Kollywood Moments

Shankar’s ‘Rettaisuzhi’ in trouble!

2009-12-11T14:23:00.000-08:00

Debutant director Thamira is bringing together the veterans of Tamil cinema K Balachandar and Bharathiraja in the lead roles for ‘Rettaisuzhi’. This Shankar’s S Pictures production is now in a fix as the title of the film is claimed to be owned by Creative Force Media Pvt. Ltd.

Creative Force Media has filed a complaint against S Pictures in the Producers’ Council that the name registration is valid until January 2010.

Sources in the know have confirmed that both the parties are arriving at talks on mutual consent. Hopefully the problem is expected to calm down soon and enable S Pictures to use the name without much disagreement.

‘Rettaisuzhi’ interestingly has Malayalam actors Sreenivasan, Manobala while Ilavarasu, Karunas are also in the cast. Karthik Raja scores the music for this family entertainer.

Rajini enjoys Amitabh’s childhood!

2009-12-11T14:06:00.000-08:00

Our Superstar is a person who sees new releases regularly and appreciates the makers and actors of the film. The latest movie he has seen is Amitabh Bachchan’s ‘Paa’ in which the actor acts as a 13 year old child affected with progeria. ‘Paa’ directed by Balki has Abhishek Bachchan doing the role of Amitabh’s dad.

Rajinikanth along with his wife and two daughters Aishwarya and Soundarya were at the Four Frames Preview Theatre on Wednesday (Dec 9) evening for a special screening of ‘Paa’. After the screening, Superstar had called Big B and congratulated him for his child performance.

Once Amitabh recollected his friendship with Superstar and said, “Rajini is a great man. Whenever my films get released down South, he comes to Mumbai and invites me for a special show. When I wanted to send him a special copy of my ‘Black’, he called me and congratulated me for my work. I hope I will send the special copy of ‘Paa’ before he sees by himself.”

Looks like Big-B missed this time too… Our Superstar is never late in appreciating talents!

‘Mandhira Punnagai’ shifts base!

2009-12-11T14:05:00.000-08:00

Karu Palaniappan’s upcoming project ‘Mandhira Punnagai’ has shifted its base from Seventh Channel’s banner to Indhira Films. The director’s ‘Sadhurangam’ that has Srikanth and Sonia Agarwal in the lead did not hit the floor for some unknown reason. But, sources who saw a few rushes of the film still keep saying that if the film had released it must have been the turning point for the director and Srikanth.

When we wanted to know why the film is shifting base from Seventh Channel to the new production house, we got to know interesting gossips. ‘Mandhira Punnagai’ is directed by Karu Palaniappan and has him in the lead role as well - looks like the plan of the director taking up the lead role did not favour the production house. When things went out of control and the director did not change his mind, the production house backed from the project, said the sources.

It’s noteworthy that ‘Mandhira Punnagai’ is the script that was made for Dhanush and was titled as ‘Ashoka Mithran’ earlier. This script is now reformed to suit Karu Palaniappan.

Let’s see how this one works at the box-office!

2009-12-09T13:23:00.000-08:00

The State Government awards for best films, best actors and best technicians for the year 2007 and 2008 were handed over to the awardees at a function held at the University of Madras Auditorium in Chennai on December 8th, 2009.

Both the stalwarts of Tamil cinema, Rajinikanth and Kamal Haasan were present to receive the best actor awards for Sivaji (2007) and Dasavatharam (2008), respectively.

The highlight of the event was when Kamal and Rajini handed over the best dialogue writer award to the veteran writer and the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, M Karunanidhi for penning the dialogues in Uliyin Osai.

The other awardees are:

Best actress 2007 – Jyothika

Best actress 2008 – Sneha

Best film 2007 – Sivaji

Best Film 2008 – Dasavatharam

The second prize for best film 2007 – Mozhi

The second prize for best film 2008 – Abhiyum Naanum

The third prize for best film 2008 – Santhosh Subramaniam

Special prize (Best Film), 2007 – Periyar

Special prize (Best actor), 2007 – Sathyaraj

Best comedian, 2007 – Vivek

Best director, 2007 – Thangar Bachan

Best Music director, 2007 – Vidyasgar

Best lyricist, 2007 – Vairamuthu

Special prize (Best actor), 2008 – Suriya

Best comedian, 2008 – Vadivelu

Best Music director, 2008 – Ilayaraja

Best lyricist, 2008 – Vaali

Press in Tamil cinema

2009-12-09T13:18:00.000-08:00

The trend of press persons turning to film industry has been on the rise lately. Ameer’s Yogi had Devaraj, a reporter with the popular daily Dinakaran playing an important role.

Now, we have news that Nellai Bharathi, who is associated with Vannathirai Magazine, has entered the filmdom as a lyricist. He has penned the song Retta Retta Manasu, which is set to tune by Jassi Gift.

Thinachudar reporter Bala Bharathi has also penned lyrics for the dubbed version of a Telugu film, Kumaran Rajini Rasigan.

It is worth mentioning here that media persons Bismi and Andhanan have already turned into producers.

Suriya gets a relief

2009-12-09T13:15:00.000-08:00

The case filed against Suriya and Jyothika to stall the construction work in their land in T Nagar came up for hearing at the High Court of Madras. It is worth mentioning here that an NRI, Ashok, filed a petition claiming that he has a share in the said land and a case pertaining to it has already been filed.

However, Suriya and Jyothika purchased the disputed land and began the construction. The aggrieved petitioner filed a suit to stay the construction until the court decides the issue.

When this issue came up for hearing, the judge ordered that the construction work can go on, but the defendants should adhere to the final decision. The case has been posted for hearing during the second week of January.

Seeman has no ‘Kobam’ for Vijay

2009-12-09T13:07:00.000-08:00

Seeman, a fierce supporter for rehabilitating the internally displaced Sri Lankan Tamils, seems to be lying low these days. While Kollywood rumors suggested that Seeman will direct Vijay in a flick called Kobam, Seeman begs to differ when contacted. As a reply to the Behindwoods correspondent’s question in this regard, Seeman said that he is not in the right mood to direct a movie now.

“I’m only finishing up my earlier agreed projects, since I can’t wriggle out of them now,” he further added hinting that he might take a break from his directorial / acting career.

Lucky Tamannah to team up with Kamal

2009-12-09T13:04:00.000-08:00

It’s official now; it’s not Mysskin but KSR who will direct Kamal in his next project. This brings down the curtain on the very many rumors speculating in the industry. This short-term venture will go on floors in January 2010 and is likely to be released in August 2010. To be produced by Udayanidi Stalin, this as-yet-untitled comedy flick will be Kamal’s next after the critically and commercially successful Unnaipol Oruvan.

We hear that Tamannah is expected to play the lead opposite Kamal. It’s also learnt that the Punjabi lass has already reserved her dates to make room for this Kamal – KSR venture

Yuvan Shankar Raja joins AR Rahman

2009-12-09T13:00:00.000-08:00

It is well known that AR Rahman has a longstanding business deals with Sony BMG and the rights of all his south Indian scores are with this music major. Expanding its business further, Sony has acquired the rights of Theeradha Vilayattu Pillai, which has Vishal playing the lead role. Yuvan Shankar Raja has also entered into a contract with Sony BMG recently. Other biggies that this music company has lapped up are Soundarya Rajinikanth’s Goa and Selvaraghavan’s Aayirathil Oruvan.

Two more films that have joined the long list of audio rights acquisition are the Tamil and Telugu version of Vinnaithandi Varuvaaya and SJ Suryah’s Puli.

Mani Ratnam to launch Karthik’s son!

2009-12-09T12:53:00.000-08:00

Everyone present at the press meet of Arun Vijay’s ‘Maanja Velu’ was at shock. The reason is yesteryear heartthrob Karthik’s dynamic attendance. The actor shocked the press by giving out his number and answered all the questions with that old zing (still young).

“If I get good roles like how I got to work in ‘Maanja Velu’, I will definitely act hence forth,” said the actor to everyone’s delight. One more delightful news from the actor’s mouth was that his son Goutham will be launched by director Mani Ratnam soon.

We got to hear that Mani Ratnam who will be working in a Hindi project right after his ‘Raavan’, will do a Tamil project with Karthik’s son simultaneously. Industry is abuzz that Goutham will be taking a role played by Bollywood’s Ranbir Kapoor in a Hindi film, which will be directed by Mani Ratnam.

‘Aayirathil Oruvan’ trailer launch

2009-12-09T12:50:00.000-08:00

The long pending Selvaraghavan’s ‘Aayirathil Oruvan’ is gonna see the day’s light finally for Pongal. This action adventure that took of by 2007 will be released by January 2010 under great expectations. This one has a strong star cast including Karthi, Andrea, Reema Sen, and Parthiban.

Now the film’s makers have announced about the launch of the film’s trailer. ‘Aayirathil Oruvan’ team has already started works for the trailer launch that is scheduled to happen on December 13th. Plans are on to screen the trailers and songs during the function that is to happen in Sathyam Cinemas.

Vijay's Vettaikaran on December 18th

2009-12-08T15:36:00.000-08:00

Vettaikaran will release on Dec 18th. Film produced by AVM Balasubramaniam and presented by Sun Pictures. Anushka playing the lead role with Vijay in Vettaikaran. Sun pictures getting ready to start the promotional campaigns.Vettaikaran is Vijay’s 49th film.

Dr.ABJ Kalam in a movie

2009-12-08T15:33:00.000-08:00

Former President APJ Kalam making a special appearance in the upcoming movie "I am Kalam". The film is about a young boy who gets inspired by Kalam's speech. Gulshan Grover is director of the movie. "i am Kalam" is a Indo-French collaboration.

More films next year

2009-12-08T15:32:00.001-08:00

The Producers’ Council has disclosed that there has been a steep rise in the number of producers in the recent years. The reason attributed to the rise in producers is the decrease in production costs due to digital filming and tax sops offered by the state government.

Likewise, the number of films released this year has also gone up. Over 100 films have hit the marquee and by the end of 2009, about 125 films would have been released. This figure is expected to go up next year, statisticians aver.

Yogi’s villain steps into producer’s shoes

2009-12-08T15:29:00.000-08:00

Ghazhali, who played the fierce villain in Yogi, is turning into a producer with his new venture. The new project, slated to kick off soon, will have the director-turned-actor Tarun Gopi playing the lead. Saranya Mohan of Vennila Kabadi Kuzhu and Eeram will play his love interest.

Directed by Ibrahim, the as-yet-untitled venture will be a soft romantic flick according to Ghazhali. Ghazhali is one of the prominent members of the political party Pattali Makkal Katchi.

Dhanush to retain his lucky heroine

2009-12-08T15:22:00.000-08:00

Looks like Tamannah’s career in Tamil is soaring after the success of Ayan. Not only has she just finished shooting for the Karthi starrer Payya, she also has a couple of promising films - Sura and Thillalangadi, opposite Vijay and Ravi respectively, the shoots of which are underway.

If the industry buzz is to be believed, she will be paired opposite Dhanush for his next film directed by Hari. That makes it her second film with Dhanush after Padikkadavan. Dhanush is busy with Aadugalam and the remake of the Telugu film Ready and with Hari fast wrapping up the Suriya starrer Singam, the new project will go on floors soon.

Vivek is not the only hero

2009-12-08T15:19:00.000-08:00

The director of Magane En Marumagane, TP Gajendran said that both Vivek and Mithun are heroes in the film. He revealed that while Vivek plays the son-in-law, Mithun is the son. Gajendran, who was an assistant to noted director Visu, says that Magane En Marumagane is not just a full length comedy flick sans any logic but will suit the tastes of audiences looking for family-oriented subjects.

He added that Visu, his mentor, is known for making films that have attracted the family audience and he also followed the same path to give films like Veedu Manaivi Makkal. With Magane En Marumagane he intends to bring back the golden era of family-oriented subject

Jayam Ravi urges to donate blood

2009-12-08T15:13:00.001-08:00

A club comprising of thousand medical students to donate blood was inaugurated at the Madras Medical College recently. The chief guest at the function was film star Jayam Ravi. The actor lauded the efforts of the students in starting a blood donation club and urged all colleges in Tamil Nadu to begin such clubs.

He added that donating blood is a noble cause and it could save a life. According to the star, donating blood is akin to a mother giving birth to a child. To donate blood one need not be related but would suffice if the group matches, he said.

Aruvadai gets a new title

2009-12-08T15:09:00.000-08:00

Aruvadai, the big budget film starring mega star Mammootty and action king Arjun commenced some time back and the film is nearing completion now. Sneha has shed her homely image and has sported very trendy costumes in the film. As per the latest news, the title of the film has been changed to Vande Matharam. But as the title is not a Tamil one, whether this film would enjoy the entertainment tax concession of the government is yet to been seen. Aruvadai/Vande Matharam is directed by T Aravind and produced by Henry of Bharathi Kannamma fame, will be a January 2010 release.

Renigunta team on a different canvas

2009-12-08T15:02:00.000-08:00

Renigunta’s director Panneerselvam is already gearing up for his next film. Speaking on his next venture, he said that this film would be quite opposite to that of Renigunta. Elaborating further, the director said that it would be a romantic flick.

He added that he intends to use the same team that worked with him for Renigunta. And that means this yet-to-be-named film will once again have Johnny playing the lead role. Panneerselvam says that this film is inspired by his friend’s real life love story.

Rajini- Humble at heights!

2009-12-05T14:54:00.000-08:00

We must have heard a lot of stories about the good hearted and down to earth nature of our Superstar. Now another new update about his patience and humble heart...

We all know that Shankar's ‘Endhiran’ shoot was going on in Chennai at many places, once it happened even on the famous Kathipara Bridge. The director wrapped-up the shots that are supposed to be taken with Rajini earlier but requested the actor to stay for some more time to take few close-up shots of his hands.

Sources said that the director finished off other close-up shots of shoulders and hip with dupes. He requested the Superstar to wait until he finishes other shots. Whatta patient and simple man is our Superstar! He has stayed on and completed the shots and gave full cooperation to the team, they say.

Rajini is still ruling the hearts of millions, mainly for his simplicity and sweetness to everyone alike!

Amitabh Bachchan in Chennai for Illayaraja

2009-12-05T14:50:00.000-08:00

Bollywood welcomed Amitabh Bachchan’s ‘Paa’ with opened hands. The film, which is based on a child affected with progeria, released worldwide yesterday.

‘Paa’ is directed by Balki and has Big B playing the role of the child, with Abhishek Bachchan and Vidya Balan as his parents. The film’s music is done by our Isaignani Illayaraja and cinematography by PC Sreeram. No doubt the film’s music became successful there! And now it seems Amitabh Bachchan will be coming down to the city to thank the talented composer.

The music maestro was not able to attend the premier on Thursday in Mumbai. And so the legendary actor is said to have organised a special screening of ‘Paa’ for Raja sir in Sathyam Cinemas today. The cinema hall is said to be booked by Bachchan. “Amitji will sit with Raja sir, Balki, PC Sriram and other celebrities from Kollywood and watch ‘Paa’, after that he will fly back to Mumbai,” shared the sources.