*“Meiyazhagan has no action-packed sequences, but is an out-and-out commercial film” - Actor Karthi*
*“Director Prem is never smug-bitten by fame and spotlights”- Actor Karthi*
*“Meiyazhagan will be a positive tonic that will cure negativity” - Director Premkumar*
*“Meiyazhagan has lots of my real life reflections” - Actor Arvind Swami*
2D Entertainment Suriya & Jyotika presents ‘Meiyazhagan’, starring Karthi and Arvind Swami in the lead roles, is directed by ’96’ movie fame Premkumar. The film is all set for the worldwide theatrical release on September 27, and the entire team was present for the Pre-Release event held at Express Avenue Mall in Chennai.
Here are some excerpts from the event.
Actress Devadarshini said, “It’s my second collaboration with ’96’ director Premkumar. When I was reading the film’s script, Premkumar revealed about the character that I am playing. After hearing it, I didn’t get proper sleep for next couple of days. The film has lots of takeaways for the audience. Everyone had their own reflections in 96, and so will be Meiyazhagan, but with a different dimension. I have been a great fan of Arvind Swami sir from my college days. He had once visited my college, and I was so desperate to see him, but unfortunately, couldn’t even have a glance of his shadow. And now, I am literally happy for having shared the screen space with him. I texted some of my college friends on working with Arvind Swami, and they stopped talking to me out of jealousy. This will be the best film of Karthi, according to his fans, and will be liked by everyone. He has shown so much dedication and hard work for this character.”
Cinematographer Mahendran Jayaraj said, “When we were shooting in Kumbakonam, Arvind Swami sir invited us for lunch in Trichy. I was so surprised to see his gesture of lovely hospitality, which turned an ordinary day into a festive occasion. The way, he treated all the staffs, was so humbling. After watching the film, everyone will start feeling how life would have been beautiful if there is someone beside him like the character, played by Karthi sir, all throughout their lives. Our entire team felt the same way, while shooting this film. I am so glad to be a part of this film, made by a lovely bunch of people like Karthi, Arvind Swami and Premkumar.”
Think Music Santhosh said, “Our first collaboration with 2D Entertainment was 36 Vayadhinile, and now ‘Meiyazhagan’ marks our second collaboration. This is our second collaboration with Premkumar sir after 96, and our fifth film with Karthi sir. I was so emotionally frozen and couldn’t get out of it, even a week after watching this film. I was born and brought up in Chennai, after watching the film, I realized the emotions of those, who go back to their native for the festive occasions like Diwali, and Pongal. The songs from Meiyazhagan will be chartbuster hit for this year.”
Sakthi Film Factory - B. Sakthivelan said, “Although everyone here might acclaim Chennai as their second home, nothing can gift them the emotional peace like their native lands. So far, not many movies have properly handled the emotional essence of individuals, who go back to their homes to celebrate festive and special occasions. Meiyazhagan sheds beautiful light on this aspect of human life and joy. On the other hand, usually, films either savor the tastes of urban or rural audiences, but Meiyazhagan will be a universal treat for both categories of people. Watching the experience of ‘Meiyazhagan’ will be more like reading a novel. Everyone will witness the upgraded version of Arvind Swami after the film’s release. Everyone will be awestruck, watching his performance. There is no single sad scene in this movie, but your eyes will be moistened in many places. Press and Media professionals always look up to such movies that will make them unconditionally elated and spread positive words. This will be one such movie.”
Actress Sri Divya said, “The film 96 has undoubtedly left a significant impression on audiences. I am eager to witness the influence that Meiyazhagan will have on you. The music from this movie has captivated me immensely. Kamal Haasan's compositions are exceptional. Each time I listened to them, I found myself in tears, as they transported me back to my childhood and evoked cherished memories of my mother. I have yet to experience such profound love. My quest for true love continues, as I have not yet found it. This particular song resonated deeply with me. I take great pride in being associated with this film.”
Director C Premkumar said, ‘I am addressing press and media friends 6 years after the release of 96. We started working on this project last November, and are releasing it this September, and everything has happened in one year. I was so clear that none of the artists from 96, should be a part of this movie, but couldn’t think of anyone other than Devadarshini for a specific role in this movie. Likewise, I had initially approached Sri Divya for a younger sister character, and she was little busy during that time. After 6 months, we approached her for the other role, and she instantly agreed to do it. Many might ask about the intention of this film. In recent times, there are lots of negativities spreading through social media platforms. Love alone can change it. This film speaks about love and kindness. We wanted to focus purely on Tamil essence, and hence have everything from title purely in the respective language.”
Actor Arvind Swami said, “I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to Prem Kumar for crafting a character that resonates so deeply with me in Meiyazhagan. The story is incredibly moving and has left a lasting impact on me. I eagerly look forward to sharing more about it after the film's release. Collaborating with Karthi on this film has not only been a professional opportunity but has also blossomed into a meaningful personal connection. (Playfully addressing the audience) Karthi anna might have a few things to say about me once I step off the stage, but take it with a grain of salt. During an event where the host was praising Arvind Swami's appeal to women in Tamil Nadu, his witty response shed light on the misconceptions created by the roles we play in movies. His humor struck a chord with the audience, showcasing his down-to-earth nature.
Actor Karthi said, “96 is widely beloved, with a story, screenplay, and dialogues all written by Prem Kumar. 'Jai Bhim' director Gnanavel mentioned that Prem has a story for Meiyazhagan. Despite being overlooked by producers and other heroes, Prem spent six years developing this story, showing he isn't driven by fame. He's a rare find in the industry."
As I read through the script, I couldn't help but be moved to tears. Prem may have penned this story during the Covid pandemic. The narrative reflects a universal yearning. For festive occasions like Diwali and Pongal, everyone migrates from Chennai to the city, leaving Chennai empty. Their love for their hometowns runs deep. Many have inquired about my involvement in this film. However, given its commercial nature, it's a compelling opportunity that I couldn't pass up. The entire film was shot during the night. After receiving the fight scenes from Lokesh Kanagaraj, I wholeheartedly embraced the night shoots for several days. Despite the physical demands, the results are beyond rewarding.
When I spoke with Arvind Swami, we both emphasized the importance of effectively portraying emotions in the scenes without slowing down, as this is key to the film's success. My character relentlessly torments Aravind Swami throughout the movie. While filming in Dindigul, he took me to a restaurant and treated me to biryani at 8 o'clock in the morning.
The song "Kaadhalae Kaadhalae" from the film 96 continues to be a popular ringtone for many. Similarly, the song "Meiyazhagan" is often played while traveling through the town. Appreciation is due to Kamal Sir for the effort he put into this song. It was mentioned that without love, Raja Sir would not write a story for Premkumar, and this sentiment is reflected in the song as well.”
- Johnson pro
