is different from his earlier venture. If you are ready for a little dragging second half and that ‘I have seen it before’ feel in some parts, Yudham Sei could be an engrossing fare. Cheran, who is so far seen in middle-class man roles, plays an intelligent crime branch officer, who unmasks the truth behind mysterious incidents taking place in the city. He is cool, good and comes up with a convincing performance.Sathya’s, a former associate of P C Sreeram has cranked the camera and K’s music is the two major highlights of the film. While the former’s enormous efforts are visible on screen, the latter marks his presence felt in background score and the only one song in the movie (which has Ameer and Neetu Chandra shaking their legs). Since it is a dark tale, cinematography was the backbone for the film. All credits should go to Sathya for filming things right through his lens and K ably complimented it in his background score, which is dominated by the use of instruments like cello and violin, adds Mysskin.The whole movie was completed in just 50 days and this was a possible thanks to tremendous support and encouragement by my producers, Mysskin says ‘ it is movie that would wide open the eyes of many’.Coming to the story, J Krishnamurthy (Cheran), a crime branch official, is given the job of finding the mystery behind the missing women in the city and their body parts making their way to busy streets in cartons. Along with his team members Thamizh (Deepa Shah) and Prakash, Krishnamurthy goes behind the clues and undercover many dirty secrets of the rich and powerful, including some black sheeps in the police department itself. Cheran’s performance has already been talked about. Others, including Deepa Shah, Y Gee Mahendra and Lakshmi, have given their best to their respective roles. On the whole, Yudham Sei is engrossing in most parts, but for the latter half. Watch it for the making by Mysskin.Mysskin, the man who rendered movies like Chithiram Pesuthadi, Anjathae and Nandhalala, is back to render an action thriller; titled Yudham Sei.The movie was produced by AGS Entertainment.Says Mysskin, ‘today there is no guilt among criminals in the society. There is a general tendency among them that they can escape any punishment. Yudham Sei is an attempt to set this right and create fear in the minds and hearts of criminals.’
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Yudham Sei Premiere Show
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Yudham Sei Premiere Show
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CinemaMatters | Movie Reviews
MOVIE REVIEW
Thoonga Nagaram STARRING : Vimal, Anjali, Bharani, Nishanth BANNER : Cloud Nine Movies DIRECTOR : Gaurav MUSIC : Sundar C Babu LANGUAGE : Tamil
THOONGA NAGARAM MOVIE REVIEW
Slice of life
Four friends with their emotions and revenge: Faithfully sticking to this ‘Made in Madurai’ formula is Thoonga Nagaram, a film produced by Dhayanidhi Alagiri’s Cloud Nine Movies.Young producer Dhayanidhi Alagiri always tries things in a different way. One such attempt from him is Thoonga Nagaram, a film on Madurai, his father’s stronghold. The film is a Madurai- based gangster film. In local parlance Madurai is known as Thoonga Nagaram, a city that does not sleep.The film is written and directed by Gaurav, a former associate of K S Ravikumar, and features Pasanga and Kalavani Vimal, Nadodigal fame Bharani and Renigunta Nishanth in key roles. Anjali plays the heroine. Besides wielding the megaphone, Gaurav dons an important role in the film. The music was launched at a gala affair at Thamukkam Grounds in Madurai on the occasion of M K Alagiri’s birthday last year. A breezy first half and a racy second half makes up Thoonga Nagaram, which is fresh as well old. For some scenes are refreshing while some other reminds you the earlier Madurai films we have been watching since Subramanyapuram.Four friends (Vimal of Kalavani fame, Nadodigal Bharani, director Gaurav and Nishanth of Renigunta) roam around Madurai all the time and share good camaraderie. Vimal, who is a wedding videographer, falls in love with his childhood friend (Anjali), who is now an anchor with a local TV channel. Their smooth love takes a U turn when Vimal comes across a youth, who films obscene clippings of a girl and blackmails her. He attacks him and earns the wrath of the youngster’s father (Chidambaram, proprietor of Kamala Theatre). The elderly man now hatches a conspiracy to avenge the attack on his son.Vimal is taking shape as a good actor in each film of him and he continues it in Thoonga Nagaram too. Bharani, Gaurav and Nishanth have added value to the film with their work. Anjali delivers a matured performance. Music by Sundar C Babu sets the Madurai mood well. Vijay Ulaganathan’s camera has gelled well with the temple town. On the whole, Thoonga Nagaram is yet another film on Madurai which is different in parts however.The movie has cinematography by Vijay Ulaganathan, a former associate of K V Anand. Music is by Sundar C Babu, editing by Suresh and art by Santhanam. ‘When the audience is ready to watch different attempts even if it features newcomers, why opt for big-budgeted films. Thoonga Nagaram will be a treat for movie lovers’, says Dhayanidhi Alagiri.
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CinemaMatters | Movie Reviews
MOVIE REVIEW
Payanam STARRING :Nagarjuna, Prakash Raj, Sana Khan, Poonam Kaur BANNER :Silent Movies DIRECTOR : Radha Mohan MUSIC :Pravin Mani LANGUAGE : Tamil
PAYANAM MOVIE REVIEW
What a journey! Life is a journey which is full of unexpected twists and turns. And Payanam too is just that. The film, which is about flight hijack, takes off in full speed in the first scene itself, and fails to land till the end. A movie from the seasoned Radha Mohan-Prakash Raj combo, which has given us Mozhi and Abhiyum Naanum in the past, Payanam is a different attempt and could take Tamil cinema to the next destination. Presenting you the story, a flight which starts from Chennai is hijacked by a terrorist group. The passengers list (total 75) is comprised of a Minister, a popular actor and a well known doctor. The airbus is brought to the Tirupati airport. Negotiations start between the ultras and the government, and Home Secretary Vishwanath (Prakash Raj) comes down to Tirupati. In the meantime, the job of rescuing the passengers is entrusted to NSG commando Ravi (Nagarjuna). What follows is a pulsating second half. If the script is the main advantage, the other important highlight is the performance by Nagarjuna and Prakash Raj. All other actors compliment them well. Praveen Mani’s background score, Guhan’s cinematography and the art director’s work give us a feel that we are one among the passengers in the hijacked flight. On the flip side, there are some jerks in Payanam, which is apparent for commercial reasons. But you should be ready to bear it if you are ready to encourage good cinema. Good work by Radha Mahan and team.
MovieGallery - http://www.cinemamatters.com/galleryimage.php?id=10124&artist_id=566 Online Review - http://www.cinemamatters.com/details.php?mid=42
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CinemaMatters | Movie Reviews
MOVIE REVIEW
Thambikottai STARRING : Narain, Poonam Bajwa, Meena BANNER : Rajeshwari Films DIRECTOR : Ammu Ramesh MUSIC : D. Imman LANGUAGE : Tamil
THAMBI KOTTAII MOVIE REVIEW
Superman show Narain’s last hit was Anjathey, early in 2008. Since then, the actor has not had a great run at the boxoffice. After being in the making for almost two years, Thambikottai finally released to show Narain’s face to the audience. Hold on! If you go to Thambikottai having in mind the actor’s earlier ventures, a disappointment awaits you (good-hearted can call it as surpise). For he is now a mass hero, who can do anything and everything under the sun. Though the image fails to sit well on Narain’s shoulders, it was visible that the actor had tried hard to shed his soft-hero looks. But what spoils the show is an age old formula story, which is rehashed by debutant director Ammu Ramesh. Despite this, you can still enjoy the film produced by R K Suresh, if you are game for action, comedy, sentiment and dance sequences coming to entertain you at regular intervals. Azhagiri (Narain) is a happy - go - lucky youngster, who is brought by his elder sister Shanmugapriya (Meena), after the demise of their parents. Both care for each other a lot and share a great bondage. Things go for a change when Azhagiri goes on a NSS trip to Thambikottai, a village which is under the control of Amirthalingam (Nan Kadavul Rajendran). Our hero, as expected, falls in love with Amirthalingam’s daughter Kanaka (Poonam Bhajwa) and also frees the villagers from his clutches. Narain tries his best to live up to the super hero image. Poonam Bhajwa, Meena, Sangeetha, Prabhu, Santhanam, Nan Kadavul Rajendran and others do justice to their respective roles. D Imman’s music compliments the story. Thambikottai has its share of flaws, but then it is aimed at those who love mass masala commercial flicks. If it serves the purpose, who is going to complain? MovieGallery - http://www.cinemamatters.com/galleryimage.php?id=7097&artist_id=403 Online Review - http://www.cinemamatters.com/details.php?mid=43 WWW.CINEMAMATTERS.COM
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CinemaMatters | Movie Reviews
MOVIE REVIEW
Aadu Puli STARRING : Aadhi, Poorna, Prabhu Ganesan BANNER : Global Infotainments DIRECTOR : Vijay Prakash MUSIC :Sundar C Babu LANGUAGE : Tamil
AADU PULI MOVIE REVIEW
Routine route Aadu Puli is a racy game played in the rural parts of Tamilnadu. But when a film is made with this title, it is not as interesting as one would expect, as a predictable script and clichÊd scenes take away all the sheen. Produced by Michael Rayappan of Global Infotainment, who has movies like Nadodigal, Goripalayam and Thenmaerku Paruvakattru to his credit, the film directed by Vijay Prakash has a host of popular actors playing key roles. Besides, music by Sundar C Babu, cinematography by Rajavel Oliveeran and other technical departments too are okay. But these things hardly come to the help of Aadupuli, one has to say. Idhayakani (Aadhi) has a very big family, with his parents (Prabhu and Anupama) and grandparents (Ravichandran and K R Vijaya) showering love and affection on him. He also has a sister and as expected, a family song is also there. But things take a turn for Idhayakani, when he falls for Anjali (Poorna), daughter of a Minister (Suresh). The politician accepts his daughter’s love affair but creates all hurdles from the background. How Idhayakani emerges triumphant is the climax. Aadhi shows improvement while Poorna plays a typical Tamil cinema heroine. Others in the cast are okay. Vijay Prakash, in his first film, shows signs that he could emerge as a successful director, only if he zeroes in on a right script. Life always gives another chance, they say. MovieGallery - http://www.cinemamatters.com/galleryimage.php?id=10150&artist_id=569 Online Review - http://www.cinemamatters.com/details.php?mid=45
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“Aadhi going great Guns
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Aadhi was born on 14 December 1982 [age 28] in chennai, as Sai Pradeep Pinisetty is an Indian film actor, who has mainly appeared in Tamil films. He debuted in the 2006 Telugu film Oka Vichitram and made his big break with S. Shankar’s 2009 film Eeram.His father, Ravi Raja Pinisetty has directed 56 films. He was born and brought up in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
Aadhi is the youngest son of noted Telugu director Ravi Raja Pinisetty. He studied at Don Bosco School and later studied Engineering.Subsequently; he enrolled at Satyanand Institute of Acting in Vishakapatnam and trained to become an actor. After a stellar show in Mirugam and Eeram and an actionpacked commercial venture, Ayyanar Aadhi had an absolutely new look in the film. On his part, Aadhi says, ‘After Mirugam and Eeram, I am playing a different role in Ayyanaar’. The actor is thrilled for it is his first commercial venture.
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‘My earlier films Mirugam and Eeram, were different, so is Ayyanar from others. Here is action, romance and humour all mixed in right proportion. Also the music of Thaman is rocking’, he says. Aadhi was all happy for his recent release Ayyannar won his rave reviews and what so he celebrated his birthday in a grand manner. The actor’s phone was flooded with congratulations for his good performance. On his birthday, Aadhi’s fans chose to conduct blood donation camp. Says the actor, ‘ I am happy that my fans have chosen to utilise the opportunity to render some social service. It has given me immense satisfaction’. 21
Also Aadhi called on his fans and exchanged pleasantries. Aadhi is confident that his Aadu Puli would make it big. He says, ‘Director Vijay Prakash has handled things extremely well and the result is there to be seen’. He plays the lead role alongside Prabhu, K R vijaya and Ravichandran, the veteran warhorses in the industry. On his heroine Poorna, he says, ‘ she is there to impress one and all. Cool and breezy role that she has handled it with dignity.’
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Aadhi going great guns.... Aadu Puli is a popular game that is played with gusto in rural Tamilnadu. A movie inspred by the game is ready to hit the screens. The movie has Aadhi playing the lead role and Prabhu as his father. The name of the character Aadhi playing in Aadu Puli is Idhayakani.Aadu Puli is a complete entertainer meant for family viewing. The young actor, who made a mark for himself early in his career doing varied roles in films like Mirugam, Eeram and Ayyanar, says, ‘Aadul Puli is a commercial entertainer. It has everything a film-buff would love to watch in a movie’. ‘It was not my conscious decision to do mass commercial movies. But when I came across this script, I decided not to lose it. It is breezy, entertaining and light-hearted’. The movie has Poorna opposite Aadhi with veterans Prabhu, K R Vijaya and Ravichandran playing key roles. The movie directed by debutant Vijay Prakash has musical score by Sundar C Babu. Aadhi Says ‘I enjoyed working in Aadu Puli because I got the opportunity to work with some legends. They are cooperative and encouraged me a lot. It was nice learning for me’. The highlight of the movie is that it talks about generation gap. Major portion of the movie is set in Chennai while few events unfold in Kumbakonam, he says and adds, ‘I play a youth, who is just out of college and the events that happen in his life form the crux’. It was easy playing the boy-next-door and interestingly there are more romantic scenes,
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Aadhi, who is sporting a long beard, says, ‘ I am extremely thrilled to work in Vasanthabalan’s Aravan. Aravan has a story that travels back 300 years in time. It is a complicated film that is set in the 18th century’. Aadhi says, ‘I am now concentrating on Aravan. We are planning to complete it in a few months. All my attention is towards it and it has been a good ride so far in the industry for I have been getting a mix of themes. From Mirugam to Eeram to Ayyanar and now Aadu Puli and forthcoming release Aravan, all are exciting’. In his words ‘I am getting good offers. Thankfully the year has been so good for me. Hopefully will scale greater heights in the coming year’. Meanwhile, the shooting for Aravan is almost complete and buzz is that it would release early next year. ‘Though I give every film my all, this one is mind-blowing. We shot for 20 days; it seemed like 200. That’s the kind of effort that has gone into it. Working with such a team (Pasupathi, Dhansika) is great. A project like this needs a good platform. And that’s what I have in Vasanthabalan (director) and T Siva (producer)’. After Aravan, Aadhi will switch genres again. ‘I believe in variety.’ Ask what his dream role is, he is quick to say,’ something like what Will Smith did in Men In Black. A stylish comedy would be nice. I should thank all my directors who are keeping faith in my acting credentials and giving roles that helps me perform to my potential. I wish to establish a place for me in the industry and ensure every character I do remembered by the masses’ he winds up. All cheers for Aadhi.
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CinemaMatters | Movie Reviews
MOVIE REVIEW
Nadunisi Naaygal STARRING : Sameera Reddy, Veera Bahu BANNER : Photon Kathaas DIRECTOR : Gautham Menon LANGUAGE : Tamil
NADUNISI NAAYGAL MOVIE REVIEW
Beware of dogs Blowing hot and cold is Gautham Vasudev Menon’s style. He had always experimented giving a love story and faithfully followed it with a thriller. After Vinnai Thandi Varuvaya, he has now come out with Nadunisi Naaygal, a film according to the director is not for the weak-hearted. A less than two hour movie without songs and background score, Nadunisi Naaygal is apparently targetted at city-based audience. For the making and presentation are inspired by Hollywood, sounding very alien, which may not work beyond Chengalpattu. With traces of Sigappu Rojakkal, Anniyan and Chandramukhi, the movie’s two major strengths are cinematography by Manoj Parahamsa and editing by Antony. But for these two, Gautham would have ended up presenting something else. The movie is woven around the antagonist/protagonist Veera aka Samar (Veera) and the unraveling of his mind over one fateful night which brings all the characters (Meenakshi as Meenakshi and Sameera as Suganya) together. A sexually abused child, the beast in Veera comes out as he grows up. And the wicked animal in him is not ready to leave even those who care for him. Falling prey are his neighbour Meenakshi and school friend Suganya. What’s next is the rest of the story. Veera is convincing as a split personality and a psycho, while Meenakshi and Sameera lend credible performance. Though the story is old, the treatment is novel. But it is still a question whether it would really work. For, the city audience could blame the loop holes and the rural could not identify themselves with the script. MovieGallery - http://www.cinemamatters.com/galleryimage.php?id=1140&artist_id=141 Online Review - http://www.cinemamatters.com/details.php?mid=44
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Nadunisi Naaygal Controversy
Gautham Menon’s Nadunisi Naaigal, a psychological thriller, which has neither any songs nor any background score, is set for release for 18 February. An intense thriller requires pacy narration and gripping storyline. Music and background score are not necessary, says Gautham Menon. Considered an intense filmmaker, he says, ‘I was keen to do a psycho thriller for a long time. My Vettiayadu Vilayadu had little traces of it. Nadunisi Naaigal will be a gripping thriller’Playing the lead role is Veera, who worked as associate director with Gautham for several years and Sameera Reddy. ‘I met a psychiatrist, who narrated the story of a mentally challenged patient. Events in his life moved me a lot. It created an urge in me to pen a script that would bring audience to their seat-edge’.The whole movie unfolds in one night. It is realistic from the word go and would be hard-hitting, says Gautham Menon, who is also producing the movie on behalf of his Photon Kathas. On choosing Veera for the lead role, he says, ‘he has been my assistant for the past few years. Gautham Menon is convinced of what he has done in Nadunisi Naaigal. Though many critics had expressed apprehensions about the movie’s content, the director says it has been an experience for him doing the film.In a statement, he says, ‘Nadunisi Naaigal is new age Tamil cinema. I have tried to break the rules of regular cinema with this film. It’s also in a genre that is new to me. It’s experimental in the sense that it is a dark and disturbing film.’Says Gautham further, ‘it’s a contrast to all my earlier films in every sense. In a way, it’s an announcement that I am always looking to break away from a style that I am known for and create a new style for myself. Anything experimental and new will always be received with bouquets and brickbats and I am at a stage in my career where I fully understand that. I stand by this film with a lot of conviction.’ WWW.CINEMAMATTERS.COM
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Queried about the Hindi version of Vinnai Thaandi Varuvaya, he says, ‘the movie features Pratik Babbar and Emmy Jackson the lead roles, with A R Rahman scoring music and Gulzar penning the lyrics’. Says Gautham, ‘ I am happy where I am today. I am directing a couple of films and on behalf of my Photon Kathas producing a couple of films (Azhagarsamiyin Kuthirai by Suseendhiran and director Ram’s Thanga Meengal). Also Photon Kathas is registered with London Stock Exchange. We are also acquiring audio and Kandein was our first release’. Gautham Menon on a sticky wicket It seems Nadunisi Naaigal has been incurring wrath of different sections of the society for its adult content. Close on the heels of Viduthalai Siruthaigal and few women’s association raising their voice against the movie for portraying child abuse in a bad light, now Shiva Sena has raised its voice
against Gautham Menon. In a statement, the Tamilnadu unit of the Shiva Sena said, ‘it is unimaginable to see that the culture and tradition of our Tamil land and Hindu sentiments have been disrespected in Nadunisi Naaigal. It has been the case in some of the earlier films of Gautham Menon’. It has certain scenes that demans human relationships and are intolerable. Women have been portayed as mere objects of lust in the film. Major portion of the movie is filled with sex and perversion. The Censor Board should have rejected certificate for the film, the statement said. ‘Also a woman has been named after a Hindu Goddess and portrayed in a bad light.’ Shiva Sena urges Goutham to remove the name within a week or else face protest. WWW.CINEMAMATTERS.COM
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CinemaMatters | Movie Reviews
MOVIE REVIEW
Seedan STARRING : Dhanush, Krishna, Ananya BANNER : Mid Productions DIRECTOR : Subramaniya Siva MUSIC :Dhina LANGUAGE : Tamil
SEEDAN MOVIE REVIEW
Not such a bad student Seedan may not be an excellent film. But at the same time, it is also not an avoidable stuff. At a time when Kollywood is filled with masala and crime dishes, here comes an entertainer which can be watched with whole family. Produced by Amith Mohan for Mith Productions, the movie brings together Subramaniam Siva and Dhanush, who gave us Thiruda Thirudi earlier. No match to their earlier venture, Seedan is slow and dragging, but steady too. As expected, Dhanush brings immense value to the film by his sheer presence. Though a cameo, Seedan heavily relies on him and the actor seems to be aware of it. Krishna marks his presence felt while Ananya gives her best to the innocent girl role she has played. The movie revolves around Mahalakshmi aka Maha (Ananya), who is a maid in a big house. Her ultimate belief in life is her faith on Lord Muruga and she spends most of her time by speaking to the Almighty in front of a portrait of Him. One day, Maha meets her dream boy, who happens to be the grandson of her boss (Sheela). As things go well, her prince charming’s mom (Suhasini) arranges his wedding with her friend’s daughter. Unable to stomach this, Maha explains everything to the Lord. As it happens, enters Saravanan (Dhanush) a new cook in the house. How he sets things right is the second half of the movie. Dhina’s music delivers what the script needs. Other technical departments too have helped well to the film’s flow. And Vivek is there to provide some relief. The only drawback is the ‘slow feel’, which could have been avoided by the director MovieGallery - http://www.cinemamatters.com/galleryimage.php?id=12303&artist_id=637 Online Review - http://www.cinemamatters.com/details.php?mid=46
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Seedan Trailer Launch
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Saghakkal Audio Launch
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Felicitation to SPB
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Felicitation to SPB
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Obituary
Malaysia Vasudevan is no more Veteran playback singer Malaysia Vasudevan passed away in a private hospital in Chennai on Feb 20th 2011. He was admitted a few days before after he suffered cardiac arrest. Born in Malaysia, he moved to India and found a career as a singer and actor in stage plays. Later, he started singing for movies and, to date, has nearly 8,000 songs in Tamil and over 4,000 songs in other South Indian languages to his credit. He has also acted in nearly 85 films. His first song was for the film Delhi to Madras. He t h e n did a stint with M S Viswanathan and was eventually sought by Ilaiyaraja and Bharathiraja to sing in the film 16 Vayathinile. He has also sung few songs in Hindi. He has been awarded Kalaimamani by the Tamil Nadu Government. Veteran Tamil director A P Nagarajan christened him as ‘Malaysia Vasudevan’. He has worked with many music directors such as M S Viswanathan, Ilaiyaraja, Shankar-Ganesh, Deva, A R Rahman, and Vidyasagar. After T M Sounderajan, he was called as ghost voice for Sivaji Ganesan. A son and a daughter who are popular playback singers in Tamil cinema survive him. WWW.CINEMAMATTERS.COM
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Obituary MGR, NTR’s make-up man passes away- P.Vasu’s Father Noted director P Vasu’s father M Peethambaram, who worked as make-up man with the likes of MGR and NTR, passed away in Chennai on Feb 21st 2011. Peethambaram, who was 90, was a makeup artist for many legendary actors. He has worked in almost all regional languages and with all notable actors of his time. Peethamabar am moved to Chennai from Thrissur in Kerala in 1940. He started his career as an assistant makeup artist at Vahini Studios. Wife Kamalam, sons Vidyasagar, Vasu and Vimal, and daughters Vijayalakshmi and Vanaja survive him.
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Selvaraghavan’s Engagement
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Selvaraghavan’s Engagement
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Rajni’s Rana
SUN’S EARNINGS FROM ENTHIRAN Sun Television Network, whose film production arm Sun Pictures produced Enthiran, today announced that they earned revenues of Rs 179 crore from the Superstar Rajinikanth starrer.
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A
release announcing the quarterly financial results of Sun Group said: ‘During this quarter, the Company released a blockbuster movie simultaneously in three languages titled ‘Enthiran’ in Tamil and ‘Robot’ in Telugu and Hindi.’ ‘The Company earned revenues of Rs.179 crores, including Rs.15 crores expected towards satellite rights which has not been included in the revenues in this quarter. The Company has spent Rs.132 crores on the production of this blockbuster.’
Speaking on the development, Mr.Sunil Lulla, Managing Director, Eros International Media Ltd said, “We are extremely excited to join hands with Tamil industry’s most popular super star Rajinikanth for Rana and this time audiences will be treated with their favourite actor donning a triple role in the film. Rana is going to be far different from any of the recent Rajni films, a complete live action magnum opus with loads of entertainment for his fans”. Ms.Soundarya Rajinikanth, Director of Ocher Studios Private Limited added, “We are very pleased to announce this partnership with Eros International for
Rajini’s next is Rana
Rana. We hope to make a film together that will live
Following is a press release issued to the media: “Eros International Media Ltd (Eros International), India’s largest integrated film studio and Ocher Studios Private Limited, Chennai have joined hands to co-produce ‘RANA’ to be directed by K. S. Ravikumar who has in the past directed two super hit films of Rajinikanth – ‘Muthu’ and ‘Padayappa’.
reach out to maximum audiences across the globe”.
up to the huge expectations of the movie-goers and
Several names were being discussed. The hot industry grapevine is that Bollywood glamgirl Deepika Padukone was supposed to play Rajnikanth’s love interest in the magnum opus Rana. Sources add that she has been approached and though she was busy with other offers in Hindi, she agreed to adjust her dates to do the film. She reportedly said it would be a dream come true experience to work with Superstar Rajnikanth. Asin would replace Bollywood diva Deepika for an important film. Hold on! it is not for Rajnikanth’s much-hyped Rana, to be made in three languges in which Deepika is tipped to act. Sources say Deepika, who played Akshay Kumar’s heroine in director Sajid Khan’s Bollywood super hit Housefull (2010), will not be part of the film’s forthcoming sequel.
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After a long wait to get Deepika’s dates for the project, director Sajid Khan has finally decided to choose another heroine and finalised south Indian beauty Asin for Housefull 2. Asin was to play the lead opposite Bollywood, when Priyadarshan ofopted out of the project.
Akshay Kumar much earlier in her career in fered her De Dana Dan. However, Asin had
Rajni will be seen in a triple for this magnum opus. and Rajni’s daugheffects. Rana will be and Hindi.
role and A R Rahman will compose music The cinematographer would be Ratnavelu ter Soundarya will handle the special made simultaneously in Tamil, Telugu
Rajini on sign-
ing spree
Rajinikanth now. Sources perstar is likely again for the produce the banner Red Gi-
seems to be on a hurry to do movies say after completing Rana, the Suto team up with director Shankar third time. Udhayanidhi Stalin will proposed project under his home ants Movies.
Rajni
gets
Rajinikanth visited 25th wedding anniManohar and his wife made films like the Jeans, are based in in Bollywood too. It har will also have and Soundarya’s which the legend He reportedly kumar project been signed Apparently, Also, sourcwill play the jinikanths. the exciteWWW.CINEMAMATTERS.COM
down to business
finalised the that will go to to play the fethere is only one es confirm that the baddie. ‘In Robot, In Raana, there are ment is also tripled’, 40
Mumbai recently to attend the versary of his friends Dr Murli Sujata. These couples that have Aishwarya Rai Bachchan film Chennai, but have strong links is rumoured that Dr Murli Manoa stake in Eros International co-production Rana, a film in Rajni gets down to business. rest of the cast for his K S Ravifloors in April 2011. Asin has male lead opposite Rajini. romantic track in Raana. Dabangg villain Sonu Sood we had two Rathree of him, hence says a source. FEB - 2011
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Edison Awards 2011
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Edison Awards 2011
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Up Close with Director, Actor Manobala CM : Do you think your sense of humour helped you better as a Director or as an Actor? Mano : Sense of humour helps both ways. As an actor I can’t overtake my co-stars and the director. CM : :Do you think you have a dream Character you would like to do? How come you have not tried out serious roles? Mano :I am fond of doing sentimental characters. But a director has to offer one to me. CM : How and when does your normal Day start and end? Mano : I will do my pooja in the morning and start the day. It will go as usual like any other day would. CM : Tell us something about your Family. Mano : I have one son who is a classical singer. He is doing BE., Wife-housewife CM : We know that you are a good cook, any quick recipe that can be whipped up in minutes? What is your favourite restaurant in Chennai and your favourite dish? Mano : Of course I like cooking. In book festivals, there is a huge demand for cookery books. Like me , Rajeev Menon, Subhash, and so many others are there who like cooking. Mrs. Suhasini Manirathinam and I have got an idea of releasing a cookbook. let us see..!! CM : You are very active online, Do you miss your friends, Do you get back with your friends as often as you would before? Mano : No. No. I don’t miss my freinds. I used to chat on different timings, mostly withdirectors.
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CM : Are you going to put your director’s cap back on, if yes who would you like to work with? Mano : I don’t think so. It’s always there, but I would like to become a Producer. This time I would want to introduce youngsters with good talent. CM : In all your recent projects, we see that you are in great sync with the heroes. How is it working with the new directors being one yourself, what would you like to teach them or did you learn something from them? who is your favorite director? Mano : All are very talented. only they are taking much time for the shooting days. mmm….my favorite director is Rajkapoor. CM : A few words of wisdom, for our Readers : Mano : Atleast we get the freedom of sharing things. All to best to everybody..!! 44
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Creations as a Director Aagaaya Gangai Naan Ungal Rasigan Paaru Paaru Pattinam Paaru Dhoorathu Pacchai Oorkavalan Siraipparavai En PurushanThan EnakkuMattum Than Moodu Mandhiram Malluvetty Minor Vetri Padigal Paramparyam Karuppu Vellai Nandhini Annai ManoBalam Mahadevan Born on 4th June 1953 (age 57) Sulur, Coimbatore, India Director and Comedian Actor who is known for his supporting roles in almost all the latest movies. He lands the wittiest character, which has put him in a wonderful place as a character artist. He has directed 40 films, 16 television serials and 3 tele-films during his career as a director. As an actor, he has appeared in 185+ films and a dozen more is under production.
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Appearances as an Actor Thaaimaaman Taj Mahal Samudhiram Pithamagan Nala Damayanthi Perazhagan Ghajini Chandramukhi Anniyan Kannamoochi Yenada Yaaradi Nee Mohini Santhosh Subramaniyam Kuselan Aadhavan Vettaikkaaran Tamil Padam Singam Thillalangadi Baana Kathadi Siruthai Thambikottai
Future Projects
Maapillai Mudhal Idam Agam Ariya Aaval Gnani Eththan Vetkathai Kettaal Enna Tharuvaai Aadhi Narayana
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Lekha
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Washington Lekha Washington was born April 30, 1984 in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India to a father of mixed Burmese, Italian and Punjabi ancestry, Kenneth, and a Maharashtrian mother. Lekha has stated she considers herself South Indian due to her upbringing and speaks English, Tamil and Marathi [at home] Lekha pursued a degree in Fine Arts at Stella Maris College in Chennai and went on to attend the National Institute of Design taking courses in first, Lifestyle Product Design, and then re-applying to enrol in the Film and Video Communication course. During her time studying film-making, she opted that she preferred a career in “front of the camera, rather than from behind�. She has directed three short films called Spoonerism, Catch 22 and Sunn with locations ranging from Myanmar to Mauritius. Lekha has also enjoyed success as a sculptor, showcasing her work most recently in January 2011 in an exhibition in New Delhi. She was featured by The Hindu newspaper in January 2002 for her maiden exhibition, Exhibition A, for which she won critical appraisal.
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Lekha Washington has also
Lekha n o t g n i h s a W
been involved in English stage plays held in Chennai, featuring in Madras Player’s production of Twelfth Night in 2002 as Viola. She has also been active in directing the theatre troupe, Khel. During the maiden season of the Indian Premier League, Lekha was signed on to anchor an analysis and interview show which provided coverage of the cricket played. In order to prepare for the role, Lekha did research through cricketing journals and enlisted help from Ajay Jadeja, hoping for her reporting to reach a widespread audience. Notably during her time as a reporter, she was briefly criticized for asking umpire Asad Rauf which franchise he had rooted for, as a part of a joke. However, her stint was considered successful
and
helped
her gain more offers from film producers. WWW.CINEMAMATTERS.COM
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Lekha Filmography 2007 Framed English 2007 Unnale Unnale Tamil 2008 Jayamkondaan Tamil Nominated, Vijay Award for Best Supporting Actress 2010 Vedam Telugu 2010 Va Tamil 2010 Huduga Hudugi Kannada 2011 Peter Gaya Kaam Se Hindi [Post-production] 2011 Power Hindi [Filming]
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Kalaimamani awards
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Kalaimamani awards
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Kalaimamani awards
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Kalaimamani awards ARYA, ANUSHKA AND TAMANNAH TO GET KALAIMAMANI AWARDS Actor Arya, actresses Anushka and Tamannah will be the recipients of ‘Kalaimamani’ awards announced by the Tamilnadu government on Friday night. Chief Minister M Karunanidhi would present the awards at a function in Chennai on February 13, an official press release said. Noted cinematographer Rajiv Menon, veteran actress Rohini and Saranya, comedian Karunaas and Chinni Jeyanth, music director Bharadwaj and director Thirumurugan would also be presented the awards, it said. Veena artistes Rajesh Vaidya and Srinivasan have also been selected for the award. Winners are all smiles. The conferment of Kalaimamani on film personalities by the State government has brought immense joy to them. A thrilled Arya, who is shooting for Avan Ivan, said, ‘ it is a great joy. I am thrilled and happy to get the award from the hands of Chief Minister M. Karunanidhi.’ Echoing the same, Anushka said, ‘ 2010 has been a fantastic year for me. Now with this honour, it has brought immense joy and happiness to me’. Bharadwaj, who has scored music for over 50 films, said, ‘ it is like a tonic to me. Such honours motivate us to achieve more. I am thrilled and happy to be receiving the honour’. Karunaas, thanking M Karunanidhi, said, ‘ it is a motivating factor for me to try more and achieve more in Tamil cinema’.
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FEB - 2011
Three Idiots is Nanban
Vijay back in Three Idiots remake, buzz is that Vijay, who initially opted pout of the Tamil remake of Three Idiots, to be directed by Shankar, has reportedly joined the team again. Sources say Suriya who was touted to replace Vijay for the remake chose to pull out as the dates for the movie clashed with his forthcoming film with K V Anand. Sources in the know said, ‘we approached Vijay again and he agreed to be part of the film. His scenes are to be canned from March. Shankar started shooting portions of Srikanth, Jiiva, Sathyaraj and Ileana in Ooty since last week’. It is good news for Vijay fans as they can expect to see their matinee idol working with a big director and that he would be donning a different and a refreshing get-up in the film, which has music by Harris Jeyaraj. The Tamil remake of Three Idiots has been titled Nanban. Produced by Gemini Film Circuit, who made films like Vasoolraja, Kutty and distributed blockbusters including Rajnikanth’s Enthiran and Kamal’s Manmadhan Ambu, the film directed by Shankar stars Vijay, Jiiva and Srikanth in lead roles. Tollywood’s dream girl Ileana will play the heroine. Veteran actor Sathyaraj and comedian Sathyan are also in the cast. The shooting for the movie is on at Ooty where scenes involving Jiiva, Srikanth, Sathyaraj and Sathyan are being shot. Vijay’s portions would be shot from 25 February. The movie is a remake of Hindi hit Three Idiots, written and directed by Raju Hirani. Vijay will don the lead role enacted by Aamir Khan, while Ileana plays the character enacted by Kareena Kapoor in the original.
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S J Suryah - Anuya in Three Idiots remake The latest buzz is that Nanban, the Tamil remake of Three Idiots will feature special appearance by actor-director S J Suryah and actress Anuya. The movie, directed by Shankar and produced by Gemini Film Circuit, has hit the floors. Sources say both Suryah and Anuya would play cameo in the film. Their portions would be shot before this month-end. Suryah was last seen playing the lead role in Newtonin Moonram Vidhi, while Anuya played Sundar C’s heroine in Nagaram. Meanwhile, it was announced officially that Shankar, besides penning the screenplay and directing the film would also write dialogues for the movie along with lyricist Madhan Korgy. The other credits are Manoj Paramahamsa (cinematography), Harris Jayaraj (music), Muthuraj (art), Anthony (editing) and Na Muthukumar (lyrics). Shooting for the movie is now on at Ooty. Unlike other Shankar movies, Nanban would be completed in a quick pace and released this year itself from Madurai to Thanjavur. Following the success of Kalavani and Boss Engira Baskaran, Tamil filmdom is slowly shifting its base to Thanjavur, Kumbakonam and its adjoining areas. Hitherto Madurai was the backbone of the film industry. Recently a host of movies including Paruthiveeran, Subramaniapuram made around Madurai went on to become hit and many directors and producers chose to do films there. Then came Kalavani and Boss Engira Baskaran. Both the movies were set in Kumbakonam and rural hamlets in Thanjavur. Eventually the films did set a trend in Tamil cinema and now the focus is shifted to central Tamilnadu.
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FEB - 2011
Honour for Udhayanidhi’s wife
Kiruthiga, wife of popular young producer-cumactor Udhayanidhi Stalin, has won the World wood International Category (Short Film & Documentary) - Best Director Award for her short film Life. According to a press release, there were a total of 600 entries out of which there were 100 feature and 500 short and documentary films. From these 500 films, 100 were nominated under the competition section of the festival belonging to 13 countries. Kiruthiga’s film Life is about the value of life, love and hope, which is understood and appreciated by some people more than others. The stories revolve around a little girl called Ammu and her encounters with people and life, which are sometimes tough and sometimes full of hope.
Narthaki for a cause
Narthaki, a movie based on the lives of transgender, is entertaining and educative, says producer ‘Punnagi Poovae’ Geetha. Remember the producer earlier came up with films like Arindhum Ariyamalum and Pattiyal. The audio launch of Narthaki took place in Chennai recently. Two songs from the film were screened during this audio launch. Director of the movie Vijaya Padma said that all songs in Narthaki were written within 30 minutes each. She explained that soon after a song was filmed in Gingee, the team would travel back to Chennai and in the intervening time music director G V Prakash Kumar and lyricist Na Muthu Kumar would have another song ready. She added that re-recording and music in Narthaki would be the talk-of-the-town. Vijaya Padma added that when she narrated the story to producer, she immediately agreed to produce the film because the subject is offbeat.Kalki, a transgender who plays the lead role in this film said that Narthaki has 25 transgender in various roles out of which eight of them have significant roles. WWW.CINEMAMATTERS.COM
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Suriya
Suriya and director K V Anand have proved to be a hot combo in Tamil cinema; they teamed up to make it big in Ayan. Now they come together for Maatran, a film produced by Kalpathi S Aghoram for AGS Entertainment. The film will go on floors in March . Denying rumors that appeared in a section of media that Suriya will be seen playing a unique role of Siamese twins (two who will be conjoined, eat, sleep and do every other job together), Anand said, ‘ Suriya will appear in five different get-ups’. Suriya is currently shooting for director Murugadoss’ 7Am Arivu that has Sruthi Haasan opposite him, while K V Anand just completed Ko featuring Jiiva, Ajmal, Karthika and Piya in key characters. WWW.CINEMAMATTERS.COM
5 Suriyas
1 Film 57
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Vikram, Susee come together He has just made two films and his next one is ready for release. But he has already emerged as a person to reckon with in Tamil cinema. The man in question, director Suseendhiran of Vennilla Kabbadi Kuzhu and Nan Mahan Alla fame, is pumped up with Azhagarsamiyin Kuthirai. The movie stars Appu Kutty, who played a comical role in his earlier films and Saranya Mohan in the lead role. Meanwhile, Suseendhiran is ready to commence his next film that would have Vikram in the lead. ‘It is racy, commercial and have Vikram in dual roles’, he says.’ We have planned four different get-ups for him,’ reveals Suseendhiran. Suseendhiran says, ‘Azhagarsamiyin Kuthirai is based on a short story by writer Baskar Sakthi. It is a fun-ride and I felt that it was like reading a fable. I should thank my producer Venkat and Gautham Menon for it’. The movie is set in a village called Mallayapuram near Theni. The villagers believe that they would get copious rain after the annual Thiruvizh. When God is taken around on a huge wooden vehicle. However, they are in for a rude shock when the wooden horse goes missing. ‘At the same time, one youth Azhagarsami, who earns his livelihood by loading his horse heavily in Aagamalai Village in Periyakulam, gets ready for his marriage. But he too gets a rude shock when his horse goes missing. His marriage plan is halted’. ‘The rest is all but whether the villagers found the wooden horse or not and Azhagarsami’s travails to get his horse back and get married. He says, ‘My producers deserve special mention for they gave all liberty and gave whatever I wanted for the film.’
Vikram WWW.CINEMAMATTERS.COM
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Shaam spells success Shaam, who is on a high in Tollywood after the success of Kick, (later remade as Thillalangadi in Tamil with Jayam Ravi and Shaam) is going great guns in Telugu film industry. Recently his second movie Kathi hit the screens and Sham’s good reviews for his performance. The actor is now doing two films simultaneously in Telugu. In Veera, he shares the screen space with Ravi Teja.
Directed
by
Ramesh
Varma,
Shaam is doing a cop’s role. Taapsee is his lead lady and Ravi Teja does the role of Sham’s security. Sham’s Kshethram, in which he plays a solo hero in Telugu opposite Priyamani, is ready for release. Speaking about his future projects both in Tamil as well as in Telugu, Shaam says, ‘Ravi Teja helped me a lot to get a iconic status in Telugu cinema. I always call him my brother. He is really taking care of me like my elder brother and helps me a lot. I am always thankful to him’ In Tamil, I am doing a movie, directed by V Z Durai. He assures that in future the Tamil and Telugu fans will see a different Shaam doing various genres of movies.
SHAAM WWW.CINEMAMATTERS.COM
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Is Simbhu in Dabbang remake? Cinema Matters had reported that the blockbuster Hindi movie Dabbang would be remade in Kollywod and that Balaji Studios, the producers of Uthamaputhiran would remake it in Tamil.Ever since the news appeared, speculations were rife as to who would play the lead role in the Tamil version. There were reports that Vijay or Ajith would be approached. Some even hinted that Vishal might be the right candidate for the role. In less than 24 hours, sources say that in all probability, it would be Silambarasan aka STR, who would be acting in Dabbang remake. It is a funny cop’s role and looks likely that Silambarasan, who had seen the movie, reportedly agreed to do it. If Simbu goes ahead to do the film, in all probability, it would be his first film as police inspector. Silambarasan has completed the shooting for Vaanam; a remake of Telugu hit Vedam and is currently shooting for Poda Podi.
Udhay is a bandmaster The shooting for Oru Kal Oru Kannadi (OK OK), the maiden venture of Udhayanidhi Stalin to be directed by Boss Engira Baskaran fame Rajesh will go to floors very soon. Hanshika Motwani is slated to play his heroine. The latest buzz is that OK OK will feature Udhayanidhi in the role of a Band Master, who works in a theatre part-time. Sources say that he comes across Hansika at the theatre and that is where love blossoms between them. Quite like Rajesh’s earlier films, it would be a full-fledged hilarious entertainer with Santhanam playing Udhayanidhi’s friend. Rajesh says, ‘Udhayanidhi has the fire to perform. Hailing from a family that has cinema running in their veins, there is no doubt that Udhayanidhi will rock’. Buzz is that test shoot was done and the whole crew was pleased with the output. All the best Udhayanidhi and Rajesh! WWW.CINEMAMATTERS.COM
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Welcome Mapillai 8th April Mapillai, a remake of yesteryear Rajinikanth starrer featuring his son-in-law Dhanush in the lead role will hit the screens on 8 April. With World Cup cricket getting over in the first week of April, the producers are considering it a safe bet to release the film on 8 April. The movie stars Hansika Motwani opposite Dhanush and is directed by Sooraj, who earlier made Dhanush’s Padikadhavan.Mappillai will have the same team of technicians of Padikadhavan working together. Mani Sharma scores music while Venkatesh cranks the camera. Shiyaji Shinde is the villain. The film also marks the Kollywood comeback of Manisha Koirala, who will play the role of Dhanush’s mother-in-law. With Aadukalam doing well at the box office, one expects Mapillai, a racy action-packed entertainer laced with a family drama to repeat the magic in box office.
Two months, two films for Dhanush With his Aadukalam entering sixth week in the box office, comes Dhanush’s next Seedan. Though he plays an extended cameo, it has been released as Dhanush’s film from today. Directed by Subramaniam Siva, who worked with the actor in Thiruda Thirudi earlier, the movie stars Ananya is in key role. Buzz is that Dhanush plays a cook, who helps the lead couples reunite. The censor board officials passed the film with a U certificate. Mightily impressed by the content, they didnt give even a single cut, sources in the know claim. The music is by Dhina and it happens to be his 50th film. ‘It is a family fare and I hope it would become a big hit’, says Dhanush.
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Namitha
Namitha, who started her career in Tamil cinema with Engal Anna, went on to establish herself as the glamdoll of Kollywood. She was flooded with offers and won crazy fans that even were ready to raise a temple for her. The bombshell was considered a lucky mascot and almost all films in the last couple of years many films had some reference about Namitha. The actress, who appeared alongside Ajith in Billa and Vijay in Azhagiya Thamizh Magan, however slowly lost her way in Tamil cinema. Now the actress is staging a comeback in Kollywood with a film titled Pottu Thallu. She plays the female lead in the movie and it went on to floors recently. Sources also say Namitha might do the same role that she enacted in Billa alongside Ajith for the prequel that would go to floors very soon. Hopefully she has a successful second innings in Tamil cinema. WWW.CINEMAMATTERS.COM
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Prashanth is back
Prashanth starrer Ponnar Sankar, based on the valorous tale of two warrior brothers, who lived many centuries ago, is almost complete and ready for release.It is based on a novel titled Ponnar Sankar penned by Tamilnadu Chief Minister M Karunanidhi. When actor, producer and director Thiagarajan approached him to do it as a movie, he readily agreed, according to a press release. The movie stars Prashanth in a dual role, Divya Parameshwaren, Pooja Chopra (Miss India 2009), Jayaram, Khusboo, Prakash Raj, Sneha, Vadivelu, Seetha, Nepoleaon, Lakshmi, Raj Kiran and Sukumari. Talking about the film, Thiyagarajan said that about 5000 junior artists and 1000 various artists from the Chennai Sangamam, with knowledge of south Indian traditional arts are being employed in the film’s shoot. Around 150 horses, elephants and peacocks, have also been brought to give an authentic feel of that time period of ancient south India’.’The movie script spans across three generations of princes and warriors and has four major battle sequences, of which one has to be shot underwater. The movie has a total of four forts to be specially created and built using VFX to create the panoramic visual grandeur of long lost days’, adds Thiyagarajan.
Oviya in Agaradhi Oviya may have had a lacklusture outing in Manmadhan Ambu. But the Kalavani girl has enough in her kitty now. She is doing three movies simultaneously that includes one titled Agaradhi. Agaradhi is based on a crime thriller penned by ace writer Rajesh Kumar. The novel was originally tited Iravil Oru Vanavil. It is directed by debutant filmmaker Naga Venkatesh and stars Radeep, Monica, Archana and Keerthi Chawla. Oviya is an addition to it, as she now replaces Honey Rose as the other girl in the film. Speaking about the film, the director says, ‘it is a character-driven movie and there is equal opportunity for all in the canvas. There is no hero or heroine as such in it’. Sundar C Babu has scored half-a-dozen songs in the flick.
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Trisha’s gain
The much - acclaimed Madhur Bhandarkar’s film Fashion, which spoke about the travails of the aspiring models and ramp walkers, is all set to speak in Tamil. The original featured Priyanka Chopra and Kangana Ranaut in lead roles. It fetched Priyanka Chopra and Kangna Ranaut their first National Awards. Buzz is that a Mumbai based production company has chosen to redo the movie in Tamil. Interestingly, actress Nayantara was initially approached to do the lead role. The baton has now gone to Trisha’s hands. Also they say Priyamani has been roped into the project. However no official confirmation is made on the actresses signing up for the project. Interestingly plans are on to do the film in Telugu too. WWW.CINEMAMATTERS.COM
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Trisha krishnan
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Trisha krishnan
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1. BUTTON - PRABHU’S SHIRT 2.BINDI - PRABHU’S WIFE IN FILM 3. BANGLE - K.R.VIJAYA 4.NOBS - THREE SEATER BENCH 5. IRON BAR - IRON GATE 6 . STICK - RAVICHANDRAN
Spot The 6 Differences
Avan Ivan
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uiness Book of Records. managed to do the for Bala’s Avan Ivan.
ht-after hero appears
at has squint eyes all
hat more? Efforts are
his name in Guiness
Records for the feat.
what he has to say on
ge.’my character has
e throughout the film. I
e we began filming that
be the first time in the
ctor had to squint right
e film and this had me
d. We are in the proc-
lying to the Guinness
ecords. I met my doc-
filming, and he thought
y; I suffered from se-
aches all through the
he film. But I did it out for my director (Bala)
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He is equally thrilled to share the screen with Arya. Describing him as his best buddy, Vishal says, ‘I have known Arya for 16 years, even before we decided to get into cinema. Our friendship helped Bala a great deal. He was able to direct us with ease, in relation to the two characters we were playing.’ Having completed Avan Ivan, Vishal is off to his next, to be directed by Prabhu Deva. Sameera Reddy plays his heroine. The movie is a remake of Telugu hit Sowriyam. Unable to stop his admiration for Bala, Vishal simply winds up saying, ‘his style of filmmaking for me was like graduating from Harvard; and it gives meaning to the word actor’
“It’s double dhamaka”, saysBala Director Bala, who has completed his Avan Ivan starring Arya and Vishal, is happy at the way the movie has come out. The director, who is soft-spoken and lets his movie do all the talking, says, ‘Avan Ivan is a movie which is full of fun, excitement and eventually at the end there are elements to shock the audience’. He says ‘ a section of intellectuals may question the movie. But this movie is not for
them. I needed a success
and
this is the way to get it’. Known for his open talk, the National-award winning director says, ‘ I agree that there was a delay in completing the movie. I have some responsibilities and I should fulfill it. But happy that the movie has shaped up well and the artistes in the movie have given their heart out’. On doing a dual-hero film, (Bala did Pithamagan be-
fore with Vikram and Suriya), he says, ‘there is a great difficulty to give equal screen space to both. If one of them falls short on any of the counts, I then look at introducing dialogues or incidents to balance the whole equation.
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Suriya is all thrilled about Avan Ivan.
Suriya has a great respect for director Bala for the
latter gave him a fresh lease of life in Tamil cinema with Nandha. It is followed by a comical role in Pithamagan. A thrilled Suriya is now in all joy for his mentor chose him to do a cameo in Avan Ivan. The movie stars Arya and Vishal in lead roles. Produced by AGS Entertainment, the film is complete and
ready for release this April. The secret is out that Suriya plays himself in the movie. Close on the heels of Manmadhan Ambu, Suriya has done a cameo in AI. Interestingly in Manmadhan Ambu too he appeared as Suriya himself. Strangely, Bala completed Avan Ivan in quick pace and ensured all is well and over within ten months. WWW.CINEMAMATTERS.COM
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