Here’s one for the record: The last time lyricist Vairamuthu and composer Ilaiyaraja worked together was in 1986. That hasn’t changed yet, but something significant is happening. “After 28 years following Punnagai Mannan and Kadalora Kavithaigal , this is the first time I am doing work for one of his (Ilaiyaraja) family members,” says Vairamuthu who is writing the songs for Yuvan Shankar Raja’s compositions in Idam Porul Eval ( IPE ). Says the film’s director Seenu Ramasamy: “I am happy about this renewed association with the family.” Meanwhile, Seenu has finalised most of the cast for the film and has planned the first schedule. “I have screen-tested Manisha ( Vazhakku Enn 18/9 and Aadhalal Kadhal Seiveer ) and found her ideal for the heroine’s role opposite Vijay Sethupathi. The selection process is on for finding a suitable co-star for Vishnu, the other hero. After this, we will be proceeding to Kodaikanal for a 40-day schedule where most of the scenes will be shot.” Idam Porul Eval is a modern-day story set in the hills and the plains.
Exploring relationships
After Jannal Oram and Veeram , actor Viddarth is looking forward to director duo Ram-Laxman’s Venmegam in which he is paired with Ishara. Although Viddarth has four other films in post-production stage — Aal, Ula, Vizhithiru and Pattaya Kelappanum Pandiya — Venmegam releases next week. “I play a commercial artist in Venmegam . Incidentally, both the directors are artists in real life and to some extent, the story is based on their experiences. I have actually painted for some of the scenes filmed on me and I am pleasantly surprised that I have this talent too. Venmegam explores the relationship between a mother and daughter played by Rohini and Jaishree, a 14-year old. How the protagonist enters their lives is what Venmegam is all about,” says Viddarth.
Yaan song sequences shot in Morocco
We hear that acclaimed cinematographer-turned-director Ravi K. Chandran has just returned from a hectic three-week schedule in Morocco. His Yaan , featuring Jiiva and Thulasi and produced under the banner R. S. Infotainment, is progressing at a brisk pace. The film’s action and song sequences have been canned in this picturesque city where movies such as Bourne Ultimatum, The Mummy, Body of Lies and Kingdom of Heaven were shot.