Director Venkat Prabhu is on a high as his Studio Green production, Biriyani, gears up for a December 20 release. Usually known for his high fun quotient, the producers felt the holiday season would be the ideal time to release this feel good film.
The film seems to be special in more ways than one, to the team. For music composer Yuvan Shankar Raja, this is his 100th film. An emotional Yuvan said at the media interaction, “ I composed the music for Karthi’s first film Paruthiveeran and now he’s starring in my 100th film!” For Karthi, the special factor dates back to the school days.
He recalls, “When Venkat, Premgi, Yuvan and myself attended the same school and hung out in the canteen, we never imagined that one we would all be doing a film together!” He is amazed at Yuvan’s feat at such a young age. “For an actor like me to complete even 30 films is an achievement! So I’m really happy that Yuvan has completed a century,” he adds.
Venkat, cousin of Yuvan, laughs when he remembers, “I would playfully add to Yuvan’s tension and tell him to give his best, and stress that its 100th film. He would tell me, ‘Don’t scare me with numbers’.” But the bond they share is apparent when Venkat says emotionally,”I’m very happy my bro has touched the 100-mark and even more thrilled that I am directing his 100th film.”
Venkat is all praise for his hero, Karthi. “He’s a natural actor. He is easy to mould. But we had to pressure him to trim his moustache for this film! We’ve given him a new look with contact lenses, a new hairstyle and colourful wardrobe for a totally urban look. He plays a complete womaniser in the film and has also sung a song with Premgi.”
The film marks the return of Ramki in a key role, playing Nasser’s son-in-law while Madhumita of Yogi fame has an important role. Venkat is happy that the late Vaali who was part of his debut film Chennai 28, has composed a song for this film too. The goodwill that Yuvan and he share with the industry is apparent from the way music directors Vijay Antony, Thaman, GV Prakash and D Imman came together to croon a number for Yuvan in this film. Madan Karky is teaming up with Yuvan for the first time.