The much-awaited Aascar Films’ project, Vallinam, which is also the second film of Eeram-fame director Arivazhagan, is now getting ready for release. The trailer of the film was launched in a grand manner recently.
Speaking at the event, a visibly-thrilled Arivazhagan said, “Many people ask me about the delay in completing Vallinam. I want to clarify that I had a bound script ready within six months and started off with a dedicated cast, crew and a very good producer. But this movie was delayed due to unforeseen situations like weather changes and problems in getting permissions to shoot at certain locations. I am happy that after a supernatural thriller like Eeram, I am making a very different film. Vallinam is a sports-action film. It’s not a film about basketball, but is based on the game. In sports, I find elements of energy, friendship, love and action intermingled and it made the perfect backdrop for the story. There is also an element of social awareness in the film.”
Vallinam seems to be different from other sports-based films like Chak De India (Hindi) or Vennila Kabaddi Kuzhu, which usually have two teams competing against each other. But in Vallinam, the conflict is between two sports. The film has Nakul and a newbie Mrudhula in lead roles, and actors Amzath and Chandru in important roles. Siddhu, an actor from Tollywood, debuts as villain. Actors Jagan and Atul Kulkarni are also part of the cast.
Music is by Thaman and Vivega is the lyricist. A newcomer Parvathy has penned a song titled Nakula Nakula, which has been sung by Nakul and Andrea Jeremiah. A friendship song titled Mama Machan has been sung by none other than actor Simbu. The friendly vibes between Nakul and Thaman, heroes of director Shankar’s Boys, and the director’s former assistant director Arivazhagan were apparent for all to see.
Debutant K M Bhaskaran, an assistant of cameraman Vijay Milton, handles cinematography. Speaking about the film, Nakul said, “The entire team got along very well. In fact, there was a healthy competition between Amzath and me to learn to play basketball faster. I didn’t want to disappoint Arivazhagan in any way. It was the challenge in doing this sports movie that pushed us forward to give our best. The icing on the cake is having a song in my name.”