Southscope December 2012 issue

DECEMBER 2012

40

VOL 04 | ISSUE 03

PART 1 OF 2

Kannada Superstar

PUNEETH RAJKUMAR “History knows what my heroes and heroines were before and after my films”

DIRECTOR AMEER

on his forthcoming films, the TV show and managing a quick getaway in between…

“I am not dying to be friends with anyone”

AMALA PAUL

on relationships, puppy love episodes, that ‘special’ gift and of course, her movies

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from the editor...

Managing Editor Aruna R Krishnan

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THE CURIOUS CASE OF 2012 This year has been a mixed bag for the South Indian film industry. Take the case of Tamil cinema. Some of the most anticipated films of the year failed to impress, while several low budget releases emerged victorious. 2012 could go down in the history of Tamil cinema as the year of small budget riveting entertainers. The Telugu film industry has a lot to feel happy about. Indeed, it wouldn’t be an exaggeration to say that 2012 belonged to Power Star Pawan Kalyan. His Gabbar Singh, which released in May this year, went on to become the biggest blockbuster in the history of Telugu cinema. What an achievement! In his own inimitable style, Pawan Kalyan followed it up with Cameraman Gangatho Rambabu, which was a hit too, though not on the same scale as Gabbar Singh.

SS Rajamouli’s Eega (Naan Ee in Tamil) made such a powerful impression that even Bollywood took notice. Some huge Tollywood stars including Mahesh Babu, Allu Arjun and Ram Charan have had massive successes this year, while the films of a few other superstars didn’t quite make a mark. Several Sandalwood stars too have had a fantastic year, while Malayalam cinema is witnessing a transformation of sorts.

As 2012 draws to a close and we begin to eagerly anticipate a new beginning, here’s hoping 2013 is a great year for good films, irrespective of the budget.

Aruna R Krishnan Managing Editor

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PUBLISHED FOR THE MONTH OF December 2012 RNI NO.: APENG/2009/29389

Raghurama Raju Kalidindi

Cover Photographer: Sunder Ramu, Styling: Kaushik Velendra, Wardrobe: Studio Saks, Ritu Kumar, Accessories: Ayesha Footwear: Mochi

Vikram Singh

Amala Paul “I am not dying to be friends with anyone”

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Audio launches, movie launches, previews – get your monthly fix of film events here

10 ~ 13

The 2012 report card for the four industries down south, reveals some interesting trends. Take a look

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“I don’t want to be compared to Sonu Sood”

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Pooja Gandhi

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is back in the reckoning with the blockbuster Dandupalya

Ameer Sultan “History knows what my heroes and heroines were before and after my films”

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Here’s your monthly fix of events

At director Venkat Prabu’s birthday celebrations while shooting for his forthcoming project Biriyani.

Director Gautham Menon at the inauguration of actor Jiiva’s One MB restaurant on Poonamalle High Road.

Telugu Megastar and Union Minister of State for Tourism Mr. Chiranjeevi and his wife visited the Film Nagar Temple in Hyderabad. The visit marked the offering of special prayers to Venkateswara and Hanuman, both of whom, it is believed, are Chiru’s favourite Gods.

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The audio launch of Guest produced by Moorthy Sreenivasulu of Little Precious Films, took place on the 17th of November, 2012, at the Prasad Lab Theatre.

Gopichand and Venkatesh were spotted at the music launch of Race at Rock Heights.

The men looked debonair and dashing, and easily had many hearts racing.

Sreeram Chandra’s new film, Prema Giima Jantaanay was launched at the Ramanaidu Studios recently.

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Gone are the days when beginning with a bang meant everything. In an understated and simple style, Tamil superstar Vijay’s next movie with AL Vijay was launched recently with a formal yet simple pooja on November 16. The function was attended by Vijay, his wife Sangeetha, his father SA Chandrasekar, Amala Paul, AL Vijay and others.

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“I don’t want to be compared to Sonu Sood” Vikram Singh is undoubtedly the next big thing in Telugu cinema. Announcing his arrival in style, he is here to stay as the big baddie of Tollywood! Aravind G Shivkamal chats with the actor

Having made his debut in the Telugu movie Rebel, Vikram has been balancing the characters of a hero and a villain with ease in Bollywood and South Indian movies respectively, and has six Hindi movies and 3 Telugu movies to his credit so far. Vikram has created a sensation as a sought-after baddie in the Telugu film industry through the Prabhas-starrer Rebel. Talks are rife that he would take over the mantle from Sonu Sood, who has also made a mark for himself in Tollywood, as the Big Baddie. Vikram is busy with two more projects – an untitled movie by Sukumar featuring Mahesh Babu in the lead and another movie with Nagarjuna.

Vikram hails from Jharkhand and entered Bollywood with the film Mumbai Godfather in 2005. Though he had to take care of his father’s business at a very young age, he secretly nurtured his dream of becoming an actor.

Following Mumbai Godfather, Vikram acted in Souten (The Other Woman), Aatma, Old is Gold, Trump Card and Kuch Kariye and is eagerly awaiting the release of two other Hindi movies - Roll, Sound, Camera, Action, which is a tribute to 100 years of Hindi Cinema and Ya Rab. “In Roll, Sound, Camera, Action, I am playing the role of a producer. It also has a couple of songs sung

by Asha Bhonsle,” says Vikram. Ya Rab is directed by Hasnain Hydrabadwala. Vicky is paired opposite model Arjumman Mughal, which happens to be her debut movie. “The audience in Pakistan and the Middle East are eagerly awaiting this movie, which will be released next summer.”

Talking about his role in Rebel, Vikram recalls his entry into South Indian movies. “I had met Raghava Lawrence, the director of Rebel, a few times through a friend in Mumbai. During one such meeting I expressed my desire to do an action movie in the South. My dream turned into reality when Lawrence approached me for Rebel.”

Vikram had to undergo a complete makeover to to get into the skin of the character that he was playing in Rebel.

“I had short hair when I was approached for Rebel. My

Vikram Singh 14

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“In Bollywood, the heroes are the ones who are larger than life” looks then were best suited for Bollywood movies, so Lawrence asked me to grow out my hair quite long to suit the role. When we met next during the shoot, he was wowed by the result!” he recalls, adding, “My character was well received by the audience. It is a great motivation for an actor from Bollywood to get noticed in a negative role. Though I had problems coping with the language, shooting for the film was a fantastic experience for me as an actor!”

Having worked in Bollywood and Tollywood, Vikram explains the inherent difference he finds in acting in both these industries. “We chill out a lot and take it easy in Bollywood. What I appreciate in Tollywood is that the entire unit is always on their toes. They are active every minute. Be it a big director or a superstar, no one wastes time. They stick to the schedule and are very punctual.

Working in an atmosphere like that, you tend to become more disciplined, yourself.”

Following Rebel, Vikram is acting in noted director Sukumar’s untitiled movie in Telugu, which features Tollywood’s very own Prince Mahesh Babu as the hero.

Ask him how it feels acting opposite such a huge star and Vikram says, “It is awesome. Who doesn’t know Mahesh Babu? He is popular all over the country, and even more so now, thanks to the Thumbs-Up ad. I knew Mahesh Babu while doing Rebel itself! We have some common friends in Mumbai. He is a great human being.”

Is Vikram doing justice to his talent by acting in negative roles? “An actor can showcase his talent appropriately only when he experiments with different roles. South Indian movies are giving me the opportunity to display my prowess in portraying negative shades. Considering all the recognition and appreication I am getting, I don’t mind any role! I got into the Telugu industry when the change was happening. As an actor, even I am changing.”

Sharing his experience of working with director Sukumar, who has delivered several hits in Tollywood, Vikram says, “So far we have finished the first schedule of shooting. Sukumar is a very calm director, who always wears a smile on his face. He is one of the finest and most talented directors, who is focused on getting what he wants. I am lucky to be working in his movie.”

But does he feel ready to take over the mantle of the Big Baddie of Tollywood from Sonu Sood? Vikram is quick to cut in, “I do not want to be compared with Sonu Sood.

I don’t want to change my image in Bollywood to that of a villain, until and unless it is a Shah Rukh Khan movie or a Salman Khan movie. I don’t want to be tagged with any name. I am going my separate way.”

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Sharing his views on the difference in negative characters portrayed in South cinemas vis-a-vis Hindi movies, Vikram feels that villains in South Indian movies are very stylish. “My debut Telugu movie Rebel was a very stylish film, and so were all the characters. If I had to essay the same role in Bollywood, I am sure it would not match the way it came out in Telugu. Any day, the South Indian film industry shows its villains better than Bollywood does. In Bollywood, the heroes are the ones who are larger than life.”

In addition to his forthcoming projects, including two Hindi films and one in Telugu, which are slated for release in 2013, Vikram will also make his debut in Kollywood. Looks like the South Indian film industry is welcoming Vikram with open arms.

“My film is a hit and that is all that matters”

Pooja went bareback in a daring act in Dandupalya, and says she has grown as an actor with the film. She also had to put on weight and speak in a different dialect, to live up to the character of Lakshmi. “Credit goes to Vidya Balan for opening the doors for heroines in Indian cinema, through her bold and superb acting in The Dirty Picture!” she says.

You are back on top with Dandupalya. What do you have to say to your critics?

From the day I signed the film, till the day before the movie was released, everyone I came across said that I had to be mad to accept the role of Lakshmi in Dandupalya. Many mocked at me saying that this would be my last film. People wondered how the sweet girl from Mungaru Male could take up a role in a crime-based movie. Many even said that I did not have good offers coming my way, and that was why I accepted this role.

None of these comments affected me in any way. I was always positive about the role, and my inner voice told me that the movie would be a hit. When I went to the premiere of the movie, the theatre was full. I was over the moon when everyone appreciated my acting and congratulated me. A film critic wrote of me as having risen like a phoenix. What more do I need? I gave my all to this movie, and it has paid off.

Was it a conscious decision to show your bare back in Dandupalya?

I have shown my back in my debut movie ‘Mungaru Male’ as well. Actually, I just had one thread on my back in a song. In Dandupalya, my back is fully bare.

People did not say a word about me showing my back in Mungaru Male back then, because it was a glamorous role. In Dandupalya, because it is a de-glam role, I am listening to these comments. I still maintain that the scene was shot very beautifully. In fact, the bareback scene in the movie is nothing compared to the third degree torture meted out to the gang members in real life! This shot in the movie shows how tough Lakshmi is, how ruthless she is, and not ashamed or guilty of anything. When I was told about this shot, I did wonder initially about how it would be portrayed. But the director shot it in such a dignified way! I am proud to be a part of Dandupalya and play a role like this.

Following the success of Dandupalya, Pooja Gandhi has risen to the top in Sandalwood. She chats with Aravind G Shivkamal

Pooja Gandhi 18

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Your critics say your skinshow has paid off…

Dandupalya has become a hit and has completed 100 days. It is being dubbed in Telugu and Tamil. People have liked the movie and have appreciated my role. Nothing else matters. Be it a hit or a flop, I have always given my roles my 100 percent. This movie has completely changed me as an actor and taken me to the next level. It is true that I am now flooded with offers after Dandupalya, and am getting all kind of roles. Currently I am working in Subhadra, followed by Hantaki, which is a fantastic script. The other project is Anjali, again a woman-oriented film. This will go on floors next year.

Reading books of all kinds

Your favorite author?

Paulo Coelho

You hate?

People who irritate me and the ones that talk too much

An actor you want to date?

Gerard Butler (PS: I love you)

How easily can a man win you over?

Not that easily, actually. A man has to go through a really hard time to please me.

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How would you describe your journey in films till date?

Why not? I am asking for what I deserve...

Honestly, it’s been a roller-coaster ride. I have grown as a person. You learn from your experiences and that is when you understand the value of people who struggle. Today, I am happy both personally and professionally. I have had big hits followed by a lot of flops too. Each step teaches you something. I can definitely say that my journey as an actor has been amazing.

We have been hearing that you will be part of Dandupalya 2

You have been extremely successful without a godfather. How was that possible?

Srinivas Raju, the director of Dandupalya, is working on the script and characters for Dandupalya 2. I am yet to hear the script and have not signed the film as of now. If all goes well, I will be a part of this movie too, which will begin work next year.

I definitely do not believe we need a godfather. Nobody can make or break you. Whatever I have achieved so far, I have done so on my own strength, with my willpower and the support of my family. I have never asked anybody for work; it has come to me on its own. I treat every movie as my first and give it my best. The Kannada film industry has always supported me and appreciated me for what I am. I have done 35 films till date, and that’s proof enough of one’s efforts. Today, I am called ‘namma hudugi’ (our girl) in the industry.

Have you increased your remuneration following the success of Dandupalya?

Your favorite hobby?

Trust and we have undertaken a lot of programmes to this effect. Earlier, we reached out to small groups. I realised that we needed a bigger platform to reach out to more people and make a difference. I am the working president for the Youth wing of the Janata Dal (Secular). I don’t know what the future holds for me. I don’t know if I will contest elections.

You are planning to produce a film for yourself.

Is that news true?

Yes, I am planning to produce a movie. I am still working on it. I have been in the Kannada industry for seven years and have gained a lot of knowledge about films. If you are creative and have the right kind of ideas, I think you cannot go wrong in your choice.

Your sister Radhika Gandhi has already made a mark. Some say that you could be jealous of her…

Never! We are the best of friends! Radhika is also a fashion designer and helps me with my wardrobe. We support each other in our respective professions. Most importantly, we are secure in the kowledge that we are always there for each other.

We read that even your mother is debuting in movies.

Yes, she is debuting through Subhadra, where she plays my onscreen mother too. She was active in theatre before marriage. It was fun playing mother and daughter on screen!

What prompted you to enter politics? Do you intend to contest the elections?

You have been acting opposite new comers.

Is it difficult to find a place in established actors’ movies?

I have always accepted whatever has come to me, with dignity and professionalism. It is the good projects that matter, not with whom you are sharing the screen space.

Why should I reject acting opposite anyone?

What do you like the Kannada film fans to remember you as?

After my debut film Mungaru Male, people called me the Mungaru Male girl. Now, they identify with Lakshmi’s character in Dandupalya. Though a Punjabi by birth, I am lucky that I am accepted as a ‘truly Kannada girl’. And that is how I would want my fans to remember me.

Are you keen on being seen in negative roles?

I don’t know. I never thought that a film like Dandupalya would come my way. Positive or negative, I would like to do movies that have good scripts and characters. Negative roles, no doubt, give you some excitement and challenge.

I have always been associated with NGOs, and have been working towards the rehabilitation of sex workers. I run a

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“History knows what my heroes and heroines were before and after my films” Ameer Sultan manages to be in the news pretty much all the time – both for his fantastic movies, and for his forthright opinions. A man of many talents – whether it’s making not-quite-a-love-story like Mounam Pesiyadhey, a markedly different mother-son story like Ram, or his biggest hit to date, the rough-and-tough Paruthiveeran, or even acting, dancing and producing – he’s someone who breaks boundaries in a regular fashion. Pavithra Srinivasan catches up with the director for an hour of conversation during which, far from his reputation of being a veritable spitfire, he faces her questions with equanimity and disarming frankness

So, what are you working on right now?

Dubbing [with a yawn]. And it’s for Aadhi Bhagavan, yes.

How’s it going?

Quite good, so far. The dubbing is almost done.

Could you tell me something about the story of Aadhi Bhagavan?

Ah, see there’s nothing really big about the film.

You’re saying this about your own film? Why? Because it’s true. It’s an action film, and that’s all.

How is this film different from what you’ve done so far?

I’ve done realistic films all this while. Like the one that explored the love between a mother and son. And then in Paruthiveeran, it was all about a love story in a village. This film is different from them all in the sense that it has lots of songs, fights and stunts. I remember when I was young; they used to have these posters of films, depicting songs and action. You’ll feel like just entering the cinema hall and watching them. I wanted to make a film like that.

So basically, you’re doing a formula film?

Absolutely. And not just low-key either. It has 6 stunts and 6 songs [chuckles].

Why did you want to do a film like this, now?

You could say the circumstances turned out right. How, you ask? Well, the last 3 of my films have all participated in international festival circuits. It became, like, “Oh, Ameer’s films have always the reputation of getting accepted in film festivals.” So I thought, “I want to do good, classy films and I have done just that.” See, awards for an artist are like a mul-kreedam, a crown of thorns. You can never wear one happily. If you haven’t won

anything for once, people will come up and ask, “Why have you not won anything this time?” And you can’t make films just for the sake of winning awards either.

You’ve been doing a lot of acting lately, like Yogi and Yuddham Sei. In the beginning, I never wanted to act; I was pushed to that point. If there ever was a movie that made me want to act, it was Paruthiveeran. When I narrated the whole story of the movie to my friends and wellwishers, they insisted that I should be the one to do it. I declined, because I didn’t come here to act. But circumstances gave me the opportunity to do it. In a way, I was angry.

I wanted to know what it was all about.

Like that part in Yuddham Sei, and the song sequence. I found it difficult to get into the mindset at first. Like for the film Yogi, when the director yelled “Action!” I could see the trolley not moving, but he couldn’t. And then Siva came up and said, “Annae (brother), you’re an artiste now; I will see to the trolley and all those things.”

Are you a very angry person? You seem to give off that impression.

Not at all! [laughs] Others keep their anger and opinions to themselves; I merely express it.

What about Annakodiyum Kodi Veeranum? Why are you not doing that film?

Director Bharathiraja wanted me to do a role in the film, and then later, he said the story had changed, and that I could do a role at some other point. I said, OK. I’m fine with either situation.

Now that you’re an established director in Tamil cinema, what else do you hope to achieve?

There are so many lives and places not yet documented or recorded in Tamil cinema; the lives of Tamils that have not yet been discussed and brought forward at all. Lots of them! After Paruthiveeran, other films came up, like Vennila Kabaddi Kuzhu. Many beautiful stories can be told in this genre. Of course, a lot of silly movies happened in the same vein too, but still ... [laughs].

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asked, “Why are they still in prison even after serving a sentence?” That’s how I am. And if you’re going to say that even this is wrong ... well, I don’t want my life to be shrunk to just one thing.

What was the whole issue about stolen scripts, and with assistant directors?

You resigned, and then withdrew it – what exactly happened?

You were a trend-setter, with your movies in a natural setting...

At one point, yes. But later I felt sad, wondering why I even made Paruthiveeran!

You want to know why? Because all the movie heroes that came after, wandered around in a dirty kaili and scruffy beard – but that’s not what I wanted to say. My film didn’t focus on men with tousled hair. It was about a village, where a man lived like this – it was a record of the village and the focus was not on the hero. But the way it turned out, everyone has been fixated on bearded heroes. It’s as if only the villains were the focus. It felt very strange.

Do you always go for hard-hitting themes?

Nothing like that. Here’s the one-line for a story I’ve had in mind: There’s a love-triangle in a silent mountain forest. It’s between 2 men and a woman. I want to make this film; I think it has potential. But I can’t think like that all the time. The thing is, now the hype is for the action genre. Also, Tamil cinema is a fullfledged business. I can’t bring in 2 heroes.

There won’t be fights in the movie, so there’s no question of two heroes agreeing to do the movie; I’ll have to go for new faces. I have to look at the budget too. That’s the problem.

My salary will be reduced. Everything has to be accounted for: it’s not just heroes and directors but everyone’s salaries that have increased, right? Music, cinematography, heroines ... I can’t do something like Paruthiveeran now. Marketing strategies and other things have to be considered. I still want to do different movie, though.

You come across as a forceful person.

What’s to be done? I’ll admit that’s how I am [laughs]. In Tamil history, they speak of women who have beaten away enemies 24

with murams; they talk of “Veeram vilaincha mannu,” – Courage was born here – so I’ve been taught to be this way.

But does this help you as an artiste?

Doesn’t it land you in a lot of controversies?

Slight correction, here. In recent times, in Kali Kaalam, controversies define everything.

These days, plain speech is controversy.

That’s the problem. Truth is often labelled that way. Sometimes, people conceal the truth for the sake of survival, and go with the herd. After all, we have to adjust with others.

Why should we speak when others are silent, is what they think. Because when we do, it becomes controversy. It’s not like I just spout these things. Magazines write anything, these days. I don’t say the first thing that pops into my head, but speak with reference to a certain incident and say, “Maybe you could have handled it this way?” For example, during a recent audio release, there were people from Karnataka present, an MLA, and they were speaking of how they’ve given so much in the way of artists and art. So I stood up and said, “We’re very happy with all that; now, please give us water too, as bountiful as you are.”

Who else can I ask? If you notice, I didn’t put that question to a certain superstar from Karnataka. I didn’t ask that of a producer from there, no. That would have been a controversy. But these are both government people. If this is what they call controversy, then I really don’t know what to say. I speak at various places, meet friends, both men and women, and they have their thoughts, but no one to listen to them. I do. I add their thoughts along with mine and represent them.

Director Seeman and I spoke up, you know, regarding the issue where Tamils have been in prison for 21 years, even after serving their full sentence. Why is this allowed to happen?

Human Rights Commissions are speaking up about these issues; we can, too. That’s why I

Well, that’s a long story. [We prod, and he elaborates.] See, an assistant director claimed that Thaandavam was his story, while director AL Vijay said it was his. So we, a group of directors, watched the film and compared the scripts. There were not many similarities. In that case, how can I pronounce judgement at once – especially when the High Court said the movie could be released – and then pick up the issue later? The case was in court.

After that, how were we to say anything about it? The assistant directors took offence to this. The truth is Vijay had more evidence on his side, regarding the script. I resigned because there was some confusion and I didn’t want any unnecessary fallout, not because there was any fault on my side. I simply didn’t want to make things worse.

Director Bharathiraja and the Council came together and asked me to continue; so I agreed.

There are rumours that heroes and heroines that have worked with you once, don’t wish to work with you again.

I don’t know how true that is. If it is, then they should be sorry, not me. All my heroes and heroines – well, history knows what they were before and after my films. And anyway, what have they done, after, say, winning awards? Where’s the heroine of Paruthiveeran, after she won the National Award? I’m happy to work with new people, because I have the opportunity to showcase other artistes.

Do you take a long time to finalise your heroines?

Well, that’s true. I think this started with Paruthiveeran, not even Ram. I needed a Tamil-speaking heroine. I would never have chosen someone who didn’t know the language, because she needed to understand what I speak. She also had to be darkskinned. You tell me, can I possibly cast Hansika [Motwani] for a role like this? She looks smooth and beautiful, and even if you cover her skin in coal and soot, it wouldn’t work. There are many takers for glamour, but for Yogi, I needed Madhumitha. For my latest, I needed someone who could have two kinds of faces – not Tamil, but also a

bit homely. And someone who could look forceful when angry. I wanted a combination of all this. Truth be told, only Nayantara would have been perfect – she has both homely and violent looks. But she’s so busy; artistes like her can only give 10-15 days in a month. I don’t know if she would have submitted to 9 months with me. So, I had to search endlessly.

Who are the directors and actors that you respect today?

I’ll be frank. My favourites are Mahendran, Mani Ratnam, K Balachandar and Bharathiraja, because they made Tamil cinema great. Yes, directors like Sridhar laid the foundation, but the next generation really built on it. As for heroines, Nadhiya has always been a favourite, as well as Radha.

Among today’s girls, Sneha and Bhavana make the mark.

Ever considered entering politics?

The moment I voted, and began to discuss good and bad, I’ve come to politics. Who else will come, if not for people like us? Tamil Nadu has always been ruled by people from other states. But I have no interest in joining parties and such. My way of politics is to discuss peoples’ problems and do something about it. I don’t want to get stuck in a position. I’m not saying it’s wrong – it just won’t be right for me.

Where do you think Tamil cinema is, at this point?

In my view, Tamil cinema needs more realistic films. It’s a good thing that small budget films are being made, but there are so many bad, mokkai films parading about under that tag, which are horrible. They’re tiresome!

“Truth be told, only Nayantara would have been perfect...”

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The Rajkumar Riding High!

Puneeth Rajkumar is a relaxed man these days. He is ending 2012 on a high note by completing the shooting of his home production Yaare Koogadali. Directed by Tamil filmmaker Samuthirakani, the movie has set very high expectations from the superstar, particularly since it is being produced by his home banner. Aravind G Shivkamal takes you through his conversation with the star

Puneeth Rajkumar 26

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“I just concluded the shooting… I am also through with the dubbing for Yaare Koogadali. Now, I want to take a short break before embarking on a new project. Let me settle down for a while,” declares the Power Star of the Kannada film industry.

Adored for his straightforward nature, Puneeth is indeed entitled to this break. He has put in his heart and soul into Yaare Koogadali and the film is likely to be released this month. Though Samuthirakani has based this movie on his Tamil hit Poraali, the Kannada version has had several alterations to suit the local market.

Puneeth is paired opposite Bhavana for the second time, after the duo delivered the blockbuster Jackie in 2010.

The movie also has actor Yogi with whom Puneeth was seen in the blockbuster Hudugaru in 2011. Yaare Koogadali has the right mix of actors and technicians. As a consequence, the expectations from Puneeth’s fans have reached an all-time high. Every detail of the movie was given due attention. “It was fun shooting for the movie. It has come out on the expected lines,” he adds.

It is routine for Puneeth to take a break during the yearend before starting a new project. He is following the same practice this year as well. Though there are plenty of projects lined up for his nod, he has not yet made up his mind. “No, as of now, I will not take any decision. Let this movie (Yaare Koogadali) release, I will announce my next project in time,” Puneeth points out.

There were talks about Puneeth being roped in by acclaimed directors, including Gautham Vasudev Menon and Prabhudeva for Kannada films It has been Puneeth’s desire to work with top directors and technicians to make a difference to the Kannada film market. Probe him more, and he replies, “Yeah, there were discussions about those projects. Hmm, some of them may materialise, I guess.”

Though Gautham Menon’s movie may be delayed, it is being said that Prabhudeva’s movie is on the cards, but only during the second half of 2013.

Coming back to Puneeth’s next immediate agenda, he is keenly looking forward to the second season of Kannadada Kotyadhipathi (the Kannada version of Kaun Banega Crorepathi). The first season of the popular show was a mega hit in Karnataka with the episodes registering high TRPs. Incidentally the show also widened the fan base of the superstar.

“The shooting for the second season of Kannadada Kotyadhipathi is expected to begin sometime in January.

I’m eagerly looking forward to it, as it opens up new vistas for me to interact with my fans at a closer level,” the actor notes.

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So, if Puneeth gets busy with the show during January, we can safely assume that his next project would take off only during February.

The Power Star had one release this year – Anna Bond – directed by Duniya Soori and the movie was declared a hit. The movie featured Priyamani and Nidhi Subbaiah as the female leads and the songs ended among the top 10 of 2012.

However, the aim of his home production banner is to elevate Yaare Koogadali to the next level. Here’s wishing Puneeth success for his next release.

Photographer: Sunder Ramu, Styling: Kaushik Velendra, Wardrobe: Studio Saks, Ritu Kumar, Accessories: Ayesha; Footwear: Mochi 30

“I am not dying to be friends with anyone” It wasn’t one of those low-key Sundays at Amala Paul’s residence in Chennai, when Shankaran Malini caught up with the star. Coming across as confident and quite blunt, Amala chats nineteen to the dozen about everything from movies and her own ambitions to puppy love episodes, relationships, ‘that special gift’ from a ‘special’ person and her favourite co-stars…

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Amala’s assistant had come over to help with her packing, which was on in full swing.

She appeared to be preparing for a rather busy schedule – the star was going to have a packed next few days at least. Preparations were on for her departure to Mumbai that evening to kick-start the shooting schedule for the Vijay-AL Vijay film in which she plays Vijay’s love interest. Her travels would then take her to Hyderabad to shoot the climax portions for her Telugu film Naayak with Ram Charan. And just until the previous day, she was shooting for Nimirndhu Nil being directed by Samuthirakani. Naturally, the first half of the Sunday was time-out for Amala Paul, to just relax, be herself and spend time chatting with her friends and family.

I walk in to join in the fun. Enjoying her undivided attention, as I enter, is her latest pet, Mynu, an eight-month-old Shih Tzu. “Mynu was gifted to me by a very special person, when I was shooting for a Malayalam film with Mohanlal. Now Mynu has become more special to me than that special person!” she laughs. “So now have you got something interesting there?”, she asks me, amid peals of laughter. “Mynu is like my baby, she is a part of my family. The name Mynu was Mohanlal’s suggestion, after my hit film, Mynaa. Mynu doesn’t accompany me to the sets. She’s just here now because my mom is not around. Usually my mom takes care of her. Before I leave for Mumbai, I will send her off to Cochin to my mom!” she explains, settling down on a sofa for the interview.

Devoid of any trace of makeup and dressed in a pair of shorts and a tee, with a pair of

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Starting off with a very casual banter about her entry into cinema, Amala says, “It’s of course very difficult for a beginner in the industry, because there is nobody to give you advice, to steer you to the right track or to judge you. But if you have someone from the film industry in your family, it’s like taking a lift to the topmost floor rather than climbing your way up the stairs. In that sense, all that I am today is through my own hard work. I am totally self-made. If I had debuted with a big hero or a big director, I wouldn’t have known what real cinema is. I started off with a very low budget film. I didn’t have a caravan, I didn’t have an assistant. But I didn’t have any problems with it. My self-confidence has always been my biggest strength.”

Amala clarifies that her tryst into movies is not a money-making pursuit. “I am financially very secure. I don’t need my film earnings to eke out a living. My mother is a very good singer. My father’s side has been into plays. My brother, Abhijeet Paul, who is in the merchant navy in the US, is my biggest support system.” And how is that, I want

“It’s uncanny how the things that we chumma said in school have come true”

“Mynu was gifted to me by a very special person”

to know. “He has more knowledge than me about films. He follows cinema very closely.

For instance, just recently he called up and said that my film schedule with Allu Arjun is starting, when I myself didn’t know anything about it! For me, family always comes first.

Even in the long run when I get married, I am clear about the fact that I would give my family life top priority.”

Amala Paul is part of Ram Charan’s film Naayak, directed VV Vinayak, which is tentatively slated for a Sankranthi release.

She is clearly in awe of her co-star. “In spite of being Chiranjeevi garu’s son, Ram Charan has created his own strong identity. He is a perfectionist, and is very grounded. We shot in Iceland, for a song which is a remix of one of Chiranjeevi garu’s famous numbers.

Obviously, there were huge expectations from the song and I was very tense, but Ram Charan was so composed about it all that I quite awe-struck.”

But I am curious to know why Amala keeps venturing into films that feature two heroines.

In fact, Naayak features Kajal Aggarwal too.

Amala smiles, “I am very clear about my role. Everyone knows that Charan is doing a dual role in the film. And, so what if a movie has two heroines? I don’t see any problems in it; I don’t think I need to worry about such things because there is a director to take care of the significance of your role in the film.

Also, in a way it’s a lot of fun on the sets of a film with two heroines. Because usually, I am the only girl around and it gets boring! It’s fun to have someone for company.” Surely it has been a fantastic year for her in Telugu since she has bagged roles opposite two of the most sought after stars – Allu Arjun and Ram Charan. How did she land the role in Iddarammayilatho, the Allu Arjun-starrer directed by Puri Jagannadh? “See, it’s a performance-oriented role, unlike Naayak, which is a commercial film. It’s a very beautiful love story. The director saw earlier films of mine, and approached me for the role.” Wasn’t her name Anakha, in her first film, Sindhu Samaveli? “No, my name has always been Amala. The Wikipedia entry still says that my alternative name is Anakha. I suppose the director and producers of my first film would have named it so in the credits, to avoid confusion between the other Amala and me. Otherwise, I have some pet names too – like Ams, which is how people in the industry call me. To my family members and close friends, I am Amu and Brat,” she chuckles.

Wardrobe: Studio Saks, Accessories: Ayesha

“I slapped a guy who was trying to act funny...”

spectacles on, Amala declares, “This is the real me. I wear spectacles because I have short sight. This is how I love chilling out on a holiday – catching up with my friends and family on the phone, talking, sharing…”

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The Real Amala Paul Growing Up

Wardrobe: Studio Saks, Accessories: Ayesha; Footwear: Mochi

Amala has vivid, fond memories of her childhood. “I lived in Cochin; we have even bought two other houses in Cochin recently.

I studied in an all-girls school and all-girls college, Nirmala HSS and St. Teresa’s College respectively. By the way, Asin is also from the same college!” she adds. “I was a very normal child. I would stand in front of the mirror and pose like a Miss India or a Miss Universe. I had two close friends back in school – Ria and Ashwini. Ria wanted to be a model, I wanted to be an actor and Ashwini wanted to be a fashion designer.

Believe it or not, Ashwini became a designer, I became an actor and only Ria was stuck with engineering! It’s uncanny how the things that we chumma said in school have come true. Ashwini called me up recently and said she would design my clothes and work with me. I have one more gang of friends from college.”

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She continues adding, “Prabhu (Solomon, the director) sir was the first one to say that there is some magic in my eyes. I won a fashion competition when I was in the tenth standard, at the farewell event, for having the best eyes.

It was my fist ever compliment. I am still in touch with the school gang I used to hang around with. We used to go to Bangalore and Goa on holidays. But in college, I didn’t have so much time to freak out with them, as I was busy with films. I can even recall the first time I bunked a day in school to watch Pokkiri (laughs).”

What about crushes? Were there many?

“Right now there are many who have a crush on me!” She laughs. “I had a sort of puppy love episode when I was in the ninth standard and again a puppy love episode sometime later. But it never got to anything beyond that.” she says.

I ask her for her opinion of some of her peers in the industry. Initially, she is a little hesitant to comment. I prod and convince her to share some thoughts. “I have worked with Anushka in Deiva Thirumagal. Despite being such a huge star, she likes to be a very normal human being. She is very lucky too; it has been several years since she entered the industry, and she has managed to stay on top till today. Tamannaah, is a sweetheart, I remember when I met her for the first time, and it is amazing that she is the same person even today. I am working with Kajal now, and she is very straightforward; that is one of the qualities I like about her. As for Hansika, I don’t know anything about her.”

Regimented in her fitness, Amala makes it a point to work out regularly. “I am very particular about my gym and workout sessions. I love swimming. I believe in drinking lots of water. In fact, if there is one health tip I believe in, it is drinking water.”

Amala is a total shopaholic. “I love Dubai and New York – they are fabulous shopping destinations. Perfumes are my favourite indulgence. You will find at least 2 or 3 bottles of perfume in my bag at any point.

That and of course, my lip balm and sunscreen. I am the ultimate spa addict. In fact, it is my biggest weakness. My friends and even team members call me massage maami. Recently I went on a 3-day holiday with my friend and on each of those days, I went for a massage!”

Speaking of shopping, I am reminded of a recent incident involving her at Chennai’s Express Avenue Mall. I ask her about it. “See, my good friend Ramya and I had gone there and we were having a difficult time because we were mobbed. I actually slapped a guy who was trying to act funny. I don’t like people getting into my personal life or taking undue advantage of it. Something should be done to ban even Twitter in India, because many people do not know how to use it the right way. I don’t like the way my family pictures come out. We take so much time in deciding the look for a film and when we shoot, somebody just clicks it on the mobile and uploads it on Twitter and other social networking sites. It’s so hurtful.”

Moving on, the linkups doing the rounds about Amala Paul pique my curiosity – I am eager to know of her alleged affair with AL Vijay. There is no smoke without fire, is there? I ask her if she was cast opposite Vijay because of her closeness to the

director. She begins to laugh out loud. “This question continues to dog me. You should ask Vijay how I bagged that role. I guess it had to come to me and it did. AL Vijay is a friend and a mentor. I would go so far as to say that he is someone I would want to worship… I am not in a relationship with him. Even if you are committed, that doesn’t have anything to do with work. I am very

much single and ready to mingle. I want to choose the person I want to marry. But nothing has happened till now. When I do marry, I will tell the world about it.”

Then what of her alleged relationship with Arya during the filming of Vettai? “Arya and I are just very good friends,” she says simply.

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Her life onscreen Her first film in Tamil – Sindhu Samaveli, was one of a kind. Would she ever do a film like that again? She laughs out when I ask her. “Until my dying day, I can’t avoid this question, I think! I was only 18 when I did Sindhu Samaveli. I didn’t even know what the relationship between a father-in-law and daughter-in-law was all about. Neither was I aware of what all that actually, seriously, meant and implied. On the positive side, though, mine was a good performance. My co-star, Harish Kalyan, was also very young.

We would sit and stare at each other, and at the things that used to go on, as though we were watching an adult film!” But Amala believes that the script had a strong message.

“Frankly, I didn’t do anything that was vulgar.

Given a choice, I won’t do a film of the same genre again, of course!”

Amala is widely regarded as being quite forthright, so I ask her if that quality has ever landed her in trouble. “I am not dying to make friends with anyone, the only thing that matters to me is my family – my father, mother and brother and some close friends of mine. I don’t even keep in touch with my co-stars or most of the people I work with.

We can’t impress everyone and if you do, then you are not being true to yourself. When it comes to work, I am a director’s artiste. All my directors have had a very good working experience with me so far.”

The actor has had her share of films that she was almost a part of but missed out on. “Dhanush’s film Sotta Vazhakutty didn’t work out for me, purely because of unavoidable circumstances,” she clarifies.

Amala holds some of her co-stars in high regard. “Each actor I have worked with so far has had his pluses. I never thought I would meet Mohanlal, leave alone work with him.

He is a legend, and is full of positive energy.

He was excellent as a friend and a co-star.

As for Vikram, I always used to find him exciting. The responses he would get from the public for his performance, his excitement about each role – it would all be as though it were his first film. In Ram Charan, I found a grounded and composed personality!”

With her hands full in the South Indian industry, Amala is not keen on Bollywood 36

right now. “I think there are lots of women in Bollywood already, and many are more talented than I am. I am happy with my Tamil, Telugu and Malayalam projects. I did get an interesting offer from Bollywood, but my dates didn’t work out.”

Amala has a splendid year coming up; in fact, 2013 could well be her year of reckoning.

“2012 started with me, with a bang – Vettai, Kadhalalil Sodhappuvadhu Yeppadi and Muppozhudhum Un Karpanaigal. Of course in the middle, I disappeared for a while due to my personal commitments. I had to complete my degree as well. For me it was important because it was a promise I had made to my dad. I love my work and I am happy about how my career is shaping up.”

“My friends call me massage maami” 37

And the report cards are here!

Looking at the hits and misses of 2012, we find a few trends emerging

A lot left to be desired....

Mixed Bag....

Tamil cinema this year has thrown quite the sockdolager. Much-anticipated and awaited releases that had hopes aplenty pinned on them floundered leaving everyone stunned, while small budget movies that would otherwise have been written off, did well at the box office.

The year opened with two Pongal releases that did not disappoint, although Nanban was a remake of 3 Idiots. Crossing a solid 100 days on April 20, the film became a blockbuster. Small budget endeavours with a simple but hard-hitting message did quite well in the box office – think Pandiraj’s Marina telling you the painful story of the lives of beachside children and Balaji Sakthivel’s Vazhaku En 18/9. As a wave of newcomers turned up with their films in tow, some did well, some could have fared better. Films that came laden with promise, the likes of which include Aishwarya Dhanush’s 3, starring Dhanush and Shruti Haasan had a lukewarm response. Billa 2 also came as a big disappointment to Thala Ajith’s fans, with many blaming the fate of the movie on the lacklustre direction by Chakri Toleti.

Offbeat cinema and niche themes by some of Tamil cinema’s new breed of filmmakers did not fail to disappoint. Think Vignesh Menon’s Vinmeengal, Andrew Louis’ Leelai and Dhanapal and Thangaswamy’s Rattinam, which redefined storytelling.

The riveting Pizza and the more recent Naduvula Konjam Pakkatha Kaanum heralded the success of small budget films that were very high on entertainment.

Period cinema made its appearance, too, but not with much fanfare, as it opened to divergent reviews. On the comedy front, this year belonged entirely to Santhanam.

In fact, a lot of credit for the blockbuster success of OKOK starring Udhayanidhi Stalin, goes to Santhanam.

However, some of the biggest magnum opuses that had expectations riding high did not do well. Thaandavam, with its

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It was indeed a mixed bag for Tollywood in 2012 with several big budget movies bombing at the BO while there were unexpected hits by B-list actors. The year began with a bang after the Mahesh Babu-Puri Jagannadh movie Businessman kept the cash registers ringing. However, very soon the perception that movies of superstars would be a hit turned wrong with Siddharth’s Love Failure, Ravi Teja’s Nippu, Devudu Chesina Manushulu & Daruvu, Rana Daggubati’s Naa Ishtam, Jr NTR’s Dammu, Balakrishna’s Adhinayukudu & Srimannarayana, director Sekhar Kammula’s Life is Beautiful, Prabhas’ Rebel and Prakash Raj’s Dhoni delivering poor performances.

brilliant technology and stunts disappointed the audience, whilst the Suriya starrer, Maattraan, did not strike a chord either.

Mugamoodi, which was also expected to be a big success managed to draw only a tepid response from the public. The gamechanger for the fate of big budget movies has proved to be Vijay’s blockbuster Diwali release, Thuppakki.

Overall, the verdict is simple. Tamil cinema hasn’t had the best year, but only on the big-budget films front. Films made by newbie directors have succeeded handsomely, paving the way for more such effort from small producers and new directors. When it comes to the big stars, what Vikram and Suriya could not do this year, yesteryear legend Sivaji Ganesan accomplished, as the digitized version of Karnan rekindled old memories and fared well at the box office. In more ways than one, Sivaji’s Karnan and the forthcoming 3D version of the Rajinikanth-starrer Sivaji could prove to be the redemption of an otherwise disappointing year for most big Tamil stars!

But the success of the films of a few top stars impacted the box office enormously – Pawan Kalyan led this list by a mile with his Gabbar Singh becoming the biggest blockbuster in the history of Telugu cinema and his second release Cameraman Gangatho Rambabu also becoming a hit.

Films of stars like Ram Charan (Racha) and Allu Arjun (Julayi) kept cash registers ringing throughout. Of course, the success of Eega thanks to the vision of star director SS Rajamouli, has created a record of sorts, thus proving that Telugu audiences appreciate creative themes that provide wholesome entertainment. The very recent Krishnam Vande Jagadgurum directed by Krish, starring Rana Daggubati has opened to a good response. Alongside these biggies, small budget movies featuring emerging stars also ruled the BO. Ishq (Nithin Reddy); Poola Rangudu (Sunil); Ee Rojulu; Sudigadu (Allari Naresh) and Denikaina Ready (Vishnu Manchu) were all declared hits.

“A few stars have been able to make a strong comeback while emerging stars have consolidated their position through hit films. This cannot be termed a new trend, but has definitely given us food for

thought,” points out producer S Srinivasa.

The prevalent feeling in Tollywood is that some well-known filmmakers and directors seem to have lost touch with the audiences.

For instance, films based on socio-fantasy themes continue to remain the focus of some filmmakers, while audiences seem to be tired of watching such movies.

At the same time, a change in trends also does not seem to be working in Tollywood.

Acclaimed director Sekhar Kammula came up with an interesting project – Life is Beautiful – with the movie being full of newcomers. However, the movie failed to attract audiences to the theatres. On the other hand, Sudigadu has marked the rebirth of Allari Naresh, and Ee Rojulu, a film made on a shoe-string budget, raked in sufficient monies with a new star cast.

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A confusing bundle of mixes....

New faces and old traces....

Malayalam cinema, some opine, is at the crossroads. This is not entirely untrue; a new breed of directors has come in and they have started making films the way it has not been made for a long time. A sensitive portrayal of issues, a lot of unconventional and non-linear narratives, multi-narrative styles and daring approaches towards filmmaking – this is exactly what the new affair is all about.

And the results? Some say that cinema has ceased to be a star-studded affair and films have decent runs even without big stars.

But take a close, analytical look at what happened in Malayalam cinema in 2012 and we bet you will be confused at least to some extent.

In the Kannada film industry there wasn’t any particular trend to go by, as established actors delivered hit films. The only development this year was the emergence of new faces and struggling actors, who featured in BO successes. Consequently, producers have now started investing in projects featuring a mix of established stars and emerging actors.

For instance, Govindaya Namaha, a comedy featuring comedian Jaggesh’s brother Komal, turned out to be a superhit.

For a long time, producers had shunned Komal. Now they are in a hurry to sign him for their projects. Similarly, Dhruva Sarja, nephew of established actor Arjun, debuted through Addhoori opposite Radhika Pandit.

The movie went on to become one of the biggest hits of 2012 and Dhruva now has three films on hand.

Another comedy – Snehitaru – featuring lesser-known actors was also a hit.

Comedian Sharan, who turned a fulltime hero with Rambo, shot to the limelight too. In addition, movies based on romance, thriller, period and epic themes and rural stories have also hit the box office jackpot.

“We cannot conclude that comedy was the flavour of the year just because three comedy movies were successful. Films of other genres have also performed well at the BO. There is no particular trend in the Kannada film industry this year,” contends producer Ha Cha Sathyanna.

However, an emerging trend is the entry of new directors with interesting stories to narrate. These directors have been able to deliver hits with lesser-known stars.

Consequently, they have bagged interesting projects with top stars.

All the leading stars of the Kannada film industry were able to maintain their top positions by delivering hit movies

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throughout the year. Puneeth Rajkumar (Anna Bond), Upendra & Godfather (Katariveera Surasundarangi); Darshan (Krantiveera Sangolli Rayanna); Yogi (Sidlingu); and Duniya Vijay (Bheema Teeradalli) were able to deliver hits.

However, a few other established actors, such as Ravichandran, Shivarajkumar, Diganth, Ganesh and Srinagara Kitty had to stare at defeat, as their movies did not perform well.

Agreed that big budget, star-studded films like Casanova and King and the Commissioner flopped miserably; but does that prove that big budget films have gone out of vogue? Not at all. These films flopped not because they were star-studded or big-budget ones. They bombed at the box office because they didn’t have the kind of appeal that makes for hits. Some serious flaws in packaging, treatment and storytelling resulted in the films ending up as box office disasters. Films like Thaapaana, Shikkar, Jawan of Vellimala, Bachelors Party, Masters and the like flopped due to such reasons. Moving onto the so-called new breed of films… Agreed some of them did work out very well at the box office. Second Show was a hit and launched Dulquer Salman’s career, but what happened to the star-son’s latest, Theevram? We did like Theevram despite its flaws; we wanted it to be a hit. But going by reports, it has not made a mark.

22 Female Kottayam, Diamond Necklace, Trivandrum Lodge and Ee Adutha Kaalathu succeeded at the box office. But there were sensibly made films that didn’t create ripples. Friday, Ozhimuri, Parudeesa and Outsider represent this class of films. Does that prove that even the so called ‘new

generation films’ (we too perhaps don’t agree to that usage) prove to be hits only if they have some necessary ingredients, some kind of a box office punch, in them?

Now, take a look at some other films that did really well. Mayamohini, Mallu Singh, Ordinary, Grandmaster, Thattathin Marayath – where would we place these films?

Mayamohini proved to be a real phenomenon at the box office, but watch the film and try to find out why it was a hit and what it proves, as regards trends and changes. Does it portray the ‘changing face of Malayalam cinema’? Doesn’t Grandmaster prove that a well-made thriller with a bankable superstar would still make it at the box office? Honestly, we just don’t know. Thattathin Marayath too could leave critics and analysts confused. The signals are positive, and very much so. The number of films made has gone up, there could emerge a new trend wherein stars and the new kind of making would go hand in hand and cinema would have a commercial appeal as well as artistic flavour. 2013 could be a new beginning of sorts.

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