Y Not Studios and Radiance Media have teamed up for their magnum opus Kaaviya Thalaivan, which is Vasanthabalan’s next after Aravaan. The film has music by A R Rahman and stars Prithviraj and Siddharth in the lead. The movie is a period flick set in the 1930s and is a dream project for those involved in it. Unveiling the first look at a media meet, the cast and crew revealed what’s keeping the excitement levels so high.
Why not films?
“I didn’t want to do a film with Vasanthabalan initially,” confessed producer Sashikant of Y Not Studios. “I had heard he was a serious man who took years to complete projects. Everyone discouraged me. But, soon their comments got me thinking. Why not give it a try? After all my company is named Y Not,” he said.
The producer’s faith was rewarded when Vasanthabalan began the film in August and completed it by December.
Now the first look has been revealed, which shows that the film is about a group of theatre actors, set in the 1930s. Thambi Ramaiah, Kuyili and Nassar are part of the cast.
Dream come true
Throwing light on his project, Vasanthabalan revealed, “It was my dream to make a film on actors. When Siddharth brought Rahman on board, the film reached another level.” Rahman too seems to be excited. He says, “I gave up a dark Hollywood film for Kaaviya Thalaivan so that I could concentrate fully on this project. I’ve composed eight songs with several smaller ones, totalling 20. I’ve used folk music and ragams to bring in the 1930s feel.”
Vedhika with Rahman once again
Vedhika, who plays the female lead, said, “After Sakarakatthi, this is my second film with Rahman. The role has immense scope to perform and Vasanthabalan guided me seamlessly all through.”
Potential for an Oscar
He says, “Two years ago, Vasanthabalan narrated this story to me. We almost abandoned the project, when Sashikant consented to produce it. Since I’ve worked with Rahman in four films, I felt brave enough to approach him for the music. When he accepted the project, we felt we had an Oscar.His music will draw audiences to the theatres. I’m thrilled that Prithviraj consented to join the cast. Kaaviya Thalaivan is Vasanthabalan’s labour of love.Through this flick, the youth of today will get a window into a different world, culture and history of acting.”