Reporting by Janani K; Photos by Dani Charles. Photos from the audio launch are below the report.
The question in everyone’s mind, when the news of Prabhu Deva’s production house broke, was – why? After all, his career in Bollywood is at an all-time high. We found out as soon as the Prabhu Deva Studios press meet began. This is where he had been born and brought up, and this is where he wanted to give back. Prabhu Deva wanted to contribute to the world of cinema which had nurtured him as a dancer, choreographer, actor, and a successful director, explained the event’s host, Ramya.
Actress and producer Amala Paul arrived late, and blamed it on Google Maps. Looking gorgeous in a white anarkali top and palazzo pants, she seemed reluctant to take the stage. She was accompanied by her husband and director Vijay. How did she get into production? Well, it seems she would often question her husband and father-in-law AL Alagappan about working late, working during holidays, etc. The duo came up with an innovative response. One fine day, Amala Paul was in for a surprise. They told her, “You are now venturing into production with Think Big Studios.” She added that it was a privilege to produce Priyadarshan’s film along with Prbahu Deva.
Prabhu Deva seemed anxious as well. Dressed in black formals, he admitted he was tense even before the work on his films could begin. “When I was an actor, I’d to be tense during the film’s release. When I was a director, I’d be tense before the rushes go to the editing table. Now this is a different kind of tension.” He added that it had been director Priyadarshan’s choice to partner with him, “He selected us, not the other way around.” Complimenting director Lakshman’s style, he concluded with, “I hope I do justice to the work I’ve taken up.
Prabhu Deva Studios has three projects lined up: first, they will fund Priyadarshan’s film along with Amala Paul’s Think Big Studios. The film stars Prakash Raj and Sriya Reddy, and marks the reunion of the National Award winning Kanchivaram team. Second, they will produce a film made by the Romeo Juliet team comprising of director Lakshman, actor Jayam Ravi, music director D Imman, and editor Anthony. Third, they will produce debutant director Victor Jayaraj’s Vinodhan. This film features Varun of Night Show fame.
Priyadarshan’s untitled film
Priyadarshan was visibly happy that his film would be co-produced by his disciple, director Vijay, along with Prabhu Deva. Prakash Raj, who shares a close bond with Prabhu Deva, said, “Prabhu used to ask me why I wanted to venture into production when my career could feed me just as well. He would advise me against getting into production as it’s a huge task. But I used to say, ‘No Prabhu, you won’t understand now and I love producing content-rich films’. Now, I am happy that his experience, maturity, and passion will go into this production house.”
Romeo Juliet team’s second film
Jayam Ravi said with a beaming smile that Prabhu Deva would always hold a special place for him. Before Engeyum Kadhal’s shooting, Jayam’s friends had scared him by saying that Prabhu Deva wouldn’t stop torturing him if he didn’t dance well. “Even during shooting, my friends asked me if Prabhu Deva tortured me or not. He did not do anything like that to me and that scared me. After some time, I understood that he liked me and okayed my takes. Even now, I am blown away seeing him and sitting next to him,” he added.
Music director D Imman has signed two projects out of the three funded by Prabhu Deva. He said he was proud to partner with Prabhu Deva, who had encouraged him during his early days. He also said that with their second venture, he wanted to prove that the success of the Romeo Juliet wasn’t just luck.
Vinodhan
Vinodhan marks the first film for several debutants in the industry. Along with Victor Jayaraj, this will also be actor Varun’s first film as the solo lead. The film also has cinematographer Saravanan, assistant Nirav Shah, and writer Madhan Karky, along with music composer D Imman. Prabhu Deva made it a point to warmly encourage the new entrants.
