Kollywood diary [Archive] - SkyscraperCity

Arul Murugan

January 19th, 2010, 05:28 AM

Ayirathil Oruvan movie questions!

சினிமாவை விட்டே போயிடுறேன்... செல்வராகவனின் சீரிய

ஒரு வார தாடியில் வந்திருந்தார் செல்வராகவன். உறக்கம் கலையாத முகம். வெற்றிப்படம்னு சொல்றீங்க. அந்த சந்தோஷம் உங்க முகத்தில் இல்லையே? கேள்வி ஒன்று பறந்து வந்தது செல்வராகவனை பார்த்து.

நான் எப்பங்க பிரஷ்ஷா இருந்திருக்கேன், இப்போ இருப்பதற்கு? சந்தோஷமோ, கவலையோ, என் முகம் இப்படிதான் இருக்கும். பல வருஷமா இப்படியேதான் இருக்கேன் என்ற செல்வா, தனது ஆதங்கத்தை அலட்டிக் கொள்ளாமல் கொட்ட துவங்கினார்.

தமிழ்சினிமாவில் ஒரு புது முயற்சி பண்ணியிருக்கேன். நீங்கள்ளாம் சப்போர்ட்டா இருக்கணும். அதிலே ஆயிரம் குறைகளை கண்டு பிடிச்சா எப்படி? ஒரு தமிழனின் முயற்சிக்கு இன்னொரு தமிழனா இருந்து என்கரேஜ் பண்ணணும். அவதார் மாதிரி படங்கள் வந்தால் அதுல லாஜிக் மிஸ்டேக் உங்களுக்கு தெரிய மாட்டேங்குது. ஆனால் அதே மாதிரி பிரமாண்டமா ஒரு படத்தை எடுக்கணும்னு நான் முன்வரும்போது ஆயிரம் லாஜிக் பார்க்கிறீங்க என்றார் செல்வா.

இதை ஆங்கில படம் ஒன்றின் தழுவல் என்கிறார்களே? இடையில் குறுக்கிட்டார் இன்னொரு நிருபர்.

அது எந்த படம்னு எங்கிட்ட காட்டுங்க. அப்படி காட்டிட்டீங்கன்னா நான் இந்த சினிமாவை விட்டே போயிடுறேன். எங்களுக்கு மூளை இல்லேன்னாதானே அதையெல்லாம் பார்த்து எடுக்கணும்? நீங்க சொல்றீங்களே, அதைவிட பிரமாதமா நம்மால் எடுக்க முடியும் என்று சவால் விட்டார் செல்வராகவன்.

சோழ அரசர்கள் பற்றியும், சரித்திர பிழைகள் பற்றியும் கேட்கப்பட்ட பல்வேறு கேள்விகளுக்கு பதிலளித்த செல்வா, அப்படி ஒரு அரசனே இல்லை. இது கற்பனை பாத்திரம்தான் என்றார் இறுதியாக! க்ளைமாக்சில் வரும் கடைசி பதினைந்து நிமிட காட்சிகள் ஈழ போராட்டத்தை நினைவுபடுத்துகிறதே என்ற இன்னொரு கேள்விக்கு, அந்த போர்ஷனை நான் ரொம்ப முன்னாடியே எடுத்திட்டேன். ஈழ பிரச்சனைக்கும் அதுக்கும் சம்பந்தமே இல்லை என்றார் தெளிவாக

http://tamilcinema.com/CINENEWS/Hotnews/2010/January/180110a.asp

rajii

January 19th, 2010, 04:00 PM

^^ hi guys how u feel about this aiyarathil oruvan movie?

Arul Murugan

January 20th, 2010, 03:28 AM

^^

Mixed review, I have not seen the movie. But review tells it is a bold try in tamil kind of movie.

Some reviews tells like the great Chola kings were shown as barbarians. Though the movie carries the warning like "all the characters are not true and imagination", how imagination chola kings can be shown like barbarians when the real chola kings had excellent navy, army, arts, architecture etc., 1000 years before.

gvijayan

January 20th, 2010, 04:05 AM

^^ The chola characters shown in the movie are said to be living in a remote place in Andaman & Nicobar islands. Their generation is living there for a very long time after the demise of the original Cholas. I am not sure if the reason for them to have gone to such a far place was described in detail in the movie (it might have been explained in some ancient Tamil dialogue which I could not have understood, but not sure - and also the version I saw did not have the Tamil to Tamil sub-titles ).

calculus_ask

January 20th, 2010, 10:00 AM

me too cant understand.. comments like " Tamila Pesu".. but good story.. might be eye opener for movies to come..

i like natarajar's shadow, desert concept, snake part in first half.. to understand second part i need to go to school again :cheers:

Fusionist

January 22nd, 2010, 10:55 PM

about the film, yes its based on fantasy Chola kings, but which century Cholas ?

btw this is perhaps the only Tamil king/chieftain who was ever photographed and you can see how they looked in 1858... about 150 years ago.

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/3/3e/Todiman_Raja_in_his_Durbar%2C_Pudukkottai%2C_1858.jpg

Arul Murugan

January 23rd, 2010, 10:54 AM

^^

That looks like Delhi Durbar.

Fusionist

January 23rd, 2010, 07:17 PM

^^

That looks like Delhi Durbar.

the irony ! :|

Itws actually the throne of Raja Thondaiman of Pudukkotai which remained as a princely state during the Colonial Rule.

Here is a better picture..

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/ta/f/f6/Thondaiman.jpg

source : http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/ta/f/f6/Thondaiman.jpg

ChennaiIndian

January 23rd, 2010, 09:59 PM

^^ hi guys how u feel about this aiyarathil oruvan movie?

I have seen the movie and would say that its a new attempt in Tamil cinema but for people who have seen Hollywood movies like Indian Jones, this might bring back those memories.

Chola kings were great and at the time of the Raja Raja Cholan, they were at the height of their power with their empire stretching far into South East Asia including the present day Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, Vietnam and Cambodia :cheers:. This explains the great Cambodian temples having Dravidian architecture. It also explains how we have a substantial Tamil population in those parts of the world although some would argue thats not the reason :). Finally, the Chola dynasty came to an end in 1279 CE when the Pandya rulers routed them. The Cholas were gone for good.:cry:

The movie picks up with this timeline correctly and then goes into a fantasy world. The 1st half is racy compared to the 2nd half (which is also lengthy) :sleepy:. The classical Tamil dialogues with the dialects and slangs of the those times are kinda difficult to understand but you will get it based on the context of the scenes :). For some time in the movie, you will not realize whats happening with some random scenes and songs :nuts:. I seriously feel that Tamil movies should improve the quality of their graphics and animation pieces for the money that they spend on production costs. Even Dasavatharam graphics was poor by many standards...amateurish. :bash:

By the way, Karthi has been ridiculed a lot :lol: ...I wish Vijay had been there :lol:

It is very sad that they have portrayed the Cholas as barbarians especially involved in human sacrifice and perceived cannibalism (although they don't show this explicitly in the movie) :ohno:. This can be excused based on the fact that this is just an imagination and anyone who has less access to basic resources (like those constrained Cholas who go into hiding in a distant land) will engage in such acts to survive.

slakhs

January 24th, 2010, 03:12 AM

^^I agree with the comments above. Saw this first day. Second half was dragging too much, some of the supposed serious scenes, people were openly laughing, logic went missing (even for a fantasy film) as it was contradicting not just common sense but the films own earlier premises. If you think they insulted Cholas, I dont know what to say of Selva's take on Pandyas and Indian Army. He couldnt build up any sympathy for Chola's plight but then suddenly expects that from the audience. Looked like he wanted to stage spectacular scenes / fights and then tried to string together a story around it. Even in such a different genre, Selva managed to include his own perversions in terms of dialogues / scenes which were not required to carry the story forward at all but just for shock / titillation.

End of the day even though it was a different experience for a Tamil movie, it was not a satisfying movie. I couldnt overhear any single positive comment from the audience in the second half or at the end even as the first half was well appreciated.

Finally, please dont watch it with family especially young kids, this is not a normal A rated Tamil movie.

Arul Murugan

January 24th, 2010, 03:24 AM

the irony ! :|

Itws actually the throne of Raja Thondaiman of Pudukkotai which remained as a princely state during the Colonial Rule.

Here is a better picture..

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/ta/f/f6/Thondaiman.jpg

source : http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/ta/f/f6/Thondaiman.jpg

Oh, looks like a typical dress outsourced from Persia. See how the cholas were dressed for the hot climate in Tamilnadu. Mural of rajarajan shows he was wearing some vesti stuff and nothing in the top.

http://www.indianetzone.com/photos_gallery/17/raja-raja-cholan_3040.jpg

Shivaji in Rajaraja cholan movie

http://www.sirkali.org/cholan.jpg

mural in thanjavur

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/f/fd/Rajaraja_mural.jpg

Marathaman

January 24th, 2010, 03:26 AM

That Raja is just the ruler of a petty state, under the thumb of the British. Like his peers in North India, I won't be surprised if he was a decadent and ultimately powerless figure who spent his money on imported cars and Italian chandeliers.

Fusionist

January 24th, 2010, 04:40 PM

Oh, looks like a typical dress outsourced from Persia. See how the cholas were dressed for the hot climate in Tamilnadu. Mural of rajarajan shows he was wearing some vesti stuff and nothing in the top.

http://www.indianetzone.com/photos_gallery/17/raja-raja-cholan_3040.jpg

Shivaji in Rajaraja cholan movie

http://www.sirkali.org/cholan.jpg

mural in thanjavur

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/f/fd/Rajaraja_mural.jpg

yes something like the mural would be more accurate. My point was to show that they would inevitably look tribal in our present day eyes. They are certainly not as refined as they were made to look in films like Rajarajacholan or Veerapandiya Kattabomman etc.

dr_thapalathy

January 25th, 2010, 02:00 AM

Aayirathil Oruvan movie first half was a copy from the Hollywood movie Mekkena's gold released in the 1960s. No one mentioned it.

But first half is nice. But Second half could have been taken well and a complete end to the movie must have been given. Then it would be nice.

This movie shows Cholas as under dogs, which is really not true.

dr_thapalathy

January 25th, 2010, 02:02 AM

Please dont allow posting of Actors/Actress pics in this forum. This forum is for discussion about Tamil Movies. Moderator, please delete the actress pics in this thread or please move them to the thread dedicated to them.

Also, please dont post the same pic as in the website. If you get something new and different, post that.

dr_thapalathy

January 25th, 2010, 02:05 AM

Ya, the AO movie is not watchable and not a normal A rated TAMIL MOVIE as second half shows scenes of nude exposion of some unwanted parts.

Leo_r

January 25th, 2010, 09:24 AM

One should not relate the past History with the perceptions one may tend acquire seeing the present. There were many Chola periods. None recorded their history. Sangam Cholas may be different from the later cholas (invading natives fron Central India) and the latest around 9th century may entirely be different sect of Cholas. Also most of the Pallavan kingdom natives, defeated and deprived of a lively hood ,driven down by invading armies from the Western regions, took shelter in Chola kingdom.

Most of the people of that time should have been very primitive,though intelligent enough to hunt,cultivate,trade and indulge in warfare and some could have been very poetic in their imagination.

"Kal thontra kalathukku mun thontriya Tamil"..a frequently used statement should make one understand that the original Tamils should be unsophisticated, very basic, martial and may belong to the Austroloid gene pool. Being nude should have been very normal..

slakhs

January 25th, 2010, 10:40 AM

^^

Not knowing enough about them does not give anyone rights to depict anything as they please and especially that goes against whatever else we may about them (the cholas). Theese were supposed to be post 13th century Chola descendants. We all know the pinnacle of cultural, civilisational and martial heights Chola empire reached in 9-11th centuries. They could lay a curse on invading Pandyas, could paint murals depicting future but could not even go out of the cave to see what is around them and make a living. They have nothing to eat but still enjoy a gladiator type violent fight to death. What kind of logic is this?

ceeznic pirate

January 25th, 2010, 12:27 PM

^^ hi guys how u feel about this aiyarathil oruvan movie?

Thousands of logic/graphic flaws were there in the film. But its really a brave effort by Selva. When compared to the logic full, flaw-less titles like vettaikaran, aadhavan running around, AO deserves thousand more applause..
There are many good things in the film - music, graphics(plz dnt compare to avatar:bash:), songs, editting, picturisation, etc...

stalward

January 26th, 2010, 06:29 PM

I Liked the way the movie has been pictured...there was little disoppointment in editing side..goodeffort by selva..he have made audience like me to come to theatre to see tamil movie..I hate same romance or other masala ,remake junks..with exposure to them media have also become remake/masala adict.instead of giving kudos they wer criticizing the AO as flop..and hollywood copy.why cant they recongnise our fellow people and give them much needed boost.so lot other will try to make movies of different theme.see bollywood it has become masala wood .only there is movies of masala and stories happening,love ,illict relationship were in common..Media should think...:bash:

saysenthil

January 27th, 2010, 01:03 PM

I guess we had enough discussions reg AO.... its time to go to move on......to the next movie ---> One of the most expected & anitcipated movie of this year in tamil cinema. Can anyone guess which film i am talking about. Its none other than "Tamilpadam". Forumers, i am interested in knowing your opinion about this genre. Its again totally different of sorts. I am so eager to see that film. Wat about you?

Brand coimbatore

January 28th, 2010, 12:50 PM

Evem im waiting for tamilpadam, the song oh maha ziya is a good one with all meaning less words came in tamil songs so far.. like miya miya, naka muka,mukala, lalakku,etc..., was funny!

Arul Murugan

January 29th, 2010, 02:09 PM

It's rush hour in Kollywood

SREEDHAR PILLAI , TNN, 29 January 2010, 12:00am IST

It is rush hour in Kollywood! 35 Tamil films, big and small, are scheduled to release on five Fridays between today and February 26

The Tamil film industry has not witnessed such a rush of releases. There are no theatres available in Tamil Nadu to accommodate such a large number of releases. And those films which are getting released are being pushed out after only a week by the ones waiting in the queue! தடிக்கி விழுந்தா கோவில் மாதிரி, தடிக்கி விழுந்தா தியேட்டர் இருக்குற தமிழக நகரங்களுகா இந்த நிலைமை (என்ன கொடுமை சரவணன் இது):lol::lol:

Says Abirami Ramanathan, “Never before have so many films been lined up for release in a month’s time. There is a mad rush to release the films before March and I would say it is mass suicide as too many films at the same time will kill the market.” Ramanathan says none of the films, even the biggies, are likely to have long runs, and theatres will have to cut down the number of shows for a new release, which will eat into their profits.
Take for example the Pongal release Aayirathil Oruvan, which got a fantastic opening but fell as negative talk affected collections. However, after a few controversial scenes were deleted and the length of the film was reduced, it picked up very well, especially in Chennai city, NSC and Coimbatore areas. And today, with five new films releasing, the number of shows of AO has been reduced to accommodate them. In some small centres, due to acute theatre shortage, it may even be discontinued.

“The splurge in releases is expected to have a chain effect, which will in one way or other affect all releases during the period, including big budget films, which will not be allowed to settle down. The demand for theatres is so huge that in smaller centres, theatre owners are planning to screen four different films on a single screen,” says a leading film mediator and theatre booking agent. Other language films are also finding it difficult to get theatres in Tamil Nadu, with the biggie My Name is Khan not getting many screens outside Chennai.

Everybody wants to release their films before the examination season starts in March. Added to that, IPL 2010 will start on March 12 and end on April 25, and during this period there won’t be any major releases.

From May 1, the summer biggies like Vijay’s Sura, Suriya’s Singam and Jayam Ravi’s Thilalangadi are due for release. So, for many producers, it is now or never.

Ready for Release
Here are a few films due to release in the next one month — Goa, Tamizh Padam, Jaggubhai, Kadhai, Dhairiyam, Asal, Paiyya, Irumbu Kottai Murattu Singam, Vinnaithaandi Varuvaayaa, Theeratha Vilayattu Pillai, Aval Peyar Tamilarasi, Magane En Marumagane, Thambikku Intha Ooru, Appavi, Kacheri Aarambam, Yaathu Mahi, Mundhinam Paartheney

TOI (http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/regional/news-interviews/Its-rush-hour-in-Kollywood/articleshow/5509356.cms)

satishanu

January 29th, 2010, 02:15 PM

Any idea how big(turnover/annum) would be the entertainment/media (small screen/big screen) industry in TN.
My guess would be around 2000 crores.

Arul Murugan

January 30th, 2010, 03:14 PM

^^

Investment is 510 crores last year in movies alone.

While over Rs 510 crore was invested in films, the profit has been just about 30 per cent,"[/B] Mr R.
Ramanujam, Tamil film industry trade expert, told this newspaper.

http://www.dc-epaper.com/DC/DCC/2009/12/29/ArticleHtmls/29_12_2009_002_007.shtml?Mode=0

chennaidesi

January 30th, 2010, 04:38 PM

I think Hindi around 2000 crores and telugu should be around 750 crores.

No idea about small screens, I think the investment should be around 500 crores.

ChennaiIndian

January 30th, 2010, 06:14 PM

It's rush hour in Kollywood

...

From May 1, the summer biggies like Vijay’s Sura, Suriya’s Singam and Jayam Ravi’s Thilalangadi are due for release. So, for many producers, it is now or never.

...
TOI (http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/regional/news-interviews/Its-rush-hour-in-Kollywood/articleshow/5509356.cms)

The name of the movies mentioned above clearly say that they will be of Vijay genre and will waste everyone's time :wallbash: Instead they can give up the theaters for other movies. :lol:

ceeznic pirate

January 31st, 2010, 10:31 AM

http://movies.indiatimes.com/reviews/regional/telugu/Thamizh-Padam-Movie-Review/articleshow/5517527.cms

satishanu

February 2nd, 2010, 04:07 AM

http://beta.thehindu.com/multimedia/dynamic/00029/INDIA_GRAMMYS__29021f.jpg

Music composer A.R. Rahman gave his fans, admirers and well-wishers yet another reason to celebrate on Monday by winning two Grammy awards.

Though the Mozart of Madras has received some of the most coveted awards, the Grammy is, indeed, special for a musician.

Playback singer S.P. Balasubramaniam felt Rahman truly deserved the honour. “He has already received the pinnacle of awards, but he will continue receiving every coveted award in the field of music.”

Observing that Rahman’s victory was not something that came overnight, he said: “I’ve known him from when he was a child. He is a completely self-made musician who has put in tremendous hard work. Importantly, he is a very good human being.” “He has certainly put Dr. Subbarayan Nagar on the world map of music.”

Rage since its launch

“It is quite fitting that a musical genius like him has won the Grammy awards,” said director Gautam Menon. The music of his impending film Vinnaithaandi Varuvaaya, scored by Rahman, has been a rage since its launch. “It is astounding to see how the awards come through. Twenty years ago, the Indian film industry was nowhere near Hollywood. Now the world’s eyes are set on Indian films and film music, thanks to Rahman,” he said, adding that more awards were lined up for his musical innovations. Working with Rahman is a thing of pride for drummer Sivamani. “Grammy is the best thing a musician can ever get. It is such a proud moment for all of us.” Extolling Rahman’s compositions, Sivamani said the genius had been giving some extraordinary numbers for long and only now recognitions had begun to come his way.

“Now that the world has recognised his talent, there is no stopping him.”

Family overjoyed

Rahman’s family in Chennai is also visibly overjoyed. His sister Rahane heard the news from her mother who is with Rahman.

“She called me to break the good news and it was great to know he won not one, but two awards. He has won a series of awards, but the Grammy is a musician’s dream! I am extremely happy for him. God has blessed him.”

While Rahane felt this would open the doors for him further, she hoped he would come up with more video albums. “That would be really nice.”

Of course, Rahman in his inimitable style, said: “This is insane…I never even dreamt about winning all these awards. I once again want to thank the Almighty.” He also thanked his colleagues, associates and family.

Source: http://beta.thehindu.com/news/states/tamil-nadu/article98869.ece?homepage=true

ChennaiIndian

February 4th, 2010, 06:04 AM

ChennaiIndian

February 4th, 2010, 06:06 AM

http://www.cinesouth.com/specials/specials/tamilcinema-75.shtml

This one is very nice compilation of facts and news -
http://tamilelibrary.org/teliwp/archives/19 :cheers:

Leo_r

February 4th, 2010, 10:03 AM

People interested in Carnatic music and want to know its usage in Tamil movie music, can go through this.

http://www.scribd.com/doc/8693253/Carnatic-Ragas-in-Ilayaraja-Films

Credits to the author for a great work on this! :applause:

I am very curious to know why present day youngsters prefer what they call 'kuthu paattu'. Personaly, I am put off by those huge no. of guys wearing lungi exposing underwares, dancing wildly to these kuthu songs. This trend has taken over the film industry over the last 5-10 years.

I enjoy only those lilting melodies of the 70s,80s,and 90s..

shekar

February 5th, 2010, 05:36 AM

"kuttu pattu" it all started from the great film music composer "then isai thendral":lol: Deva

Sampathkumar

February 5th, 2010, 05:48 AM

"kuttu pattu" it all started from the great film music composer "then isai thendral":lol: Deva

And those lungi, Lifted saree, sweepers and all those ugly vulgar dance movements introduced by Prabhudeva and his brothers. Until then it was not that popular and nobody liked that.
These three monkey only introduced that.
:bash:

Arul Murugan

February 5th, 2010, 05:58 AM

I am very curious to know why present day youngsters prefer what they call 'kuthu paattu'. Personaly, I am put off by those huge no. of guys wearing lungi exposing underwares, dancing wildly to these kuthu songs. This trend has taken over the film industry over the last 5-10 years.

I enjoy only those lilting melodies of the 70s,80s,and 90s..

Not really they prefer the lungi lifting songs. Mainly youngsters prefer the AR, Yuvan, Harris Jayaraj songs (present generation) and very very less kuthu songs are composed by these music directors. But yes even Raja's 30years golden period 70-90's melodies still find place among present youngsters, and AR's 1990-2000 were best, 2000-2010 has not given best songs from him. There are very good Kuthu or Gana songs and all the songs are not bad either.

ChennaiIndian

February 20th, 2010, 05:23 AM

http://www.deccanchronicle.com/chennai/ipl-throws-googly-kollywood-558

Feb. 18: The Tamil film industry is divided over screening the Indian Premier League 3 matches live in cinemas.
The powerful Tamil film producers’ council and several influential film distributors’ associations are up in arms against the screening of cricket matches in theatres saying that this would affect the collections of Tamil films.
Owners of cinema theatres are also in two minds.
“Our film industry is already going through a tough phase,” said Mr Kalaipuli G. Segaran, president of the Chennai-Chengalpattu-Thiruvallur Film Distributors’ Association. “We are against screening of IPL 3 matches in theatres.”
Kollywood fears that at least eight big budget movies and almost an equal number of small budget movies will be badly hit if IPL 3 matches go live at the cinemas.
“Cinema halls are meant for exhibiting films,” said Mr Ramanarayanan, president of the Tamil Film Producers’ Council, who also has reservations on the IPL idea. “There are several film releases slated for March and April.”
However, Mr M. Annamalai, president of the Tamil Nadu Cinema Theatre Owners’ Association, is of a different view. “If people like cricket, what is wrong in showing it in cinemas?” he asked. “Theatres are for commercial activity. If IPL 3 matches bring good money, we are not averse to screening them.”
UFO Moviez, which has rights to screen matches live at theatres, is hopeful of settling the row.
“We are looking at just about 200 out of over 1,200 screens across the state,’ said Usman Faheed, MD of the regional partner of UFO. “There is a minimum guarantee that even a small theatre can make a profit of Rs 1 lakh.”

ceeznic pirate

February 20th, 2010, 07:00 AM

kannan infratech

February 20th, 2010, 09:26 AM

Guys, anyone saw the film "Porkalam"?. Though the screenplay was not good, i guess the cameraman(Saroj Kumar) deserves an oscar or atleast a national award. Never seen anything like this even in Hollywood :shocked: . Was really happy to see films of different genre in Kollywood. AO, porkalam, Tamil Padam, Irumbu Kottai Murattu Singam,...

Just Curious.

There was a movie PORKALAM ( Golden Era)
Now there is a movie PORKALAM ( Battle Field).

Spelling Tamil Words in English need some extra inputs.

ceeznic pirate

February 20th, 2010, 10:56 AM

^^

Yes.. Should have been Porkaalam and Poarkazham. :|

georgenadar

February 21st, 2010, 05:14 AM

அஜீத்குமார் விவகாரத்தை தேவையின்றி பெரிதாக்கியதோடு, ரஜினி, அஜீத் ஆகிய முதல் நிலை நட்சத்திரங்களை வாய்க்கு வந்தபடி பேசும் ஜாகுவார் தங்கத்தையும் விசி குகநாதன் போன்றவர்களையும் கண்டிக்கத் துப்பில்லாத நடிகர் சங்கம், அஜீத்தை நிபந்தனையற்ற வருத்தம் தெரிவிக்க வற்புறுத்துகிறது… எதற்கு.. நியாயத்தைப் பேசியதற்கு. கூடவே ரஜினிக்கு கண்டனம் தெரிவித்துள்ளது… எதற்கு… நியாயத்தை ஆதரித்ததற்கு!

அட கொடுமைக்கார கோமாளிகளே…

முதல்வர் விழாவில் அஜீத் பேசியது எதேச்சையானது. நியாயமானது என பல தமிழ் நடிகர்கள் பாராட்டினர். குறிப்பாக ரஜினி அங்கேயே எழுந்து நின்று கைதட்டிப் பாராட்டினார். அதன் பின்னர் நேற்று முதல்வரைச் சந்தித்துவிட்ட வந்த பிறகும் அஜீத்துக்கு தனது முழு ஆதரவு உண்டு என்று தன் கருத்தில் உறுதியாய் நின்றார்.

ஆனால் ஜாகுவார் தங்கம் என்பவர் தாறுமாறாக திட்டி பத்திரிகைகளுக்கு பேட்டி அளித்த வண்ணம் உள்ளார். மேலிடத்துக்கு மிகவும் வேண்டப்பட்டவர் இவர் என்றும், மிகப்பெரிய பத்திரிகை முதலாளியின் மெய்க்காப்பாளரைப் போன்றவர் இந்த தங்கம் என்பதாலும், அவர் மீது நடவடிக்கை எடுக்காமல், அவர் சொல்வதற்கெல்லாம் தலையை ஆட்டுகிறார்கள் போலீசாரும் சில பத்திரிகையாளர்களும் என்கிறார்கள்.

சாதிக்காரர்களை தூண்டி சண்டைக்கு கால் பிறாண்டும் இந்த ‘ஜாதிக்கார’ தங்கம் நேற்று இரவு நடந்த பிரஸ் மீட்டில் கூறியது இது:

“நான் வீட்டில் இல்லாத நேரத்தில் ரஜினிகாந்த் மற்றும் அஜீத்குமார் ரசிகர்கள் என் வீடு மீது கல் வீசி தாக்கியுள்ளனர். வீடு புகுந்து என் மனைவியை தாக்கியிருக்கிறார்கள். இதனால் என் மனைவிக்கு கையில் காயம் ஏற்பட்டுள்ளது.

இனிமேலும் இதை நான் வேடிக்கை பார்க்க மாட்டேன். நான் என்னுடைய சமுதாயத்துடனும், தமிழ் அமைப்புடனும் சேர்ந்து இந்த பிரச்சினையை எதிர்கொள்வேன். எனக்கு தமிழ் அமைப்புகள் ஆதரவு தர வேண்டும். அஜீத் மற்றும் ரஜினிகாந்த் தமிழ் இன துரோகிகள். அவர்களை தமிழ்நாட்டை விட்டே துரத்த வேண்டும். அதுவரைக்கும் நான் ஓய மாட்டேன். தமிழர்கள் அவர்களை அடையாளம் கண்டு கொள்ள வேண்டும். அஜீத்குமார் ஒரு மலையாளி. அவருக்கு தமிழ் மக்களை பற்றி என்ன தெரியும்?”

-இந்தப் பேச்சை யாராக இருந்தாலும் நியாயமாக கண்டித்திருக்க வேண்டும். அதிலும் நடிகர் சங்கம் கட்டாயம் கண்டித்திருக்க வேண்டும். ஆனால் இந்த நபருக்காக அஜீத்துக்கு நோட்டீஸ் அனுப்பியுள்ளது நடிகர் சங்கம்.
07:02 (2½ hours ago)
Ramesh.R
ஜாகுவார் தங்கம் என்பவர் நடிகர் சங்க உறுப்பினராம். அவர் வீட்டை அஜீத் தாக்கிவிட்டதாக புகார் தந்துள்ளாராம். அதனால் அஜீத்துக்கு நோட்டீஸ் அனுப்பி விளக்கம் கேட்கிறதாம்…

ஜாகுவார் தங்கம் என்பவர் அஜீத்தை விட பெரிய, பரபரப்பான நடிகர் பாருங்கள்! அப்படியானால் நடிகர் சங்கத்தின் முக்கிய, ஆயுள்கால உறுப்பினர்களான ரஜினி, அஜீத் இருவரைப் பற்றியும் மகா கேவலமாக அறிக்கை, பேட்டி கொடுத்துவரும் ஜாகுவார்களை, குகநாதன்களை ஒரு சின்ன கேள்வி கூட கேட்காமல் அமைதியாக நடிகர் சங்கம் வேடிக்கைப் பார்க்கக் காரணம் என்ன?

இன்னொரு பக்கம் இந்த நபருக்குப் பரிந்து கொண்டு களமிறங்கியுள்ளன நாடார் சமூகத்துக்கு பிரதிநிதிகள் என்று கூறிக்கொள்ளும் சில சங்கங்கள்.

எர்ணாவூர் நாராயணன் என்பவர் தலைமையிலான நாடார் சங்கம், மணலி சேக்காடு வட்டார நாடார் ஐக்கிய உறவின்முறை மகமை தரும பண்டு, எழில் நகர் வட்டார நாடார் சங்க தலைவர் அருணாசலம், மணலி நாடார் சங்க செயலாளர் மாரிமுத்து, தமிழ்நாடு நாடார் பேரவை தலைவர் பாலசுப்பிரமணி, வர்த்தக சங்க தலைவர் கடற்கரை நாடார்…

-இன்னும் நீள்கிறது இந்த ஜாதி சங்க லிஸ்ட்…

இந்தப் பிரச்சினையை பப்ளிசிட்டிக்காகவே ஆரம்பித்தவர் ஜாகுவார் தங்கம்தான். தானுண்டு தன் வேலையுண்டு என்று தன் வழியில் செல்லும் ரஜினி, அஜீத் போன்றவர்களை அடிக்கடி வம்புக்கு இழுத்து அதில் ஓசி விளம்பரம் தேடுவதே இவரைப் போன்ற நபர்களின் வாடிக்கை. இதற்கு சாதியின் பெயரால் ஆதரவை வாரி வாரி வழங்க பெரிய பத்திரிகைகளும் தயாராகவே உள்ளன.

‘நாடார்களுக்கு நான் மாப்பிள்ளையாக்கும்’ என்று மேடைக்கு மேடை முழங்கும் முதல்வர் கருணாநிதியும் இந்த விஷயத்தில் குற்றவாளியான ஜாகுவார் தங்கம் போன்றவர்களுக்கே சாதகமான முடிவை எடுப்பது வழமையாக நாம் பார்த்து வரும் ஒன்றுதான்.

ஆனால் நடிகர் சங்கம் காட்டி வரும் மவுனம் உள்நோக்கம் கொண்டது… அதன் நிர்வாகிகளின் பொறாமை புத்திக்கு இன்னொரு ஆதாரம்.
07:03 (2½ hours ago)
Ramesh.R
நடிகர் சங்க பவள விழாவுக்கு யாரை அழைத்தாலும் கூட்டம் வராது, வசூலும் தேறாது. நீங்கள்தான் வரவேண்டும். நீங்க ஒருவர் வந்தால் போதும்… வேறு யாரும் தேவையில்லை என்று கெஞ்சி கூத்தாடி ரஜினியை அழைத்தார்கள். நான்கு நாட்கள் நடந்த அந்த சாதாரண நாடக விழா, கடைசி நாளில் மட்டும் நட்சத்திர விழாவாக ஜொலித்தது. காரணம் ரஜினி!

நடிகைகளை விபச்சாரிகள் என்று ஒரு பத்திரிகை பட்டியல் போட்டுவிட்டது என்றதும் அலறித் துடித்து, ரஜினி வந்து பத்திரிகைகளுக்கு கண்டனம் தெரிவிக்க வேண்டும் என்று ஒற்றைக் காலில் நின்றதுதான் இந்த நடிகர் சங்கம். அன்று பல பத்திரிகைகள் ரஜினி அங்கே போகக் கூடாது என்று கோரிக்கை விடுத்தும் நடிகர் சங்கத்துக்காக போய் நின்று தனது கண்டனத்தைப் பதிவு செய்தார் ரஜினி. அவர் போனதால்தான் அன்றைய கண்டனக் கூட்டம் அடுத்த பல மாதங்கள் பேசும் அளவு பெரும் நிகழ்வானது.

அதேபோல தனது ஜக்குபாய்க்கு ஒரு பிரச்சினை என்றதும் ரஜினியும் கமலும் வந்தே தீர வேண்டும் என்று முரட்டுப் பிடிவாதம் பிடித்து வரவழைத்தவர் நடிகர் சங்கத் தலைவரான சரத்குமார். ராதிகா அழுது புலம்பினார் ரஜினியிடம். அந்த பாடாவதி படத்தின் பிரிவியூ காட்சிக்கும் ரஜினி வந்தாக வேண்டும் என்றார்கள். அவரும் வந்தார்.

அதன் பிறகு எத்தனை விழாக்கள், அர்த்தமற்ற மேடைகள்… ஆனால் அத்தனைக்கும், இந்த வெண்ணைவெட்டிகள் இழுத்த இழுப்புக்கெல்லாம் போய் நின்று சிறப்பித்துக் கொடுத்தார் ரஜினி. காரணம், சினிமா உலக நன்மைக்காக, சக கலைஞர்களின் சந்தோஷத்துக்காக மட்டுமே.

ஆனால் ரஜினிக்கு ஒரு பிரச்சினை என்றால் மட்டும் இந்த நாட்டாமைகளுக்கு நாக்கு இழுத்துக் கொள்கிறது, தொண்டை விக்கிக் கொள்கிறது. பேச்சே வர மறுக்கிறது. அவருக்கு ஆதரவாகப் பேச வேண்டிய கூட்டத்துக்கு மட்டும் போக முடியாமல் கால்கள் முடங்கிப் போகின்றன சரத்குமார்களுக்கு.

இதே ஜக்குபாய் கூட்டத்தில் ரஜினி பேசியதற்கு தியேட்டர்காரர்கள் கண்டனம் தெரிவித்தனர் (‘திருட்டு விசிடி வர காரணமான தியேட்டர்களுக்கு படம் தரக்கூடாது!’). கேவலமாக அறிக்கை விட்டனர். அதற்கு ஒரு மறுமொழி கூட சொல்லாமல் மவுனம் சாதித்தது நடிகர் சங்கமும் அதன் தலைவரும்.

இப்போது யார்யாரோ கண்டபடி பேசுகிறார்கள், பேட்டி தருகிறார்கள்… ரஜினி ஒரு காமெடியர் என்று எகத்தாளம் பேசும் அளவுக்கு துணிகிறார்கள். ஆனால் இப்போதும் வாயைப் பொத்திக் கொண்டு சும்மாதான் இருக்கிறது இந்த சங்கம்.
07:03 (2½ hours ago)
Ramesh.R
இப்போது யார்யாரோ கண்டபடி பேசுகிறார்கள், பேட்டி தருகிறார்கள்… ரஜினி ஒரு காமெடியர் என்று எகத்தாளம் பேசும் அளவுக்கு துணிகிறார்கள். ஆனால் இப்போதும் வாயைப் பொத்திக் கொண்டு சும்மாதான் இருக்கிறது இந்த சங்கம்.

இந்த பிரச்சினையில் மட்டுமல்ல… அதாவது ரஜினி ஆதரவு கண்டிப்பாக வேண்டும். ஆனால் அவருக்கு ஒரு பிரச்சினை என்றால் அதை அவரே பார்த்துக் கொள்ள வேண்டும் என்பது இவர்களின் நியாயம்.

இப்போது அஜீத்துக்கும் அதே நியாயத்தை ‘அப்ளை’ பண்ணுகிறது நடிகர் சங்கம்.

கண்டித்து அறிக்கைவிடாவிட்டாலும் கூட பரவாயில்லை… கூடவே இருந்து குழியும் பறித்து குப்புறத் தள்ளிய கதையாக, இப்போது அஜீத் வருத்தம் கேட்க வேண்டும் என்றும், ரஜினிக்கு கடும் கண்டனம் என்றும் அறிவித்து, அதில் நடிகர் சங்கமும் கையெழுத்திட்டுள்ளதை எந்த நியாயத்தில் சேர்ப்பது?

ரஜினி அடிக்கடி கூறுவது போல, ‘நல்லவனா இருக்கிறது ரொம்ப கஷ்டம்’தான்.

:bash:

georgenadar

February 21st, 2010, 05:16 AM

குறிப்பு: இந்த அற்ப மனிதர்கள் லிஸ்டில் ஒருவரை விட்டுவிட்டோம்… அந்த நபர் இன்று ஒரு அறிக்கை விட்டு மீண்டும் நினைவுபடுத்தினார். பெயர் பன்னி செல்வம்… ( பன்னீராம்). இவர் யாரென்று தெரிகிறதா… குசேலன் படம் வெளியான அடுத்த நாளே, அந்தப் படம் ப்ளாப் என்று கிளப்பிவிட்டு, பணம் பறிப்பதில் குறியாக இருந்த கொள்ளைக் கூட்டத்துக்கு… அதாங்க தியேட்டர் உரிமையாளர் சங்கத்துக்கு தலைவர்.
அஜீத் மன்னிப்பு கேட்க வேண்டுமாம். இல்லாவிட்டால் அவர் படத்தை ஓடவிடமாட்டாராம். அடுத்து நிச்சயம் எந்திரனுக்கு பிரச்சினை தர பாயைப் பிறாண்டுகிறது இந்த ஜென்மம்.

Kewl Batty

February 22nd, 2010, 08:26 PM

^^

Yes.. Should have been Porkaalam and Poarkazham. :|

Poarkazham? :lol:

Its poarkalam!

ceeznic pirate

February 23rd, 2010, 04:48 AM

^^

jst curious

How will you differentiate கலம், கழம் and களம் in english? :|

Kewl Batty

February 25th, 2010, 09:54 PM

u can differentiate

see how I did it :D
கழம் - Kazham
கலம் - Kalam
களம் - KaLam :lol:

ceeznic pirate

February 26th, 2010, 04:47 AM

கலம் - Kalam
களம் - KaLam :bash::bash:

:lol:

ChennaiIndian

February 26th, 2010, 11:13 PM

http://www.expressbuzz.com/edition/story.aspx?Title=Kollywood+goes+gaga+over+travel+sop&artid=kys5Lioed68=&SectionID=lifojHIWDUU=&MainSectionID=wIcBMLGbUJI=&SectionName=rSY|6QYp3kQ=&SEO=

CHENNAI: Railway Minister Mamata Banerjee’s proposal to offer concessions up to 75 per cent on railway travel undertaken by film technicians has come as good news to the film industry.
Not only would this impact the producers, who would now have to shell out less by way of travel cost to film technicians, it will also ensure a safer journey for tem.
The proposal envisages a 75 per cent concession on travel in secondclass sleeper and 50 per cent in first class, AC chair car, AC 2 Tier and AC 3 tier trains.
The technicians would be eligible for the concessions while travelling on film production related work in all trains including the Rajdhani, Shatabdi and Jan Shatabdi. This is the first time that film technicians are being given such a concession in the country.
General secretary of the Film Employees Federation of South India G Siva, said: “Such concessions on rail travel was available only for those who had received state or national honours like the Kalaimamani or the national awards so far. It is good that technicians’ problems are being looked into now.” Film producer Dhanu, however, observed that it would not significantly reduce the problems of funding travel for technicians. “Tamil filmmakers have started exploring newer regions for shooting. Technicians do not have the time often to travel by train even if the films were shot in India. Most of the travel happens on flights., ”he said.

ChennaiIndian

February 27th, 2010, 10:16 PM

http://www.expressbuzz.com/edition/story.aspx?Title=CM+steps+in+to+end+intra-film+industry+row&artid=wf70hLWLBxY=&SectionID=lifojHIWDUU=&MainSectionID=wIcBMLGbUJI=&SectionName=rSY|6QYp3kQ=&SEO=

CHENNAI: Seeking to end the ongoing row over the remarks made by actor Ajith Kumar at a recent function in the city, Chief Minister M Karunanidhi on Thursday appealed to the film industry to maintain decorum by not giving any room for mutual rift.
At an event to felicitate the Chief Minister on February 6, Ajith had urged the DMK chief to advise industry seniors not to pressure actors to attend protests that had political overtones.
In his letter to the DMK cadre on Thursday, Karunanidhi said: “Ego, jealousy and disappointment are the basic reasons for many unsolved problems in the film industry.” Ajith’s remarks, he said, had indeed raised suspicions that they were directed against him (Karunanidhi) alone. When a section of the media and some other persons attempted to divert the issue by using this opportunity, Ajith sought to put an end to the controversy and met him.
Karunanidhi said Ajith had clarified that he had made those remarks keeping not him (Karunanidhi) in mind but some other past incidents.
“Those who have attempted to create a big issue out of this row have been disappointed following the efforts taken by actors like Rajnikanth.” “The entire film industry, including those who were in the forefront to organise that felicitation function — directors Rama Narayanan, Guhanathan, actors Sarath Kumar and Radharavi — should vow to maintain decorum so that no one can create even an iota of confusion. It will give more happiness to me than the felicitation function,” Karunanidhi said.
The Chief Minister recalled the number of welfare measures initiated by successive DMK governments and also that the film industry had organised the felicitation function out of gratitude, love and affection towards him.

vs007

March 2nd, 2010, 06:33 AM

Watched VTV.
Another good one from Gautham Menon with excellent photography, cinematography, and ofcourse good music from ARR. For a change Simbu tried to act, and did a good job.

madurai veeran

March 2nd, 2010, 03:51 PM

vs007

March 3rd, 2010, 04:09 AM

^^ I saw the movie during the weekend and the movie was good.

It had a little over dose of love and Trisha's character was kinda annoying at times bcos of her unstable and confused mindset. Other than that It had all elements of a Gautham Menon movie.

You are right, its not a typical love story. The character Trisha plays is head strong and had some ambivalence towards love.

ChennaiIndian

March 7th, 2010, 05:11 AM

http://www.hindu.com/2010/03/07/stories/2010030760600200.htm

CHENNAI: Kamal Haasan has quietly begun work on his next project with director K.S. Ravikumar, which is expected to be a rib-tickler.

With the script nearly done for the project that is tentatively titled ‘Yaavarum kaelir,' the actor is busy penning the screenplay and dialogue, it is learnt from industry sources.

While actor Trisha, who has been receiving rave reviews for her performance in the recent ‘Vinnaithandi Varuvaya,' plays the female lead, actor Madhavan is also said to be playing an interesting role in the film, according to sources.

This film has Devisri Prasad scoring the music. The young music director had earlier composed the background score for the actor's ‘Dasavatharam.'

Another buzz about the film is that Manush Nandan, son of writer Gnani, who has been assisting ace cinematographer Ravi K. Chandran, is likely to be the cinematographer for the project. The youngster had earlier filmed one song in ‘Unnaipol Oruvan,' which left the crew quite impressed.

The shoot will begin next month and the team is hoping to complete the film in time for release on Deepavali day.

After ‘Unnaipol Oruvan', which was on a serious note, fans of Kamal are hoping that this film would be a comedy on the lines of ‘Avvai Shanmugi,' ‘Thenaali' or ‘Panchatantram' that this actor-director combination, along with Crazy Mohan, treated fans to.

Kavalier

March 7th, 2010, 07:40 AM

Nice,
After Vasool Raja there has been a long gap, I hope Crazy Mohan is in this one too,
Flims like Kadhala Kadhala, Vasool Raja are evidence of the successful pairing of Kamal and Crazy Mohan.

ChennaiIndian

March 17th, 2010, 04:50 AM

http://www.deccanchronicle.com/chennai/piracy-inc-715

Chennai, March 16: Kollywood is already suffering losses due to pirated DVDs and VCDs of latest films flooding the city, but members of the Tamil Nadu Local Private Channel Owners Welfare Association (TNLPCOWA) claim that the situation is worse in the districts.
The group recently approached the state police chief and the chief minister’s cell seeking their intervention to prevent private cable operators who have not obtained rights to screen new films from screening these films and film songs.
In their complaint, the association’s members claimed that they had entered an exclusive, signed agreement with the Tamil Nadu Film Producers Council for films in Tamil Nadu and Puducherry for 2005-2010. “However, several private cable TV operators, especially from districts like Virudhunagar, Thoothukudi and Tiruchy have been screening films and movie clips without obtaining any permission from us. When we complain to the video piracy cell of the CB-CID police, no action is taken,” says Mr T.J. Jeeva, state president of TNLPCOWA.
He points out that the video piracy cell has been ineffective and cannot curb the menace as one inspector is in charge of three districts.
“When we call up the inspector who is put up in one district and inform him about the illegal screening of a movie in another district, he does go and inspect it; but by the time he reaches the spot, the screening is already over,” Mr Jeeva adds.
The channel owners’ body has requested top police officials to intervene and curb the menace.
Senior police officials in the video piracy cell say they are aware of the issue.
“It is true that we have one inspector for three districts but that situation will soon change and the video piracy cell will soon be merged with the economic offences wing (EOW),” says a senior police official.
Video piracy cell deputy inspector general of police Arumugam told this newspaper that the police had received the complaint and even registered several cases against cable TV operators flouting the law.

Sampathkumar

March 22nd, 2010, 11:36 AM

இசைஞானி இளையராஜா இந்த தேசத்தின் பெருமை என்று புகழாரம் சூட்டினார் நடிகரும் கல்வியாளருமான மோகன் பாபு.

மோகன் பாபுவின் பிறந்த நாளையொட்டி சிறப்பு இசைக் கச்சேரி நடத்தினார் இசைஞானி இளையராஜா.

இந்த கச்சேரியில் 32 வயலினிஸ்டுகள் பங்கேற்றனர். முன்பதிவு செய்த இசையை துளியும் பயன்படுத்தாமல், முழுக்க முழுக்க தொழில்முறை இசைக் கலைஞர்கள் மட்டுமே பங்கேற்ற மிகப் பெரிய கச்சேரியாக இதனை நடத்தினார் ராஜா.

தெலுங்கின் முன்னணி இயக்குநர்களில் ஒருவரான ராகவேந்திர ராவ், ஆந்திர முன்னாள் முதல்வர் ஏ ஜனார்தன் ரெட்டி உள்ளிட்டோர் இந்த நிகழ்ச்சியில் பங்கேற்று இசைக்கச்சேரியை முழுவதுமாக இருந்து ரசித்தனர்.

பின்னர் பேசிய மோகன் பாபு, என் படங்களை இசையால் நிறைத்தவர் இசைஞானி இளையராஜா. எனது மூத்த சகோதரர் அவர். இன்று நேற்றல்ல... எனது சினிமா வாழ்க்கையின் ஆரம்ப நாள்களிலிருந்தே சகோதரர் இளையராஜாவின் இசை எனக்கு பெரும் துணையாக இருந்து வருகிறது.

இந்த தேசம் அவருக்குக் கடமைப்பட்டுள்ளது. இந்தியாவின் சிலிர்க்க வைக்கும் பெருமைகளுள் இளையராஜாவும் ஒருவர்..." என்றார்.

இந்த கச்சேரியில், மகாத்மா காந்தியின் பொன்மொழிகளை வைத்து ஒரு பாடலை உருவாக்கினார் இளையராஜா. அதனை மோகன் பாபுவின் கல்வி நிறுவனங்களுக்கு அர்ப்பணிப்பதாக அறிவித்தார்.

http://thatstamil.oneindia.in/movies/specials/2010/03/ilayaraja-is-the-pride-india-moh.html

shekar

April 2nd, 2010, 04:34 PM

http://www.hindu.com/2010/04/02/stories/2010040262521400.htm

‘I often meet couples who got married with my music,” says A.R. Rahman. “Or young actresses, who tell me that when they were girls, their mothers would put them to bed by playing my music.”

Rahman is a huge star in India. Huge. His work on scoring more than 100 movies has produced sales of more than 100 million records and over 200 million cassettes, making him the only Asian in the list of the world's top 25 bestselling recording artists.

Time magazine, who dubbed him “the Mozart of Madras,” placed him in its list of the world's 100 most influential people last year. He's won numerous awards, both in India and further afield, but it was last year's Oscar win, for his work on Slumdog Millionaire, that really changed things.

“Everyone dreams of winning an Oscar,” he says. “It gave my work a new level of recognition and legitimacy.” Rahman's gongs, for best song and best score, made him only the third Indian to win an Academy award. The success of Slumdog Millionaire brought other advantages — “I had the chance to meet some of my great heroes,” says Rahman. “I got to meet Barbra Streisand and work with Celine Dion, and I was the first Indian to perform at the Hollywood Bowl.”

Today, we're a long way from Los Angeles, in his north London base, a house near Hampstead Heath. Rahman has been visiting and working in the United Kingdom for the last 15 years, and later this month will attend London's Southbank Centre's Alchemy Festival (“exploring the culture of India, its diaspora and its relationship to the U.K. today”), at which the London Philharmonic Orchestra will perform some of his best-known works — from his Oscar-winning soundtrack of course, but also from the likes of Elizabeth: the Golden Age, the hit musical Bollywood Dreams, and some of his landmark Hindi films such as Lagaan and Jaane Tu ... Ya Jaane Na.

Rahman may have only achieved global fame recently, but he has been making music for most of his life. “I started playing music at the age of five,” Rahman says, “the piano and harmonium, and after my father died when I was nine my mother was determined that I was going to also be a musician.” Rahman's great innovation for Indian movies was to introduce orchestral melodies to the traditional Hindi film soundtrack's fondness for violent, slashing violins and dramatic tablas. This earned him comparisons to Andrew Lloyd Webber and Paul McCartney.

“In India, we love melodies in the background of scenes,” he says, “but in the West, there is a sense that soundtracks should not distract so there is a greater preference for more ambient sounds and plain chords.”

And, Rahman says, an international composer cannot make music that is purely national in quality — something he is bearing in mind for his forthcoming London concert. “This will be the first time I am playing in London since winning the Oscar,” he says, “so it is important to play music that will be accepted by an international audience but which retains an essential Indian quality.”

Despite his fame, Rahman stresses the virtues of humility, which he attributes to his conversion to Islam at the age of 23 (at which point he changed his name from Dileep Kumar to Allah Rakha Rahman). “What appealed to me about Islam was that this is a religion based on unconditional love and a belief in one god and one love,” he says.

Next week's concert is part of a mission, an effort to use music to unite. “At one of my concerts you will see people of all colours and religions together. That is what music can do. A song is more powerful than a thousand rallies.

ChennaiIndian

April 3rd, 2010, 05:38 PM

http://www.indiaglitz.com/channels/tamil/article/55846.html

A look at the music launch invitation of ‘Madharasapattinam’ could take you to the Chennai of pre-independence era, since director of the film Vijay and his team have carefully crafted the invite with many a surprise.

There were postal covers with stamps of the King and Queen, British coins circulated in India at that time, post cards of the 1940s, photographs of old Madras, tickets for a show at the Eliphinstone theatre and a map of the town of Madras (in which the city ends just by touching Guindy).

Says Vijay, who had earlier directed ‘Kireedam’ and ‘Poi Solla Porom’, “this is not a mere publicity stunt. Since the film is set in pre-independence era, we wanted the audio launch invitation to resemble that. We formed a team which did intense research to put things in shape.”

“I am happy to receive a positive feedback for the invitation,” he says and adds: “I should thank producer Kalpathi S Agoram for allowing me to spend without any restrictions to bring authenticity in the movie as well as in the invitation.”

Kamal Haasan will launch the audio of ‘Madharaspattinam’, the Arya starrer, at a grand function in Chennai Trade Centre on Sunday. Director Shankar, Tamil Film Producers Council president Rama Narayanan and Distributors Association president Kalaipuli G Sekaran among others will be the chief guests.

ChennaiIndian

April 3rd, 2010, 05:39 PM

http://www.indiaglitz.com/channels/tamil/article/55865.html

Ulaga Nayagan Kamal Haasan's fans are as different and creative as the versatile star himself. One of the fans of Kamal Haasan from Srivilliputhur has tried something unique and is attempting to put the name of his favourite star in the Guinness Book of World Records.

Manikandan is a devoted fan of Kamal Haasan and he has written a biography of the actor from ‘Kalathur Kannamma’ to ‘Dhasavatharam’. The unique thing is that the title of the book alone consists of 330 words with 1458 characters. The previous record for a similar thing is 290 words with 1443 characters and belongs to an Italian, Manikandan says. :nuts::nuts::nuts::nuts::nuts:

Manikandan is all set to send his feat to the Guinness Records and put his idol’s in history.

ChennaiIndian

April 3rd, 2010, 05:40 PM

http://www.indiaglitz.com/channels/tamil/article/55802.html

A R Rahman has said that he will compose ‘Jai Ho’ in Tamil after he completes his world tour, mostly by early next year. The Academy Award winner A R Rahman said this while he was speaking at the felicitation organized by the Delhi Tamil Sangam for Padma awardees from Tamil Nadu in New Delhi on Wednesday.

The Mozart of Madras said he got the idea composing the new anthem ‘Jai Ho’ in Tamil when he heard children sing the song in Hindi during the function.

Apart from Rahman, Nobel Prize winner Venkatraman Ramakrishnan, Apollo Hospitals Chairman Dr Prathap C Reddy, former CBI director D R Karthikeyan and Siddha expert J R Krishnamurthy were also felicitated.

ChennaiIndian

April 3rd, 2010, 05:44 PM

This is old news but worth posting the direct article from the Times magazine.

http://www.time.com/time/specials/packages/article/0,28804,1953094_1953146,00.html

http://img.timeinc.net/time/alltime100movies/100_movies/nayakan.jpg

Directed By: Mani Ratnam
Screenplay: Rajasri , Mani Ratnam
Cast: Kamal Hassan, Saranya, Janagaraj
Bollywood is shorthand for Bombay Hollywood, seat of the largest Indian film industry. But it manufactures only about 200 of the thousand or so Indian feature films; a half-dozen regions boast production sites larger than most of the world's national cinemas. Madras, capital of the Tamil state, is one such place, and its leader — arguably India's top pop-film auteur — is Mani Ratnam. His movies, often dramatizing social unrest and political terrorism, churn with narrative tension and camera energy that would be the envy of Hollywood directors, if they were ever to see them. Nayakan, an early, defining work in his career, tells the Godfatherish tale of Velu, a boy who embraces a life of crime after his father is killed by the police. Velu (Kamal Hasan) has trouble juggling his family life with his life-and-death mob "family"; Ratnam has no such difficulty blending melodrama and music, violence and comedy, realism and delirium, into a two-and-a-half-hour demonstration that, when a gangster's miseries are mounting, the most natural solution is to go singin' in the rain.

From the TIME Archive:
"A terrific gangster epic in the Godfather style"

Read more: http://www.time.com/time/specials/packages/article/0,28804,1953094_1953146,00.html#ixzz0k3JGD6xb

ChennaiIndian

April 3rd, 2010, 05:46 PM

This is also old news but worth posting the original BBC article.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/worldservice/us/features/topten/profiles/index.shtml

Number 1. A nation once again, Wolfe Tones Listen

The Wolfe Tones are one of Ireland's most famous folk bands. They recorded A Nation once again in 1964. The song was written in the 1840s as a call for Irish independence.

Number 2. Vande Mataram, Various artists Listen

A patriotic Hindi song, the lyrics from a very famous poem written by Bankim Chandra Chatarji. Regarded by many as India's national song. Performed in the 50's film "Anand Math".

Number 3. Dil Dil Pakistan, Vital Signs Listen

Vital Signs' first real taste of success was "Dil Dil Pakistan" in 1987. It instantly became the song that was on everyone's lips, a kind of pop national anthem. Next was their debut album: Vital Signs, released in 1989 it produced several hits including Gori, Yeh Shaam and Samjana.

Number 4. Rakkamma Kaiya Thattu, llayaraaja Listen

Performed by S. P. Balasubramaniam and Swarnalatha, Rakkamma Kayya Thattu, this song is from the movie "Thalapathy", an Indian version of the God-father. The musical director of the film was Ilayaraaja.

Number 5. Poovum Nadakkuthu Pinchum Nadakkuthu, Thirumalai Chandran Listen

From the Tamil Tiger Film "Mugungal" about the Tamil plight in Sri Lanka.

Number 6. Ana wa Laila, (Me and Laila) Kazem El Saher Listen

Tall, dark and handsome, Kazem Al-Saher is arguably the biggest pop star to come out of Iraq. Ana wa Laila, his most famous song is about his love for Laila. pop star to come out of Iraq. This, a song from the early part of his career (late 90's) is about his tortured love for Laila.

Number 7.Reetu haruma timi hariyali basant hau nadihruma timi pabitra ganga hau, Arun Thapa Listen

A very romantic song the title of which means "You are the spring amongst the seasons". From one of Nepal's biggest pop stars. The Late Thapa died in 1999. He had been suffering from lung and liver ailment. He started his singing career approximately 30 years ago when he first sang his songs in Radio Nepal in 1971. Thapa's songs are popular among all sections of the society.

Number 8. Believe, Cher Listen

Cher is a solo singer who made her name in the 60's as part of a husband and wife singing team but has gone on to have hits in 5 decades. Her song "Believe" was a number 1 single in the UK in 1998 and went on to be the biggest selling single of the year remaining at the top of the UK charts for 7 weeks. Cher is also an Oscar winning film actress appearing in films such as: Mask, Witches of Eastwick and Moonstruck.

Number 9.Chaiyya Chaiyya, A R Rahman Listen
Music director: A R Rahman

From the film "Dil Se", Chaiyya Chaiyya is performed by the Punjabi folk singer Sukhinder Singh. The musical director of the film A R Rahman, is one of Bollywood's top music directors.

Number 10. Bohemian Rhapsody, Queen Listen

The only record to top the UK chart on 2 occasions selling more than 1 million copies each time, first in Nov. '75 and again in Dec.'91. Widely recognised as first pop tune to have its own video, this six minute pop opera regularly tops polls in UK.

Fusionist

April 3rd, 2010, 10:43 PM

ChennaiIndian

April 5th, 2010, 01:13 AM

I watched Naanayam today. It is a very nice racy thriller. Good cinematography, racy BGMs, nice music particularly one song, no unnecessary dialogues, no over build-up etc. :)

Many scenes and a part of the screenplay have been ripped off from Hollywood movies like Bank Job, Ocean's Eleven and Ocean's Twelve particularly the LASER jump dance sequence. :nuts::nuts::nuts:

Sibiraj has tried to mimic his father as a jovial villain but he is only half as good as his father. Anyway nice try. :)

Overall, a nice multiplex entertainer!

satishanu

April 8th, 2010, 09:47 PM

The Film Distributors' Association of Kerala (FDAK) has decided not to allow any non-Malayalam movie (including Tamil, Telugu, Hindi and English) to release in the state simultaneously with the all India release from April 16. Sadly, the decision came as a major disappointment for Vijay fans in the state, who were eagerly awaiting the superstar’s much-hyped 50th film Sura, slated for May 1 release.

FDAK has decided to implement this controversial decision to support protectionism. The association claims that other language films are currently releasing in as many centres as Malayalam films and smaller Malayalam films are finding it difficult to get theatres. As per the new order of FDAK, other language films can release in Kerala only two weeks after their worldwide release.

Notably, recent non-Malayalam films like Avatar, 2012, Vinnaithandi Varuvaaya, Vettaikkaran, My Name Is Khan and 3 Idiots did fantastic business at the box office in Kerala, dramatically subduing the collections of Malayalam movies in theatres!

Siyad Kokker, president of FDAK, said: "After Vishu, we will not allow the release of any new films in Kerala, unless our terms and conditions are met by the theatre owners. We have also made it clear that other language film can release in Kerala only two weeks after their worldwide release."

It is noteworthy that at a recent public function, Malayalam superstar Mohanlal lashed out at other language films for spoiling the market of Malayalam films in Kerala. "Some kind of regulation has to be put on other language films being screened here. Otherwise our industry will crash. Priority should be given to Malayalam releases at least during the holiday season," he said.

Source: http://tamil.galatta.com/entertainment/livewire/id/Restriction_for_other_language_films_in_Kerala_37367.html

How pathetic and desperate? Why can't they take better movies to compete with other films instead of involving in such petty acts. Anyways feel sorry for film buffs over there.

chennaidesi

April 9th, 2010, 03:18 AM

Better Mallu movie makers can make movies matching to Hindi or Tamil standards rather than imposing this kind of restrictions.

ChennaiIndian

April 9th, 2010, 05:11 AM

^^ A few years back, the same thing happened to the Kannada film industry because they couldn't compete with other film industries at that time. I don't know the situation now.

Its a surprise that the Malayalam film industry has come down to this level. :ohno::ohno: Perhaps they should also learn to make movies that everyone would like instead of only making documentary or too much of social themes which are the genre of the Doordharshan age :lol::lol:

Hats off to the Tamil and Telugu industries for keeping things going and competing with the Bollywood industry. :cheers::cheers:

shekar

April 9th, 2010, 07:02 AM

[QUOTE=ChennaiIndian;54806877]^^ A few years back, the same thing happened to the Kannada film industry because they couldn't compete with other film industries at that time. I don't know the situation now.

http://sify.com/movies/kannada/fullstory.php?id=14935370&cid=13319495

On Monday, four theatres running four movies -- Varshadhaare, Janani, Nanna Olavina Banna and Preethi Nee Shaashwatana had to cancel shows due to poor ticket sales. According to the theatre owners, each cinema did not attract more than 10-15 audience! :lol: :lol: :lol:

ChennaiIndian

April 9th, 2010, 04:49 PM

^^ I can only feel sorry for them. This can happen to anyone. Only time will tell if someone can take the mantle from the likes of Mani Ratnam, Shankar, ARR, Kamal etc. for our industry. :|

reswaran

April 9th, 2010, 06:16 PM

^^ I can only feel sorry for them. This can happen to anyone. Only time will tell if someone can take the mantle from the likes of Mani Ratnam, Shankar, ARR, Kamal etc. for our industry. :|

Tamil and telugu industry has very strong movie goers base and hence they are able to make very high budget movies. Malayalam movies are more realistic and made at shoe-string budgets. So there is a monetary constraint for their creativity. Its not that there aren't good creators there. Its just that people there got more interested towards more entertaining and extravagant movies.

IMO, kannada industry somehow lacks creativity compared to the rest 3. May be becos most of the people there are either migrated from TN/Andhra/Maharashtra and they are satisfied watching the movies in their own language or hindi movies.

Saravanakkumar

April 11th, 2010, 09:12 AM

Kavalier

April 11th, 2010, 11:04 AM

Source: http://tamil.galatta.com/entertainment/livewire/id/Restriction_for_other_language_films_in_Kerala_37367.html

How pathetic and desperate? Why can't they take better movies to compete with other films instead of involving in such petty acts. Anyways feel sorry for film buffs over there.

It's not just Kerala all states do that, In KA you can't dub movies into Kanada, in TN there is a huge tax on non-Tamil and dubbed movies while direct Tamil movies are tax free.

satishanu

April 11th, 2010, 03:29 PM

^We are not talking about the taxes here.

Kavalier

April 11th, 2010, 07:01 PM

The purpose is the same, which is to discourage people from buying movies from other states. If there is a 50% tax on dubbed movies and no tax on Tamil movies, distributors will automatically choose Tamil movies. Its not completely wrong afterall states are just trying to protect an industry which employ tens of thousands of people.

Ofcourse none of these measures work in the long run,it may give some short term relief. For ex in KA despite restrictions on dubbing, Kannada movies aren't doing well, insteaf people are watching movies directly in Hindi.

ChennaiIndian

April 11th, 2010, 07:13 PM

^^ Dubbings and remakes will create loss of creativity and should be generally discouraged. For great and once-in-a-lifetime movies like Avatar, dubbing is needed to make it reach to the masses. Here, more than creativity, the pleasure of watching something different and extravagant is important. This is because we may not get that in our industry atleast in the near future and so seeing the dubbed versions is the only way out. Dubbing Indian movies from one language to another which are no different in storylines or technical brilliance makes no sense. In this case, we don't want to become another KA with a mediocre film industry (by the way, this is not intended to be offensive). For TN, silently copying English movies and using those scenes and storylines are enough to make our movies a success! (by the way, this is intended to be offensive) :lol::lol:

ceeznic pirate

April 12th, 2010, 02:11 PM

not to allow any non-Malayalam movie (including Tamil, Telugu, Hindi and English) to release in the state simultaneously with the all India release from April 16

Source: http://tamil.galatta.com/entertainment/livewire/id/Restriction_for_other_language_films_in_Kerala_37367.html

:cry::cry::cry::cry::cry::cry::cry::cry::cry:

ChennaiIndian

April 18th, 2010, 06:45 PM

A series of short articles right from the beginning days of Kollywood till date...

http://www.indiaglitz.com/channels/tamil/article/56230.html

http://www.indiaglitz.com/channels/tamil/article/56269.html

http://www.indiaglitz.com/channels/tamil/article/56268.html

ChennaiIndian

April 18th, 2010, 06:48 PM

I thought this will be an original idea...crap...these guys have even lifted some scenes from Lagaan and slightly changed the story as seen in the trailer. :bash::bash::bash::bash::bash:

It is about a love story between an Indian guy and a British lady in the 1940s. By then, it was not Madrasapattinam...it was already Madras. I thought the name of the movie meant that they would be talking something about the initial days of the city but that is not the case.

Let's wait for the movie to be released. :ohno::ohno::ohno::ohno:

(pollachi)sudhakar

April 18th, 2010, 07:15 PM

quote : originally Posted by satishanu View Post
not to allow any non-Malayalam movie (including Tamil, Telugu, Hindi and English) to release in the state simultaneously with the all India release from April 16

Presently am studying in trivandrum.... little bit i know the condition of malayalam movies....even earlier malayalam movies which had been told as realistic movies are too dramatic and sad...(infact some movies are good,but some times feel like watching same kind of movies).. and the main thing i feel is there is less range of movies... if u take tamil movies, u can see romantic, comedy,village based,city based,action type...this is misiing..second thing is still malayalam industry is ruled by superstars... young generation actors are very less.. infact no except prithiviraj...and still they are making movies with so many pages of dialogues like 1980's...(characters will be keep on speaking,where they can say the matter in a single word).....mean time technical evaluation is also not there...and finally i feel kerala peoples taste also have changed....they also expects some entertaining movies...

These are the things to be taken care first to revive the malayalam industry rather than banning other language movies...

ChennaiIndian

April 19th, 2010, 08:22 PM

http://www.hindu.com/2010/04/19/stories/2010041950560200.htm

Paucity of theatres a key reason for film-makers postponing the launch

CHENNAI: When the release date for Irumbukkotai Murattu Singam, originally slated for April first week, was postponed, not many were surprised.

Rescheduling the release date is anything but a new phenomenon for Tamil cinema.

Recent films, including Vinnaithandi Varuvaaya and Angadi Theru kept the audience waiting as their release was delayed. While financial issues and sometimes, legal battles push the date of release of films further, many times it would be a deliberate decision by the filmmakers.

A film, despite being completed and ready for release, has to wait if there are big-budget films lined up in close succession.

According to a film director, paucity of theatres is usually a key reason for filmmakers to postpone the launch.

...

ChennaiIndian

April 21st, 2010, 01:59 AM

http://www.hindu.com/2010/04/21/stories/2010042159340200.htm

M.G.R. films with breezy storylines are preferred

The fan following for yesteryear actors is “still vibrant”

CHENNAI: Summer months are no longer considered lucrative only for new releases. The vacation is also the time when some of the evergreen classics are also re-released.

Topping the list of such re-releases are films of Sivaji Ganesan and M.G.R, which made waves several decades ago. Last summer saw multiplexes such as Mayajaal screening such classics for a month. :)

A couple of months ago, Sathyam Cinemas picked up 12 best films of the two legendary actors and screened them as part of its weekend special shows.

...

reswaran

April 21st, 2010, 08:43 AM

What will 'Raavan' by Mani called in tamil? Ashokavanam?? I see teaser trailers of Raavan with Abhishek. Is the tamil version out??

(pollachi)sudhakar

April 21st, 2010, 04:20 PM

hi...which is the next biggest cinema indudtry after bollywood in india... its kollywood or tollywood?just to know....

R2IChennai

April 21st, 2010, 06:22 PM

Domestically its Tollywood (Telugu) and if we include international business It may be Tamil or still Telugu movie industry might be equal to tamil

madurai veeran

April 21st, 2010, 07:07 PM

ChennaiIndian

April 21st, 2010, 11:00 PM

http://www.indiaglitz.com/channels/tamil/article/56361.html

ChennaiIndian

April 21st, 2010, 11:01 PM

This is a problem with people from TN...whether it is politics or movies, they don't come together... :bash::bash:

http://www.indiaglitz.com/channels/tamil/article/56380.html

Just imagine somebody remaking ‘Sholay’ with Rajinikanth and Kamal Haasn playing Amitabh and Dharmendra? Or our own ‘Thirisoolam’ remade with Sarath Kumar as the father and Vijay and Ajith as the two sons. Wow! Isn’t it? Kollywood has many talented actors and surprisingly they are very reluctant to come together for a single film. Actors are ready to play cameos but still not ready to do a parallel role with another hero. Why is that so? :bash:

In Hollywood and Bollywood we have seen great actors coming together for one film. The great stars were and are always ready to come together for a good script irrespective of their age and experience. :applause:

From Marlon Brando, Al Pacino to Jack Nicholson, Sean Connery to Richard Gere, Tom Cruise to Brad Pitt and Johnny Depp the list is never-ending. Films like A Few Good Men, Godfather, Catch me if you can, Departed are made more memorable also because of the perfect casting possible. :cheers:

...

ChennaiIndian

April 21st, 2010, 11:03 PM

http://www.indiaglitz.com/channels/tamil/article/56312.html

“Our forthcoming film Quarter-Cutting is a story of happenings that take place in Chennai on a single night,” says the filmmaker duo Pushkar-Gayathri of ‘Oram Po’, the Arya-Pooja starrer, fame. :nuts::nuts::nuts::nuts::nuts:

...

ChennaiIndian

April 21st, 2010, 11:06 PM

http://www.indiaglitz.com/channels/tamil/article/56093.html

Nice to see Sridevi after a long time... :)

http://icdn1.indiaglitz.com/tamil/news/sridevi120410_2.jpg

Just like yesteryears top heroine Radha trying to make her daughter Karthika the new sensation in south Indian cinema Sridevi is also launching her daughter Jhanvi on the big screen with the same ambition. Like Karthika Telugu will be the launch pad for Jhanvi also.

...

R2IChennai

April 22nd, 2010, 11:44 PM

^^ Are you sure about that ?, that was the case many years ago and not now. Tamil movies are released in Kerala, Karnataka and Andra Pradesh and also do good business there. I don't think Telugu movies get such a wide spread release in the south outside their state.

Definetely Tamil movies do better business outside India especially with Tamils in Singapore, Malaysia and middle east and the Srilankan Tamils in Europe and Canada.
Tamil movies run in AP after dubbing them in Telugu thats the reason why some mega budget movies are produced in Tamil instead of Telugu.
Tamil movies run all over Kerala and souther karnataka (read Blore/Mysore/Mlore) without dubbing .

Telugu movies run well in AP (much bigger than tamilnadu not just in population but number of fols also watching movies in theaters) and it runs well in karnataka, I would say Telugu movies have bigger market in Karnataka than Tamil because Telugu movies run in All the border areas and also in some part of Interior karnataka ).

satishanu

April 23rd, 2010, 12:11 AM

Telugu dubbed Tamil movie gets huge buck back to the producer and almost all popular Tamil movies are dubbed in Telugu. For example, Upcoming Raavan is getting 46crores for Telugu version.

Collection wise Tamil Film industry makes more buck than Tollywood.

Sampathkumar

April 23rd, 2010, 02:52 AM

CHENNAI: Most cinema buffs who heard the song ‘Oh Mahazeeya…' in Tamizh Padam were rather amused. Not just because they found the idea of using familiar lines from other film songs funny, but also because they were able to trace each of the “meaningless” words or phrases used in the song to the original hit.

Director Amudhan, who wrote the song, says he started out looking for words such as “Shaka laka”, “Randakka”, and “Naakka mokka”, but found more than he thought he would.

The entire song is written using such popular lines. “Since the film was a spoof, I wanted to try and dig out as many funny aspects and trends in Tamil films. It was not meant to hurt anyone,” he says.

While it may have sounded funny, the song also points to changing trends in Tamil film music.

Lyrics of songs in Tamil films today range from being conventionally poetic, conversational, funny and nostalgic to politically incorrect at times. Not that this is new, but with a bunch of young and talented lyricists around, in addition to the seniors, the picture has got bigger and more exciting.

“Much depends on the target audience. How old is your average film-goer today? About 18 – 25 years. There was a time when the lyrics touched the heart. Now, it is increasingly about making listeners tap their feet,” observes veteran poet-lyricist Vairamuthu.

The storyline is also important, he emphasises. “In films with a good storyline, songs serve as a tool that helps move the story. Films with a weak storyline cannot have songs with profound meaning,” he adds.

On arbitrary words being used Mr. Vairamuthu says such words have been used earlier, too. “It is for the way they sound. In older films, the comedian may have sung such songs, just that the hero sings them now,” he quips, adding that not all current songs are like that.

Lyricist Arivumathi feels that Tamil songs are in safe hands with the entry of lyricists such as Na. Muthukumar, Yugabharathi, Tamarai, Pazhanibharathi, Kabilan, Viveka and Snehan.

“They use such refreshingly new poetic devices and words, without affecting the natural flow of poetry. The metaphors and references are so rich,” he says, citing songs in films such as Subramanyapuram, Vennila Kabadi Kuzhu and Paruthiveeran.

Commenting on the variety Tamil films have seen through the pens of Kannadasan, Vaali, Vairamuthu, Marudakasi and Pattukottai Kalyana Sundaram, Arivumathi says the collection will only get richer now. “All of them get opportunities and the scene is very healthy and importantly, democratic.”

However, lyricists such as Tamarai feel that songs with “genuine and decent” lyrics are exceptions.

“My attempts are directed towards making such songs mainstream. Even in a song describing a woman ( Oru ooril azhagae uruvai…), I consciously chose to highlight the personality traits and not her appearance.”

http://www.hindu.com/2010/04/23/stories/2010042358760200.htm

shekar

April 29th, 2010, 09:58 AM

CHENNAI: When laptop-sized invitations for the audio launch of Madharasapattinam were distributed, talk about the film's extravagance did the rounds. Living up to the hype, the audio launch function left the visitors in awe with its magnificent set, simulating pre-Independence days.
The invite of the period film, starring Arya, had small packets of pictures and maps, each representing different aspects of the film. Glued inside the invite was a tiny sachet carrying coins minted in British period. A map of old Madras was pinned along.
A bunch of pictures of old Madras was also part of the invite. “Each invite, excluding the coins, cost us Rs.530. But the effort we took to collect the maps and coins mattered a lot. The research on the then Madras were done while we were shooting the film but it took a lot of time to collect the coins,” said Vijay, director of the film.
Awe-inspiring invites and thematic audio launches are nothing new to Tamil film industry. Three years ago Kandasamy surprised the industry when the crew distributed its video-integrated invitation for audio release.
More recently, Aayirathil Oruvan made waves for its thematic stage backdrop during the launch of its audio. “Thematic sets during audio launches and flamboyant invites have now become integral part of publicity by the film-makers,” explains art director T. Santhanam. The role of art directors has now extended beyond film shoots, as they are involved in introducing creativity during such events.
“The invites and pre-release events of films provide a glimpse of storyline. Publicity is now an expensive business but no one minds,” Mr. Santhanam says.
The trend of sending out expensive invites is, like fashion, a cycle, observes Siddharth, director and creative designer. Invites for films such as Vasool Raja MBBS, which was rolled up and slotted inside a syringe; Vettaiyaadu Vilaiyaadu that was designed as a jigsaw puzzle, letting the invitees to decode the puzzle; and Boys, which came in the shape of Rubik's Cube, were instant hits with the industry.
“The audio launch invitations of yesteryear movies were as much creative as the recent ones. Some years after that, there wasn't much happening as people lost interest. Now we are getting to our roots,” Mr. Siddharth says, calling this a healthy trend.
“It adds value to every movie and brings in more creative minds to work on such interesting things. It makes Tamil film industry refreshingly ingenious.”
http://www.hindu.com/2010/04/29/stories/2010042951760200.htm

ChennaiIndian

May 5th, 2010, 08:48 PM

http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chennai/City-filmmakers-documentary-to-showcase-India-at-Cannes/articleshow/5891312.cms

CHENNAI: While Bollywood stars continue to walk the red carpet at the Cannes International Film Festival, the inaugural on May 13 will see yet another Indian presence. ‘A Different Pilgrimage', a 109-minute documentary by Chennai-based filmmaker S Krishnaswamy will be screened at the India pavilion. And through it, the spiritual inner voice of India — from Valmiki's Ramayana to royal gurus and Buddhists reciting Tamil hymns — will resonate at the Mecca of all film festivals.

“The documentary explores India's impact on South East Asia, which is largely unchartered territory,” says Krishnaswamy, whose earlier documentary, ‘India 5555' was screened for former US president Bill Clinton as part of his pre-India visit orientation. Adding that our knowledge of history, acquired through textbooks, does not venture beyond the export of Buddhism to the region, the filmmaker points to the wide-ranging influence of Indian art, culture, architecture and even rituals on the region.

The current princess of Cambodia recalls the Indian influence dating back to 200 years, ever since king Narodam established the dynasty there, while the royal family guru traces his origins to Chidambaram, the famed temple town in Tamil Nadu, says Krishnaswamy. The sacred and ancient Tamil hymns ‘Thirupaavai' and ‘Thiruvembavai' continue to be recited even today during temple rituals, although Tamil has mutated. Performers invoking pangalay (Lord Nataraja) forms a part of daily rituals, adds the filmmaker who has written, directed and co-produced the documentary.

...

ChennaiIndian

May 8th, 2010, 06:16 AM

http://in.answers.yahoo.com/question/index?qid=20100504213843AAQUQwx

I listened to all the songs...awesome ARR! :cheers::cheers:

ChennaiIndian

May 18th, 2010, 09:22 PM

http://www.indiaglitz.com/channels/tamil/article/57057.html

Director Mani Ratnam will be honoured with ‘Jaeger-LeCoultre Glory to the Filmmaker Award’ at the 67th Venice Film Festival to be held from September 1 to 11 this year. The Venice Film Festival (Italian Mostra Internazionale d'Arte Cinematografica) is the oldest film festival in the world. :cheers:

Announcing this at Cannes, before the launch of Mani Ratnam’s ‘Raavan’, Venice Film Festival director Marco Muller said: “Mani Ratnam is one of the greatest innovators in contemporary Indian cinema. He helped introduce the auteur concept to contemporary Bollywood. We are very proud to honour the work of the great Indian director Mani Ratnam.”

...

Muller added, “Raavan will enchant audiences with its stirring drama and entrancing musical sequences. We are proud to be hosting the festival premiere of this wonderful film, which will be presented at the 2010 Mostra in its both Hindi and Tamil version”.

maduraithala

May 19th, 2010, 10:48 AM

http://www.indiaglitz.com/channels/tamil/article/57057.html

Director Mani Ratnam will be honoured with ‘Jaeger-LeCoultre Glory to the Filmmaker Award’ at the 67th Venice Film Festival to be held from September 1 to 11 this year. The Venice Film Festival (Italian Mostra Internazionale d'Arte Cinematografica) is the oldest film festival in the world. :cheers:....

Finally Indian film-makers are getting their due recognition...Mani Ratnam deserves the praise for taking Indian cinema to the western audiences...He was the first one who started to screen his movies in International film festivals...Now many young directors have started to follow his suit which is
great for the movie's business:banana::banana::cheers:

ChennaiIndian

May 23rd, 2010, 06:35 AM

http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chennai/After-Sura-flops-theatre-owners-ask-Vijay-to-pay-up/articleshow/5964051.cms

CHENNAI: Theatre Owners in Tamil Nadu are demanding that actor Vijay refund a portion of the money they put up for his 50th film, 'Sura'. "We want him to refund at least 40 % of the money we put up as minimum guarantee (MG)," said Tamil Nadu Theatre Owners' Association secretary 'Rohini' Paneerselvam.

"We had paid a huge amount banking on Vijay's reputation and the hype surrounding his 50th film, but collections were not good," Paneerselvam said. On Wednesday, the association will meet with the primary agenda of asking Vijay to follow the footsteps of Rajnikanth and Kamal Haasan and compensate them.

Rajni had refunded the money to theatre owners when his films 'Baaba' and 'Kuselan' bombed, while Kamal set right the losses incurred over 'Hey Ram' and 'Mumbai Express'.

...

Additionally, any collection netted beyond the MG is traditionally shared on a 50- 50 basis by the theatre owner and distributor. Paneerselvam pointed out that in the last few years, barring 'Pokkiri' none of Vijay's films have fared well at the box office. His flops in recent years include Aathi, Azhagiya Tamil Magan, Villu, Kurivi and Vettaikaran. :lol::lol:

gvijayan

May 23rd, 2010, 08:45 AM

^^ There was a very interesting article in Ananda Vikatan, titled 'We miss you, Vijay' for 3 pages. It was very fun to read.

Hope Mr. Vijay (should I say Dr. Vijay?) reads these articles and either changes his way of acting and story selection, or just stops acting.

doccbe

May 23rd, 2010, 09:36 AM

^^

even if he thinks about that sun pictures will not allow. they dominate the market these days and produce only commercials. no creativity.

Arul Murugan

May 23rd, 2010, 09:48 AM

^^

Yup, next sun pics or their extended family pics target is Surya. Ayan, Aadhavan and now Singam all typical masala movies.

doccbe

May 23rd, 2010, 10:02 AM

^^

agreed. they are driving tamil film industry to the past that too at a time when the industry has just started to produce quality shows. (they have a big advertisement advantage)

maduraithala

May 23rd, 2010, 12:30 PM

The thing is the family(sun+red giant+cloud nine) holds 80% of theatres in Tamil Nadu...So, the stars have no option but to act in their movies, or else they won't be getting theatres to screen their movies...If u note, all the 5 top heroes' next movie, is to be produced by one of these 3 companies...

maduraithala

May 23rd, 2010, 05:23 PM

A special screening of the comedy film Kola Kolaya Mundhirika was organised for a group of children undergoing treatment for cancer, here on Friday. As an added bonanza, actor Kamal Haasan joined the youngsters during the show.

Kamal Haasan made a sudden appearance much to the delight of the children, who squealed on seeing him. After a brief photo session with the children, the actor said comedy was a serious business and comedy as a genre is quite challenging.

Cancer was just another disease and it should be fought with confidence, he told the children. Wishing them recovery, he said laughter would help them forget the painful therapies they undergo.

Kola Kolaya Mundhirika producers Trisakti Sundar Raman and Nalini Sundar Raman promised to give the first day collections of film, which was released on Friday, for children with cancer.

“We had a special screening for children with mental and physical disabilities for our previous project Vallamai Tharayo. It is a gratifying experience to watch the film with such kids and see them forgetting the struggle they undergo,” said the film's director Madhumita.

Screenplay-dialogue writer ‘Crazy' Mohan and actor Karthik Kumar took part in the event, which was coordinated by Mahesh Memorial Trust.

http://www.thehindu.com/2010/05/23/stories/2010052362390600.htm

ChennaiIndian

May 25th, 2010, 04:07 AM

http://www.hindu.com/2010/05/25/stories/2010052559220200.htm

Franco-Australian movie ‘Tree' to be a key attraction

CHENNAI: The eighth edition of the Chennai International Film Festival, slated for December this year, will have a lot of Cannes flavour in it.

The festival will feature at least seven films that were selected for the competition category in the Cannes International Film Festival, which ended on May 23. The film festival, being hosted by the Indo-Cine Appreciation Foundation (ICAF), will get support from the South Indian Film Chamber of Commerce.

Bigger this year

Set to get bigger this year, the nine-day festival is all set to get more screens in multiplexes. The number of films to be screened will also see an increase. The Franco-Australian movie ‘Tree,' which was the closing film at Cannes, will be one of the key attractions this year, said Chennai International Film Festival director C.Thangaraj.

Films such as ‘Housemaid,' ‘Outrage' and ‘Chongqing Blues' that made waves in Cannes will be part of the Chennai festival. This year's festival will have an Indian pavilion with internationally acclaimed films such as ‘Women with a Turban' and ‘Kurukshetra' lined up for screening. Best of Hindi films and much-acclaimed Tamil movies will also be shortlisted for screening.

“South Pacific countries will dominate this year's festival with more films. Iran will be the ‘Country in Focus.' We are starting a new Latin American section and bringing in some of the best movies from the country,” Mr.Thangaraj said.

Screeners of 22 films from Turkey and 14 Iranian films have been obtained by ICAF from the distributors and film institutes that got together in Cannes.

“Filmmakers from countries such as Turkey and Iran are keen to send across DVDs of their films for the festival. They see this as an attempt to promote their countries' culture and tourism through the medium of film,” he said.

While film institutes of various countries give out screeners free as a promotional measure, procuring some of the best-made films for the festival is an expensive affair. With Rs.50 lakh being fixed as the budget for this year's film festival, ICAF has begun its fund mobilisation initiatives and will approach the State government shortly for sponsorship.

...

satishanu

May 25th, 2010, 04:48 PM

Singapore Tamilians are all set to make a mark in Kollywood with their creative products. In the process Singapore based J K Saravana and G Kaly of Tantra Films are coming with a film ‘Pickles!’ which is a full length comedy in Tanglish (Tamil-English).

Singaporean Karthikeyan Somasundaram (‘Uncle Taxi!’ Series), Leasha Sonam (Bantham), Nagharaj (Un Matham Aaguthadi), Saravanan Ayyavoo (Vasantham Star), Udhaya (Vasantham Star, Dhool), V Saravanan, Mageswaran, Rebekah Samuel and other stars try their hands in a feature film for the first time. Singaporean Celebrities such as Kumar, Vadi PVSS and many others play guest roles.

This film is targeting the International Tamil audience across the world including Tamils in India. The director says the film has all the ingredients to appeal all Tamils alike.

‘Pickles!’ marks the directorial debut of J K Saravana who won the SICCI- DBS Young Entrepreneur of the Year Award in 2009. Hailed as the youngest producer in the Kollywood scene for the blockbuster hit, ‘Chennai 60028’.

Mohd Noor, a popular Asian percussionist and music director is composing the background score and a few songs for the film’s soundtrack. The post-production of this film is being done at Soundarya Rajinikanth’s Ocher Studios.

This much anticipated film is scheduled to hit theatre screens worldwide in early August 2010.

Source: http://www.indiaglitz.com/channels/tamil/article/57264.html

maduraithala

May 25th, 2010, 07:30 PM

If reports are to be believed, Vadivelu would be entering politics following Kushboo. Sources say that the comedian may join the DMK. It is important to note that Vadivelu had openly challenged Vijayakanth that he would contest the elections in whichever constituency the latter chooses to contest. With the state elections round the corner, there are widespread speculations that Vadivelu may join the DMK to contest the elections for a safe win.

http://www.behindwoods.com/tamil-movie-news-1/may-10-04/vadivelu-kushboo-25-05-10.html

ChennaiIndian

May 25th, 2010, 07:58 PM

ChennaiIndian

May 30th, 2010, 10:04 PM

http://www.deccanchronicle.com/chennai/kollywood-declares-war-iifa-awards-117

May 29: The south Indian film industry has announced boycott of the 11th International Indian Film Academy (IIFA) awards in Colombo, saying it would be unthinkable to participate in gala ceremony happening in a country accused of genocide of Tamils. Appealing to the Bollywood stars and technicians to fall in line with the boycott decision, president C. Kalyan of the South Indian Film Chamber of Commerce (SIFCC) said if anyone chose to participate in the IIFA awards ignoring the Tamil sentiments, “no exhibitor in the south will screen their films and this is a unanimous decision.”

The SIFCC along with a whole lot of other south Indian film industry unions held a meeting here late Friday and said while they were not against the IIFA awards, “we are only opposing it happening in the blood-stained Sri Lanka.” It was also resolved that no south Indian film shootings would take place in Sri Lanka.

...

ChennaiIndian

May 30th, 2010, 10:05 PM

http://www.hindu.com/2010/05/31/stories/2010053157190400.htm

http://www.hindu.com/2010/05/31/images/2010053157190401.jpg

CHENNAI: ‘Pasanga' bagged the most number of awards at the fourth UniverCell Vijay Awards 2009 function at a star-studded gathering here on Saturday.

It won five awards in different categories, providing a jubilant moment for the entire team that went on stage to receive the ‘Best Crew' award. Child artists Kishore and Sriram enacted an action scene from the movie to a resounding applause from the full house at Jawaharlal Nehru Indoor Stadium.

They received the ‘Best Child Artiste' award for their performance in the film.

While director Pandiraj won the ‘Best Find of the Year' for ‘Pasanga,' actor Vimal got the ‘Best Newcomer' (male) award from Member of Parliament Kanimozhi. Jayaprakash was declared the ‘Best Supporting Actor' (male) for the same movie.

The speech and hearing impaired actor Abinaya received a standing ovation for her performance in ‘Nadodigal.' She bagged the ‘Best Supporting Actor' (female) award.

Favourite category awards chosen by Vijay TV viewers were presented under five categories.

Actors Vijay and Anushka won the Favourite Hero and Favourite Heroine awards for their performance in ‘Vettaikaran.' ‘Ayan' starred by Suriya was chosen as Favourite Film and the Favourite Song of the Year 2009 went to ‘Oru Chinnathamarai.' Director Samuthrakani received the Favourite Director Award.

Among the 27 categories chosen by jury members, actors Prakashraj and Pooja won the Best Actor and Best Actress awards for films ‘Kancheevaram' and ‘Naan Kadavul' respectively.

Bala bagged the Best Director award for ‘Naan Kadavul'. ‘Nadodigal' was chosen as the best film of 2009.

...

karthikarthik

May 31st, 2010, 05:15 AM

Received a mail yesterday...have little fun

TAMIL HERO'S NEXT FILM TITLES:

RAJINI:

ROBO, REMOTE CAR, PLANE, BATTERY TRAIN, JET.

VIJAYAKANTH:

DHARMAPURI, SALEM , ERODE, NAMAKKAL, THOOTHUKUDI, MAYILADUTHURAI

VIJAY:

VILLU, AMBU, KATHI, KABADA, KAMBU.

AJITH:

ASAL, NAGAL, ORIGINAL, XEROX, COLOUR XEROX ,BLACK AND WHITE .

SURYA:

VARANAM AYIRAM, THORANAM RENDAYIRAM, POORANAM MOOVAYIRAM, PANJAVARNAM NAALAYIRAM.

SIMBU:

SILAMBATTAM, PULIYATTAM, KARAKATTAM, KUYILATTAM, MAYILATTAM,PAMBUATTAM.

JEEVA:

E, KOSU, ERUMBU, KARAPPAN POOCHI, MANPUZHU,NAYAE,PAYAEE.

VISHAL:

SATHYAM, WIPRO,INFOSYS,TCS,HCL.

BHARATH:

SEVAL, PURA, VAATHU, MAINA.

SERAN:

RAMAN THEDIYA SEETHAI, ANUMAN THEDIYA SEETHAI, RAVANAN KADATHIYA SEETHAI.

NAGUL:

KADHALIL VIZHUNTHEAN, BIKELA VIZHUN THEAN, RODULAE VIZHUNTHEAN, KEELA VIZHUNTHEAN,DITCHILLA VIZHUNTHEAN

JEEVAN:

THOTTA, BULLET, REVOLVER, RIFFLE.

VIKRAM:

KANDHASWAMY, KARRUPASWAMY, KUPPUSWAMY, KULANTHAISWAMY.

DHANUSH:

PADIKAADHAVAN, MUTTAL, THARUTHALA.

AARYA,

NAAN KADAVUL, NAAN PEAI, NAAN ARAKKAN, NAAN EMAN

JAYAM RAVI:

SOMETHING SOMETHING, NOTHING NOTHING, EVERYTHING EVERYTHING, ANYTHING ANYTHING

NAREN:

5 ATHEY, 6 ATHEY, 7ATHEY, 8ATHEY

SARATHKUMAR,

1977, 1976, 1975, 1974, 1973

SJ SURIYA,

NEWTON'S 3 LAW, PASCAL'S LAW, HOOKE'S LAW, SHAKILA

MADHAVAN,

GURU YEN AALLU, PRIYA UN AALLU, NAMITHA YEN AALLU

SAANTHANU:

SAKKARAIKATTI, UPPUKATTI, SUNNAAMBU KATTI,

ceeznic pirate

May 31st, 2010, 06:28 AM

^^

really good... thank god kamal is missed :lol:

Anniyan

June 2nd, 2010, 05:32 PM

^^

really good... thank god kamal is missed :lol:

Manmadhan Anbu, Manmadhan Vambu, Manmadhan Kambu...

Leo_r

June 2nd, 2010, 07:53 PM

I like this song...

http://youtube.com/watch?v=ifFgOYvktFg

ChennaiIndian

June 4th, 2010, 05:52 PM

http://www.hindu.com/2010/06/04/stories/2010060462580200.htm

http://www.hindu.com/2010/06/04/images/2010060462580201.jpg

CHENNAI: Kamal Haasan is back on humour track. His next film ‘Manmadhan Ambu' will retain the flavours of the actor's blockbuster romantic comedies sparkling with wit and humour and yet will be different from his other projects in more ways than one.

Kamal Haasan, who is pairing up with Trisha in the film, said the cast, including Madhavan and Sangeetha, was a strong support for the movie and they promptly turn up for rehearsals.

“I have always insisted on continuous rehearsals before any shooting begins. Theatre artists make a flawless performance on stage with their meticulous rehearsals. Film actors should also get into the practice of rehearsals as they save time and money,” he told mediapersons here on Thursday. The actor was tight-lipped about the south Indian film industry's tiff with Bollywood actors attending the IIFA.

...

ChennaiIndian

June 4th, 2010, 05:53 PM

http://www.hindu.com/2010/06/04/stories/2010060459230200.htm

Bunch of films made in Tamil, Telugu, Hindi to be released simultaneously

http://www.hindu.com/2010/06/04/images/2010060459230201.jpg

CHENNAI: This year has been significant for Kollywood filmmakers in more ways than one. Apart from successfully experimenting with some never-tried-before genres, they also laid emphasis on making multi-lingual films.

A bunch of films were made in Tamil, Telugu and Hindi and released simultaneously. Producers redefined the boundaries and realised that markets are not all about Chennai and tier-two and three-tier cities in the State.

The trend is only expected to gather momentum further as four movies, to be released one after another in quick succession, will draw the attention of Tamil, Telugu and Hindi film lovers alike.

The much-talked-about among them is Mani Ratnam's Raavanan ( Raavan in Hindi) that will be dubbed into Telugu. The film, which will see a simultaneous release in Bollywood, Kollywood and Tollywood, is expected to be a big draw, given the mythological storyline it is based on.

Following Raavanan will be Ram Gopal Varma's Rakthacharithra, a movie primarily made in Hindi, with Suriya and Vivek Oberoi as lead actors. The film, to be dubbed in Tamil and Telugu, is being promoted across the three States. A.R. Murugadoss, who made Ghajini a box-office hit in both Tamil and Hindi, is coming up with a tri-lingual film ‘Ezhaam Arivu' with Suriya in the lead.

Last month, the promotional initiatives of Vivek Oberoi's action-thriller Prince created buzz. Media interactions with the actor were organised in several places of the State, including Tiruchi and Madurai. Though the film bombed at the box-office, it took Bollywood actors to the screens of smaller cities.

G. Dhananjayan, film chronicler and Chief Executive Officer, Moser Baer Entertainment, says success of such across-the-state releases depends entirely on the cast and storyline.

“ Raavan is an economically smart project. Mani Ratnam has chosen appropriate cast for Tamil and Hindi versions and shot it simultaneously to shrink the budget,” he explains. While projects such as Raavan might work, Prince, he said, was “failed concept.” With Vivek Oberoi being entirely new to the Tamil audience, introducing him through an action-thriller did not help, despite the wide-spread publicity drive.

“ Rakthacharithra will succeed if it appeals to the sentiments to Tamil audience. Suriya is a key marketing factor for the film,” he said.

...

ChennaiIndian

June 4th, 2010, 05:55 PM

^^ After dubbing almost all Tamil films (hit ones and those of big actors) of recent times to Telugu, the producers are offering a 'quality thing' to the Telugu audience by making a release in that language directly instead of dubbing. :lol:

sudheeshnairs

June 4th, 2010, 09:39 PM

Isn't that actor 'Prithviraj'?

Who all are the actors in Ravanan?

http://www.hindu.com/2010/06/04/images/2010060459230201.jpg

The much-talked-about among them is Mani Ratnam's Raavanan ( Raavan in Hindi) that will be dubbed into Telugu. The film, which will see a simultaneous release in Bollywood, Kollywood and Tollywood, is expected to be a big draw, given the mythological storyline it is based on.

doccbe

June 4th, 2010, 09:45 PM

yes. i think abishek does the role of vikram in hindi and vikram does the role of prithviraj in hindi version. not sure about others

rajii

June 5th, 2010, 09:43 AM

chennaidesi

June 5th, 2010, 08:56 PM

^^In Hindi version it is Abhi,Aish and Vikram(villian)
In Tamil Vikram,Aish and Prithiviraj(villian)

rajii

June 6th, 2010, 09:59 AM

is the concept of movie irrumbu kottai murattu singam reached to peoples?? frnds tell about ur views..

ChennaiIndian

June 10th, 2010, 01:09 AM

^^ IKMS is a good attempt to bring in the cow-boy culture back to Tamil cinema after some many decades. However, only people who have seen Cowboy and Indiana Jones movies of the Hollywood can understand some of scenes, comedy etc. Also, the seriousness associated with those genre of movies have been taken out and comedy has been attempted.

Some scenes have been completely ripped from those movies particularly the yester-year Indiana Jones movies.

Most part of the comedy didn't make me laugh out loud mainly because we have seen similar comedy situations and dialogues in Chimbudevan's early movies like Pulikesi and Arai En 305 etc. :ohno: It was the timing in some places that was funny. :)

It was boring beyond a point. :(

ChennaiIndian

June 10th, 2010, 01:11 AM

http://www.indiaglitz.com/channels/tamil/article/57591.html

The love story between Karthik and Jessie has touched 100 days. The mellifluous love story made grand by Gautham Vasudev Menon with utmost simplicity is the reliever of the year.

Industry rejoices as it is the first major hit of the year and Gautham even more and he feels it is a "real hit". Repeat, "real hit". His advertisement says it comprehensively.

‘VTV’ celebrates 100 days even in Bangalore and Thiruvananthapuram which a worthy news to spread.

Trisha who spoke to her online friends has said “VTV is a film closest to my heart.” Couple of days ago we even reported Silambarasan throwing a party to his close friend to celebrate the 100 days of ‘VTV’.

...

saysenthil

June 10th, 2010, 10:44 AM

rajii

June 10th, 2010, 06:40 PM

@chennaiindian

the main concept of movie is leadership of USA, i asked about that only is that concept is reached our peoples?

ChennaiIndian

June 10th, 2010, 07:47 PM

^^ "the main concept of movie is leadership of USA" :nuts: - neenga enna solreenganu puriyala.

ChennaiIndian

June 10th, 2010, 09:31 PM

Guys, do you know about the blog written by director Shankar?? If not have a look....

http://www.directorshankaronline.com/

Thats where u have a chance to directly speak with director Shankar himself....

Thanks for the link nanba! :cheers:

Taken from that blog...

Endhiran is the first Indian movie to use Stanwinston Studio’s Animatronics technology. We all are proud and happy to be associated with No.1 Hollywood studio who did a great job in movies like Jurassic Park, Predator, Terminator, Ironman and the recent Avatar. :banana::banana::banana:

Nammaalu singamlae. :horse:

rajii

June 11th, 2010, 09:20 AM

^^ "the main concept of movie is leadership of USA" :nuts: - neenga enna solreenganu puriyala.

antha paduthu la amricans'oda arajagatha pathi solirupangale athu makkaluku poi serducha?

ChennaiIndian

June 11th, 2010, 04:24 PM

^^ Apadi yedhuvum andha padathula sollala. Even if they had told, I can't figure out anything.

Arasu

June 11th, 2010, 05:59 PM

antha paduthu la amricans'oda arajagatha pathi solirupangale athu makkaluku poi serducha?

panamum balamum irukkiravan seyyara arajakaththa vaedikka thaan paarkka mudiyum.

rajii

June 12th, 2010, 05:44 PM

^^ Apadi yedhuvum andha padathula sollala. Even if they had told, I can't figure out anything.

irrumbu kottoi'yoda name ah U.S.A puram nu tane vachirupanga, appuram annu aiyutha oppantham yallam sollirupanga.. intha view'oda intha padatha partha nalla enjoy panalam

saysenthil

June 17th, 2010, 01:28 PM

Mani Ratnam's Raavan is blazing a new trail for Indian cinema even while it is two days away from its release.

In the first place, the film has been shot simultaneously in Hindi and Tamil with a Telugu-dubbed version, Villain, thrown in for good measure. Vikram, who plays the hero in the Hindi version, opts for the darker shade in Raavanan. Aishwarya Rai is common to both language offerings while real life hubby, Abhishek confines his presence to Raavan.

The bigger story though is how the distributors, Reliance Big Pictures, and exhibitors have been straddling the Hindi and Tamil versions (and Telugu, of course) to ensure a simultaneous big-bang release on Friday.

“We are releasing the Hindi, Tamil and Telugu offerings simultaneously in 2,200 screens on Friday. It is a planned distribution strategy to reach the audience in an organised and focused manner,” said Mr Sanjeev Lamba, CEO, Reliance Big pictures.

“The Tamil version will not just be restricted to Tamil Nadu but will also play out in Mumbai, Delhi and Kolkata which have a sizeable Tamil-speaking audience. In some southern centres, we are releasing all three versions together,” he added.

Mr Devang Sampat, President, Marketing and Sales, Cinemax, is upbeat on Raavanan, the Tamil version. “Last week, we had released Suriya's Singam across a few properties in Mumbai and the film did pretty well,” he said.

Multiplex operators such as PVR, Cinemax and Big cinemas are also planning to capitalise on the growing popularity of regional cinema. Most of them had asked Reliance Big for the Tamil version with English subtitles for cities such as Mumbai, Delhi, Ahmedabad, Pune, Nashik, Surat, Vadodara and Kolkata.

“There is always a strong buzz around a Mani Ratnam offering,” said a multiplex official. Anjali (1990), Roja (1992) and Bombay (1995), which were smash hits in Tamil, were subsequently dubbed in Hindi, Telugu and Malayalam. His directorial debut in Hindi with Dil Se (1998) was also dubbed in Tamil and Telugu while Alaipayuthey (2000) was remade in Hindi as Saathiya (2002) by debutante director Shaad Ali. Yuva (2004) was remade and shot subsequently as Aayutha Ezhuthu (Tamil) while Guru (2007) was dubbed in Tamil and Telugu.

Last week, Mani Ratnam had said at a press conference on Raavan that the film “remains the same in terms of context and spirit, but it has a certain rootedness in Tamil that's not there in the Hindi version – it is the small nuances that are different The idea is to get you to watch both versions and decide for yourselves.”

http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/2010/06/17/stories/2010061752750500.htm

satishanu

June 18th, 2010, 03:42 PM

Anyone seen Raavan or Raavanan movie yet? If so, how is it?

reswaran

June 20th, 2010, 04:26 PM

Anyone seen Raavan or Raavanan movie yet? If so, how is it?

2.5 stars for Raavanan. Mani should come up with more gripping and realistic screenplay.

karthikarthik

June 20th, 2010, 04:41 PM

Ravanan is a remake of Ramayan. The characterization of Karthik is stupid one(wasted an artist). Music by ARR in the songs is good but he should concentrate in Re-recording(very poor not able listen dialogue properly). Performance of Aish and Vikram is damn good. Screenplay and dialogue below average.

Too much hype and Maniratnam failed to deliver the promises..

My rating would be 2.5 out of 5

saysenthil

June 20th, 2010, 05:39 PM

I saw the movie yesterday here in Hamburg (Germany)!! I would certainly give this 4.5 out of 5. One of the best movies seen in the recent times.... Words are not enough to describe the tech aspects of the film. Really a stunning visuals!!
This was mixed with a revetting screenplay. Ofcourse people knew the story. I am not giving 5 out 5 due to the predictability of the story (climax).

Now coming to the lead artists, especially the top 3 .... were right on their top. Especially Ash.... wat a commitment.... She could have easily told I cant.... Such was the toughness. But she outdone all her previous performances.... And always u have Vikram.... Can anyone doubt his ability.... He was really good....
Prithvi..... His performance was certainly noticeable... Due to the screenplay, his part is little less. Otherwise.... he was a GOOD choice....

Another important aspect was the MUSIC.... Woooooooow!! Scintillating BGM. Simply mind blowing.... I guess AR would have spent 2 times more time for BGM than for the song music.

But finally to get all these aspects correct... u need to have the one & only Mani. How come u have such a camera + Music + Art direction + Stunt + top performances without the thought of one person namely Mani.... Certainly u have the STAMP of him through out.....

For more info... have a look at

http://beta.thehindu.com/arts/cinema/article474237.ece?homepage=true

&

http://beta.thehindu.com/arts/cinema/article473984.ece

^^ ... these guys dont write their review for money!!!

So please go & do grab ur ticket!!! Its worth it!!

(Always go for a movie without expectations please!!!)

satishanu

June 20th, 2010, 06:34 PM

I watched the hindi version of the movie and liked it.

There are many subtle hidden dimensions in the movie.

Core dimension being Epic ramayana (downfall is certain for someone eyeing other person's spouse even if one is too powerful).

sampath1986

June 20th, 2010, 08:21 PM

Raavanan certainly not a fantastic movie......

How can one say a movie is fantastic, if it is completely predictable....Added to that some of the characterizations where pathetic to say the least, specially karthicks character.... Unusually lot of logic where missing in a mani rathnam movie....

My biggest disappointment was the placement of usurey poghuthey song..... completely wasted.....

On the whole the mani rathnam touch was missing in many places.... I would say its Roja part II and nothing special about it....

would give only 2 out of 5, that too for the world class cinematography and art direction.....

I saw the movie yesterday here in Hamburg (Germany)!! I would certainly give this 4.5 out of 5. One of the best movies seen in the recent times.... Words are not enough to describe the tech aspects of the film. Really a stunning visuals!!
This was mixed with a revetting screenplay. Ofcourse people knew the story. I am not giving 5 out 5 due to the predictability of the story (climax).

Now coming to the lead artists, especially the top 3 .... were right on their top. Especially Ash.... wat a commitment.... She could have easily told I cant.... Such was the toughness. But she outdone all her previous performances.... And always u have Vikram.... Can anyone doubt his ability.... He was really good....
Prithvi..... His performance was certainly noticeable... Due to the screenplay, his part is little less. Otherwise.... he was a GOOD choice....

Another important aspect was the MUSIC.... Woooooooow!! Scintillating BGM. Simply mind blowing.... I guess AR would have spent 2 times more time for BGM than for the song music.

But finally to get all these aspects correct... u need to have the one & only Mani. How come u have such a camera + Music + Art direction + Stunt + top performances without the thought of one person namely Mani.... Certainly u have the STAMP of him through out.....

For more info... have a look at

http://beta.thehindu.com/arts/cinema/article474237.ece?homepage=true

&

http://beta.thehindu.com/arts/cinema/article473984.ece

^^ ... these guys dont write their review for money!!!

So please go & do grab ur ticket!!! Its worth it!!

(Always go for a movie without expectations please!!!)

ChennaiIndian

June 20th, 2010, 10:22 PM

reswaran

June 21st, 2010, 06:21 AM

Watched Angaadi Theru today. The film is a nice portrayal of the happenings in the lives of people working in the congested textile showrooms in Raganathan street in T.Nagar. It depicts Saravana Stores to the core. I still remember how my beloved T.Nagar was hijacked by them in the late 80s. They introduced the concept of 'cheap stuff' and craved a niche low-price customer base. They ate up Usman Road, Raganathan street, Ramanathan street etc. forcing residents to give up their houses for setting up their shops/hotels/parking lots etc.

To a large extent, the same trauma is also shared by the folks in other unorganized sectors in India.

Coming back to the movie, the direction, editing, comedy, lyrics etc. are good. The actors have done a fantastic job. It is because of the immense tragedy portrayed in the movie, many may not like it.

True, after watching movies like veyil, angaadi theru, paruthi veeran, vennila kabadi kuzhu....you feel mani's Raavanan is not realisitic - a hard core Mani fan.

R2IChennai

June 21st, 2010, 06:34 AM

Watched Angaadi Theru today. The film is a nice portrayal of the happenings in the lives of people working in the congested textile showrooms in Raganathan street in T.Nagar. It depicts Saravana Stores to the core. I still remember how my beloved T.Nagar was hijacked by them in the late 80s. They introduced the concept of 'cheap stuff' and craved a niche low-price customer base. They ate up Usman Road, Raganathan street, Ramanathan street etc. forcing residents to give up their houses for setting up their shops/hotels/parking lots etc.

To a large extent, the same trauma is also shared by the folks in other unorganized sectors in India.

Coming back to the movie, the direction, editing, comedy, lyrics etc. are good. The actors have done a fantastic job. It is because of the immense tragedy portrayed in the movie, many may not like it.

Angadi theru was good but it had portrayed upper or upper middle class with negativness through out the movie and I felt something bad is going to happen for every scene ( i thought the heroine's sister will be raped by maimi's old husband after blossoming/ this guy will get killed after the heroine loosing her leg, hero's mom will get some major illness) i just felt it that way.

saysenthil

June 21st, 2010, 12:54 PM

Raavanan certainly not a fantastic movie......

How can one say a movie is fantastic, if it is completely predictable....Added to that some of the characterizations where pathetic to say the least, specially karthicks character.... Unusually lot of logic where missing in a mani rathnam movie....

My biggest disappointment was the placement of usurey poghuthey song..... completely wasted.....

On the whole the mani rathnam touch was missing in many places.... I would say its Roja part II and nothing special about it....

would give only 2 out of 5, that too for the world class cinematography and art direction.....

Sampath, I never told that the movie was 100% predictable. But what i told was the last 5 minutes of the movie. Well I do accept the fact that there are few flaws. But I was seeing the bigger picture. Did u have to note one point that I have mentioned in the end. I went with 0 expectations. But u have gone as a BIG MANI fan. Let me tell you.... This is difference of why the film is for me fantastic & for you mediocre....

For me already this is a huge step in interpreting Ramayana in a different way.
That was one of the key reason for me to tell that the screenplay was different. And added to it comes the undeniable fact of picture perfect cimetography, Music, Art work + lead characters performance. Wat else do u want? That was the driving force in giving max marks.....

Arguably this will never going to end as the best Mani sir film.... But it will certainly remain as one of the most toughest film that he has ever made...
Common yaaar...... encourage their effort!!!

(I have this rejoinder not for arguement sake... But just to make my point across!!! But always opinion differs!! )

Arul Murugan

June 21st, 2010, 03:08 PM

ChennaiIndian

June 21st, 2010, 05:14 PM

Angadi theru was good but it had portrayed upper or upper middle class with negativness through out the movie and I felt something bad is going to happen for every scene ( i thought the heroine's sister will be raped by maimi's old husband after blossoming/ this guy will get killed after the heroine loosing her leg, hero's mom will get some major illness) i just felt it that way.

You are a candidate to the next big villian in Tamil cinema and/or masala film writer (mostly Vijay movies). :lol::lol::lol:

Fusionist

June 21st, 2010, 05:18 PM

I didn't see Ravanan movie, but yet saw many reviews. How come RSS/VHP or Inthu makkal katchi organization/parties have not yet tourched any of the theaters so far for showing Ramayana is twisted/ugly way. Is Priyamani going to get another national award? :nuts:

possibly because in the film, Raavan is also a Hindu and talks of local dieties and does a lot of social service ? The film certainly is not anti-Hindu but more of a reverse roled film, and there is nothing anti-Hindu in it, as far as I can see.

Brand coimbatore

June 21st, 2010, 08:04 PM

I felt ravanan was a good one, if u dont go with expectations. As everyone said cinematography was awesome. Personally i felt tamil version is better due to the acting of vikram in the lead role.

R2IChennai

June 22nd, 2010, 01:43 AM

You are a candidate to the next big villian in Tamil cinema and/or masala film writer (mostly Vijay movies). :lol::lol::lol:

Cmond dude accept that movie was totally negative!!
anyways i will anyday accept either of the both (first one is little hard i am not a big built guy, 2nd one is very easy all i had to is watch vijay's last movie and change the heroine, villain, music director and names, namma software copy paste vida easy_

madurai veeran

June 22nd, 2010, 06:17 AM

possibly because in the film, Raavan is also a Hindu and talks of local dieties and does a lot of social service ? The film certainly is not anti-Hindu but more of a reverse roled film, and there is nothing anti-Hindu in it, as far as I can see.

I think in some parts of TN Raavanan is worshipped and the Kamba Ramayanam version actually says highly of Raavanan in some instances except for his mistake of kidnapping Sita. Also in TN there is this anti aryan feeling which is also reflected in the way we perceive the Ramayanam. In many scenes in the movie they speak of skin color may be to reflect the Aryan - Dravidian divide in Ramayanam. I won't be surprised if the movie does well in Tamil and not in Hindi.

I saw the movie today and liked it. They could have done a better job with the dialogues which sound artificial at times. Vikram and Ash have done a very good job.

Arasu

June 23rd, 2010, 03:21 AM

^^ I thought the same about dialogues too. But then every one else is speaking in their own accents. I couldn't place the location the movie was taking place. We have seen in many movies, one can clearly tell the Madras, Madurai, Coimbatore accents all along. This one seemed to be cacophony of accents.

Marathaman

June 23rd, 2010, 03:26 AM

Wasn't Ravana a Brahmin? :dunno: Also please stop this Aryan-Dravidian stuff. That's just racial politics.

There are places in India where Ravana is worshipped btw - Kakinada, Vidisha, Alwar, Mandodari, Mandore etc. etc.

Arul Murugan

June 23rd, 2010, 04:14 AM

satishanu

June 24th, 2010, 07:37 PM

All-rounder actor and south star Kamal Haasan will be honoured in Delhi soon.

According to reports a 3-day film festival titled ‘Retrospective of Kamal Haasan Films’ will be held in the capital from July 2nd till July 4th. :cheers:

The festival will be will be inaugurated by Union Information and Broadcasting Minister Ambika Soni at Siri Fort Auditorium.

Some of the popular works of the actor will be showcased here.

The festival will open with the screening of Kamal’s Hindi film ‘Hey Ram’.

In the course of the festival, his Tamil films namely ‘Anbe Sivam’, ‘Virumaandy’, ‘Thevar Magan’, ‘Dasavatharam’ and ‘Nayagan’ and one Telugu film ‘Sagar Sangamam’ will be screened.

Source: http://www.indiaglitz.com/channels/hindi/article/58086.html

satishanu

June 24th, 2010, 07:41 PM

Mani Ratnam’s latest ‘Raavan’ may not be clear to the common audience but connoisseurs of quality cinema had lapped this up. It might be boring for so called new age critics whose understanding of cinema is limited up to ‘Housefull’ and are awed by underwater shots of a film like ‘Blue’; who have no idea or don’t accept the fact that cinema is also a medium that tells a story of the prevalent times and it’s a mirror image.

Genius filmmakers have reflections of the society in their cinema and Mani’s ‘Raavan’ is the interpretation of ‘Ramayana in today’s times, many have not accepted that Ramayana can be told in such a way and their ignorance is finding unreasonable reasons for their lack of understanding.

Mani says, “Everybody has the right to express his opinion, Amitji should have conveyed me whatever he wanted to say, he has my cell no, anyways am bothered about the opinions of the rasikas and rasikas everywhere had appreciated it.”

Yes we agree, with Mani ‘Raavan’ is a movie which tells how Indian cinema should be by tomorrow.

The movie is brilliant in every aspects and the editing is top class.

It’s high time that Bollywood & its ipod generation critics need to grow up asap.

http://www.indiaglitz.com/channels/hindi/article/58043.html

Nice Article about the movie Raavan.

ChennaiIndian

June 28th, 2010, 09:59 PM

http://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Chennai/article490718.ece

What happens when the much-hyped films of top-slot actors bomb at the box-office? Producers run the risk of heavy financial losses, while theatre-owners say that, with their livelihood closely linked to the fate of each film, the failures make them have a relook at their business strategies.

While there is not much that the theatres on their own can do to promote a film, what is within the grasp of the cinema owners is the ability to lure audiences by providing new facilities.

For various reasons, Chennai has been a witness to fast-disappearing theatres that were once celebrated for screening blockbusters. Owners of some of the theatres, who were able to see the writing on the wall, quickly went for a makeover of the facilities. Moving away from the single screen concept, a few opted for multi-screens and malls at the same location.

According to industry sources, a string of much-hyped films not faring up to expectations is only bound to fuel this trend further as production costs of movies with top slot actors soar.

Vijay-starrer ‘Sura' is one such film that saw theatre-owners demanding compensation for their financial losses.

Apart from triggering voices of protest, it also again turned the spotlight on the demand of theatre owners for a more realistic pricing of the films.
Distribution prices

R. Ramanujam, a member of the Tamil Nadu Theatre Owners Association, says the distribution prices for big-banner films are fixed based on 100 per cent occupancy in every theatre. “But on an average, the theatres only have 35 per cent occupancy. There are nearly 1,000 theatres in the State. Every single theatre suffers huge losses because of this,” he says.

While multiplexes make profits by their value-added services such as food court and game zones, single-screen theatres are the ones that are severely hit. “Providing free drinking water facility in theatres is mandatory as per government norms. But most of the multiplexes flout the rule and sell packaged drinking water at a premium. They are left with no options as the films, as such, earn no profit,” Mr. Ramanujam says.

As an administrator of a multiplex puts it: “Weekends are the only time when the occupancy is high. We run with 15 per cent occupancy on other days. Maintenance cost is also more for multiplexes than for single-screen theatres.”

The TN Theatre Owners Association has decided to approach the government to urge the film industry to bring down the production cost.

“By cutting down the production expenses, the rate of films would come down. A few lakh rupees less spent on each film could save our livelihood,” association secretary ‘Trichy' Sridhar says.

...

rajii

July 10th, 2010, 06:00 AM

matharasapatinam its simply superb movie... we can say its "tamil titanic" kollywood lovers dont miss it in screen..........

saysenthil

July 10th, 2010, 10:31 AM

^^

Its good to know that we have such a wide variety of movies (different genres) available in Tamil film industry. There was some opinion that its just a mix of titanic & lagaan. Well, who is going to complain as long as a good movie is there to watch.... Hope i am going to see in the near future.

By the by for the folks here few links about Madarasapatinam,

http://www.madrasapattinam.com/

Reviews:
http://www.indiaglitz.com/channels/tamil/review/10889.html
http://www.behindwoods.com/tamil-movie-reviews/reviews-2/madharasapattinam-movie-review.html
http://movies.rediff.com/report/2010/jul/09/south-review-of-madharasapattinam.htm
http://sify.com/movies/tamil/review.php?id=14948797&ctid=5&cid=2429

Enjoy the movie!!!

-------------------------

I also heard that 2 other movies once again with completely different story lines are pretty good.... They are S film's "anadhapurthu veedu" & "Kalavani".
Has someone seen the movie??

Arasu

July 12th, 2010, 07:25 PM

matharasapatinam its simply superb movie... we can say its "tamil titanic" kollywood lovers dont miss it in screen..........

Based on your recommendation, I watched the movie yesterday and I liked it.

That was big thing for me as I had a gap of nearly two years between my last Tamil film 'Ravanan' and the one before that 'Dasavatharam'.

Hope, they make such good movies without much nonsense such as fights, dancing with the whole village idiots, sub-plots, dream sequence, etc.

ChennaiIndian

July 12th, 2010, 09:36 PM

http://www.thehindu.com/news/article510816.ece

http://www.thehindu.com/multimedia/dynamic/00142/ARV_MGR_2_142731f.jpg

The district that had produced some of the greatest artists and musicians of the country is honouring its yet another great son, the well known silver screen icon 'Makkal Thilakam’ and the late Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu M.G. Ramachandran by constructing a memorial for him in his ancestral village of Vadavannur in Chittur taluk, 15 km from Palakkad.

The memorial – a Community Hall – constructed by the Vadavannur Grama Panchayat will be inaugurated by Union Minister of State for Home Mullappally Ramachandran on Monday.

The ancestral house of MGR ’s mother Sathyabhama is nearby and a distant relative of him is living there now.

Though MGR was born in Sri Lanka, his father Maruthur Gopala Menon belonging to the nearby Nalleppilly village returned to Vadavannur after his retirement as the Magistrate of Kandy in Sri Lanka and stayed for some time in their ancestral house.

After his death MGR ’s mother left with her another son M.G. Chakrapani to live with her elder brother at Kumbakonam in Thanjavur district.

While living there both the brothers entered the film world.

M.G.R had married from Kuzhalmannam in Palakkad. His first wife was Ammukutty alias Sadanandavathy, daughter of Kadukunni Nair and Mokambika Amma.

After her death only MGR married actress Janaki. In fact some of the relatives of Janaki had married from Vadavannur.

Though the family left Vadavannur MGR had visited his ancestral house on a number of times even after becoming Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, the local people said.

The Grama Panchayat President of Vadavannur K.S. Sheeja said that the Panchayat has constructed the memorial which will be used has a conference hall and Kalyana Mandapam. An amount of Rs.52 lakh was spent from the M.L.A’s local area development fund of K. Achuthan.

...

ChennaiIndian

July 12th, 2010, 09:38 PM

http://www.thehindu.com/arts/article509556.ece

"Nothing would deter KB [Balachander] from extracting the best out of the actors. He would ask us to get ready for a retake even if he finds a slightest slip in our performance," extols actor Sivakumar

Four DVDs containing the works of director K. Balachander were released by Swathi Soft Solutions on Friday in the city. The video discs released by ‘Cho’ Ramaswamy, Editor, Thuglak contain Rail Sneham, Ramany Vs Ramany (both TV serials), Pournami and Oru Koodai Paasam (both stage plays).

The release event coincided with the 80th birthday of the well-known director. K.S.Sudhakar of Swathi Soft Solutions honoured KB on the occasion, applauded by a packed audience at the Chettinad Vidyashram auditorium in R A Puram.

S.B.Khaanthan, creative director who worked as the floor director for KB’s stage plays anchored the show and explained how the innovative director had created the right format for TV serial production. K.S. Prabhakar of Swathi Soft Solutions welcomed the gathering.

Actor Sivakumar praised Balachander for his prowess in doing things differently and recalled some of the scenes in which he had acted under his direction in various films. Veteran stage actor and script, dialogue writer ‘Crazy’ Mohan quipped that KB continued to write scripts at an age when most people found it difficult to write letters to their wives.

Poet Vaali said that he most eagerly watched the DVD of Pournami and was awestruck by the way KB had woven his magic into it. ‘Cho’ Ramaswamy turned nostalgic and reminisced about the days when Balachander directed his plays several decades ago. He added in a lighter vein that despite his great capabilities KB could not turn him into a good actor. He congratulated Swathi Soft Solution on releasing the classic works.

...

ChennaiIndian

July 12th, 2010, 09:38 PM

http://www.thehindu.com/arts/article511111.ece

http://www.thehindu.com/multimedia/dynamic/00142/12TH_NEW_SIVAJI_142837f.jpg

Music club on Sirkazhi Govindarajan, literary forum on Jayakanthan planned

Film, art and literature buffs in the city can soon look forward to interesting exchanges in these areas between India and Russia.

As a first step, the Indo-Russian Chamber of Commerce and Industries, and Russian Centre of Science and Culture will set up Sirkazhi Govindarajan – Tchaikovsky Indo-Russian Dance and Music Illam, a music club that will organise dance and music performances on a regular basis.

From Salsa to Bharathanatyam, and Russian folk music to Carnatic, every month would see a medley of performing arts from both the countries, beginning July 24.

“It is a wonderful initiative and will be the right platform to integrate Russian and Indian art forms. For artists, the awards will be an international honour. And for Russians who want to learn Indian dance and music, the club would be the right guide,” said singer Sirkazhi Sivachidambaram, son of Sirkazhi Govindarajan.

In line with the success of Tamil films in Russia and the popularity of Russian directors in India, the Chamber has plans to set up ‘Sivaji Ganesan and Sergei Bondarchuk Indo-Russian Film Service Bureau,' which would screen Tamil and Russian movies every month. Following the screenings, discussions about the film and the filmmaker by celebrities from Tamil film industry would be held.
Film Library

Indian and Russian film festivals would become a regular affair after setting up the bureau, said the Chamber Secretary P. Thangappan. A ‘Sivaji–Bondarchuk Film Library' will be set up as part of the bureau and the library would feature DVD collections of Sivaji Ganesan and Bondarchuk films.

Apart from movie screenings, the bureau would facilitate movie trading between the two countries. The bureau would also institute ‘Sivaji Ganesan' awards for Russian artists and ‘Bondarchuk' (director of ‘War and Peace') awards for Indian artists, in an attempt to bridge the movie culture of both the countries.

A literary forum at the Russian Centre of Science and Culture would also take shape shortly. The Pushkin-Jayakanthan Indo-Russian Literary Forum' would serve as a platform to recognise and honour Tamil writers and Russian writers who have contributed for Tamil works.

...

ChennaiIndian

July 12th, 2010, 09:41 PM

http://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Chennai/article511100.ece

What is common between the female lead roles in the films Iruvar, Guru and Raavanan apart from the fact that they were played by actor Aishwarya Rai? Actor Rohini, who is known for her emotive voice and clear Tamil diction, dubbed for all these characters.

Lending her voice to the Miss World-turned-actor is something Rohini is used to. “In Iruvar, both the roles she plays are very different. One was a convent-educated, bold actor, while the other was a coy and loving wife. Guru was again different and Raavanan was like nothing that I have done before.”

It was director Mani Ratnam who identified her potential as a dubbing artist and utilised her voice for Girija in Idayathai Thirudadae. She also dubbed for Manisha Koirala in Bombay. “It was as if I stumbled upon something I am good at. I have been lucky to get such an interesting range of characters,” says Rohini.

While Girija's role was that of a mischievous, charming young girl, Bombay demanded a completely different voice modulation. “Manisha plays this timid girl coming from a village, who wouldn't speak loudly. In Mumbai, she acquires a Hindi accent and later, she yells out her twins' names ahead of the climax …all these variations are challenging to bring using the voice,” she says.

Rohini, who has also worked for films of other directors such as Gautham Vasudev Menon (dubbing for Jothika in Vettaiyadu Vilayadu) and Shankar (for Manisha Koirala in Indian) says she dreads hearing the compliment “Oh, you were so good” for her work as dubbing artist.

“It's like ‘oh my god, they found out.' I think the success of a dubbing artist really lies in not letting the audience know who you are. It's the character's voice – so one needs to understand the character, her body language and attitude and match the voice to all that.”

One would think that a sore throat was part of the occupational hazard of being a dubbing artist, but Rohini may not have realised how severe it could get, until she dubbed for Aishwarya in Raavanan. “The voice had to come out really strong – with lot of anger. For every scream you hear on screen, I must have shouted some 25 times,” she laughs.
Other pursuits

Rohini will soon collaborate with writer-poet Manushyaputhran and work on a series of audio books in Tamil. “I have been eager to do this, particularly with works of great writers.”

The actor, who loves multitasking, is also active in theatre. Her solo in Pennoli conceptualised by Prasanna Ramaswamy was very well received at the recent World Classical Tamil Conference in Coimbatore. “I enjoy theatre. In addition to acting, it allows me to engage with literature, poetry and music.”

...

ceeznic pirate

July 12th, 2010, 11:09 PM

watched madharasapattinam today. felt really proud to see the heights tamil film industry has reached. kudos to vijay and his team. A must watch film for everyone in chennai. Thanks for the great effort taken by the team to portray Madras of 1940s. Amy is a great pick for her role. Guys dont miss the film. Though it has essence of titanic, lagaan, apoalypto, etc., it doesnt mater when it is done well. Satyam recieved a great applause from the crowd when the film ends.
I ve planned to see it again.

dhandapanik

July 13th, 2010, 07:30 AM

ChennaiIndian

July 18th, 2010, 11:18 PM

http://www.thehindu.com/arts/cinema/article522268.ece

It took nine years for Su. Venkatesan to complete his maiden novel. But within a year of its publication, ‘Kaavalkottam' has become the source for a period film.

‘Aravaan', the next venture of director Vasanthabalan of ‘Angadi Theru' fame, is based on one of the many stories that were part of the mega novel published in 2009. The director, who comes from the ‘director Shankar school', made a mark with ‘Veyil', which received accolades both in India and abroad.

“I was more than happy when Vasanthabalan asked me if he could make a film based on the book. We held discussions for 6 months and decided on the story,” says Mr. Venkatesan, who has also written the story and dialogues for the film.

The novel tracing the over 600 years' history of Madurai, beginning with the conquest of the ancient city by Malik Kafur, focuses on the unique security system and guards at Madurai Fort. The British, keen on expanding the city, dismantled the security system, suppressed the revolt of the guards, settled them in the Gudalur-Cumbum areas and finally declared them as a criminal tribe. The 1000-odd page novel has hundreds of stories between the covers dealing with the history of these people

Story of an Aravaan

There were Aravaans among the security guards, so called after Aravaan, the son of Arjuna, who sacrificed himself before Goddess Kali for the victory of the Pandavas in the Kurukshetra war in Mahabharata. The story revolves around one such Aravaan. Mr. Venkatesan says he has already completed the task assigned to him.

“It is a challenge because it is a whole new world. But I am fully comfortable with Mr. Vasanthabalan, a keen follower of Tamil literary trends, who has worked with various Tamil writers such as Sujatha, S. Ramakrishnan and Jayamohan,” says Mr. Venkatesan, a member of the executive committee of the Communist Party of India (Marxist), Madurai unit. He is also the deputy general secretary of the Tamil Nadu Progressive Writers Association.

“Even in my novel I tried to create a visual impact through the narration. So it was not difficult for me to pen a story suitable for a film,” Mr. Venkatesan says responding to the question on how he was able to write the script for the film based on an 18th century story.

The action-based story will be racy and gripping, says Mr. Vasanthabalan. The award-winning director makes sure he handles a different genre in every movie and this film will be no different.

On casting, he says Aadhi has a gigantic personality, which aptly suits the character of the movie. “Pasupathi has always been my favourite since Veyil,'”he says. Singer Karthik will make a debut as a music director, composing a good number of folk-based numbers

...

kg4129

July 19th, 2010, 05:45 AM

Anyone watched "Kalavani" movie?

Interesting movie to watch.. I liked it:)

saysenthil

July 20th, 2010, 04:29 PM

^^

True!! To too watched the movie last sunday.....It was a well made movie. I wont tell that it was the Master class. But had a decent story & a neat performance from the lead stars especially hero & his amma..... Cooool!!!

I highly recommend this film for our forumers!! U can also watch it with ur family!! (No blood even it has been filmed in a village back drop)

kongutamizhan

July 20th, 2010, 05:20 PM

^^

U can also watch it with ur family!! (No blood even it has been filmed in a village back drop)

What?? True that there is no blood shed. Did you pay enough attention to the dialogues? If you did and if you still didn't get the double meanings behind it then I have nothing to say :lol::lol:

rajii

July 21st, 2010, 05:18 PM

kalavani is an jovial treat and also i loved the village location.. its very beauty..

anandha burathu vedu is very different movie given by naga who have took super hit serial marama desam.. this movie was not an thriller it have sentiments and comedy..

ChennaiIndian

July 26th, 2010, 11:11 PM

http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chennai/Sports-is-the-new-hero-in-Kollywood/articleshow/6216408.cms

CHENNAI: Sports is emerging as the new hero in Kollywood. Running abreast of village-based small films with unknown actors directed by debutants, sports-based themes are slowly warming up. "It's a tricky business since cinema-goers are not tuned into all games, including cricket, but sports seems to be the new hero" says Venkat Prabhu, who directed the 2007 sleeper hit Chennai 28' which revolved around locality cricket.

Pick any year and say jallikkattu' to anyone in rural Tamil Nadu, and chances are he would rattle off Aranganallur match statistics like you and I would of FIFA or IPL. But the younger adolescents of the state, newly into cricket in the last decade or so, are scripting a new trend for Kollywood. After last year's Vennila kabbadi kuzhu', this year's Kalavani' saw the film opening with a boys' cricket match which draws entire villages. On the cards is another cricket film Patta patti,' where cricketer Sadagopan Ramesh, playing himself, takes the game to a village.

"Sports, especially cricket, is emerging as a new genre in Tamil cinema, and small films with new faces are emerging as an agent of change. It is exciting times for filmmakers," says Venkat Prabhu. Lee,' a film on football in 2007 did not quite score a goal, but two years later, Vennila kabbadi kuzhu,' swept the audience of the feet. "I come from a family of kabbadi players, but being a filmmaker, and although this game is popular in villages, I wanted to take the story to both village and urban audiences. It was a tricky one, but it succeeded" said Suseendran, director of the move. As for Lee,' a director says, it didn't click because the theme tried to mix, unconvincingly, football with goondaism.

Unlike Bollywood which had Hurray' Boxer' and All Rounder' all releasing in 1984, and a host of other films in the wake of Lagaan' in 2001, and Chak de' (2007), Tamil cinema has not seen a deluge of sports themes. " Lagaan' and Chak de' worked because of big names like Aamir Khan and Shah Rukh, but with unknown names in small films, as is done in Tamil, the task is much harder, say directors. "Although cricket has penetrated into rural areas because of satellite channels, it is only the younger generation which is into cricket. The scene of villagers turning up in large numbers to watch children play a cricket match in Kalavani' is true to life," says Yuvaraj, director, Patta patti'. Fifteen years ago, villagers were into football, kabbadi and jallikkattu', not cricket, he points out.

...

satishanu

July 27th, 2010, 01:09 AM

http://i.indiaglitz.com/tamil/news/endhiran260710_2.jpg

http://i.indiaglitz.com/tamil/news/endhiran260710_3.jpg

Audio launch on July 31st at KL, Mal.

http://www.indiaglitz.com/channels/tamil/article/58884.html

vs007

July 27th, 2010, 03:52 AM

Looking at the second picture, reminds me of the college mates in Tamil Padam.

ChennaiIndian

July 31st, 2010, 07:24 PM

http://movies.ndtv.com/movie_story.aspx?section=Movies&Id=ENTEN20100148335&keyword=bollywood&subcatg=MOVIESINDIA&nid=41143

ChennaiIndian

July 31st, 2010, 07:38 PM

Cross-posting.

Endhiran Team: The almighty Superstar Rajnikanth, the music God ARR and the most successful extravagant director in India - Shankar!! :banana::banana::banana::banana::banana::banana::banana::banana::banana::banana::banana:

Enthiran is the first Indian movie to use Stan Winston Studio’s Animatronics technology. We all are proud and happy to be associated with the number one Hollywood studio who did a great job in movies like Jurassic Park, Predator, Terminator, Ironman and the recent Avatar. :banana::banana:

http://www.filmyfair.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/01/aishwarya1.jpg

Listen songs online (legally) - http://music.galatta.com/entertainment/music/songs/albumid/5782/movie/Enthiran.html#

Aishwarya, Rajnikanth at Endhiran music launch - http://movies.ndtv.com/PhotoDetail.aspx?ID=5545&img=1&cp

Stage is set for Endhiran music launch - http://movies.ndtv.com/movie_story.aspx?section=Movies&Id=ENTEN20100148335&keyword=bollywood&subcatg=MOVIESINDIA&nid=41143

georgenadar

August 2nd, 2010, 03:34 AM

Yeah, I listened Enthiran, the songs are rocking ARR done good work in album, hope we can expect same in the movie especially bgm...:cheers:

georgenadar

August 2nd, 2010, 03:42 AM

Music Director : A.R.Rahman
Vocals : S.P.Balasubramaniam, A.R.Rahman, Khatija Rahman, Vijay Prakash, Shreya Ghosal, Kash n’ Krissy, Pradeep Vijay, Pravin Mani, Yogi B, Hariharan, Sadhana Sargam, Benny Dayal, Naresh Iyer, Javed Ali, Chinmayee, Kirthi Sagathia, Swetha Mohan, Tanvi Shah.
Lyrics : Vairamuthu, Karky, Pa.Vijay
The Endhiran storm has intensified. It is raining music around the world with the launch of the year's most awaited audio released in Malaysia. There was secrecy maintained first, then a few stills released, then it was Shankar's tweets and finally the music of Endhiran is out. With the superstar and Aishwarya in lead roles, Sun Pictures producing, Shankar directing and AR Rahman composing the music, we wonder what we can expect out of this album. Technical brilliance, hugeness, flamboyance and a touch showy, Endhiran has it all.

The first few seconds of the song "Puthiya Manitha" tells you what to expect out of this album. "Techno". The robotic tone of AR Rahman is just the appetizer for more to come. Robotic ? Oh come on, this is Endhiran after all. Then we just slip our senses listening to Khatija Rahman's

(Rahman's eldest daughter) serene rendition only to be awakened by the bold voice of SPB. Vairamuthu pleads to the robot "Ella uyirukkum nanmai aa iru ... entha nilaiyilum unmai aa iru". Just an amazing opening number.

We move forward to "Kadhal Anukkal" by Vairamuthu of Gen X. If your ears are treated to strumming guitars and the husky voice of Vijay Prakash, Vairamuthu showcases his understanding of this generation with peppy lyrics. Known for his semi-melodious romatic numbers, Rahman is at ease delivering this. The bag piper interlude is pure genius. No robots, no techno. This one is purely for the die hard romatic. Though the grand arrangement of music catches your imagination, it is hard to miss the voices of Vijay Prakash and Shreya Goshal. A poesy and foot tapping number this.

The start of "Irumbile oru idhayam" is an indicator of what is to follow. Lyrics by Kaarkhi, this one will make you dance right from the word go. We are treated to super example of the "Techno" genre. If the initial lyrics are english, Rahman's settles down things with his husky voice and tamil lyrics. This one is about the iron hearted Endhiran infected by the love virus. If Rahman, the lover, proposes love in Tamil, Lady Kash and Krissy, the curious girl raps back with exciting English lyrics. Verses like "Thottu pesum bothum shock adika thonum.... iravin naduvil battery thaan theerum" makes you want to listen to this more than once. This is easily the pick of the album.

If you think the next song falls in the same category after the first few lines of heavy techno sounds and with slightly uncomprehensible english lyrics, you are mistaken. This is "Chitti Dance Showcase" sung by Pradeep Vijay, Pravin mani and YogiB. A fusion of western and classical music, we wonder where this piece will fit in the movie. We get to hear some wonderful amalgamation of neatly arranged percussion, techno sounds and classical interludes.

We are now welcomed to the grandness of the bigger than the biggest in "Arima Arima". Yes now we see Endhiran with digitised trumpets announcing the arrival of the beast. Vairamuthu is at his best with the finest translation of computer terms. with male chorus and digital notes playing in the background, we can feel the Robot walking forward, amidst praises, trying to conquer a woman's heart with arrogance. If Hariharan showcases the arrogance, Sadhana Sargam's voice surely seems to tame the lordiness. The never stopping drums add charm to this song.

We are now travelling to "Kilimanjaro". Yes, tribal vocals, beats and chimes welcome you to the grandeur of Africa. With Javed Ali and Chinmayi in control, you cannot miss this one. We are now treated to some drum beats and vocals by the virtuoso. Lyrics by Pa. Vijay adds spice to the romance. No this is strictly not the Endhiran style music we have heard so far. This is more the style of our lover-girl lover-boy routine.

Sung by Yogi B, Keerthi Sagathia, Swetha Mohan and Tanvi Shah, the last song of the album "Boom Boom Robot da" sums up the overall experience with a dose of digitised technco music. Lyrics by Kaarki, the song is about the characteristics of the robot. This one certainly evokes interest if one listens to the lyrics carefully.

If AR Rahmman introduced "Blues" genre of music in VTV, this time around he loudly announces "It is Techno time folks". We are just mersmerised with the digital beats and sounds and of course some amazing voices and lyrics. This Robot is out to win all

Rank : 4.5 out of 5