Latest news with #GauthamVasudevMenon
Hindustan Times
02-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Hindustan Times
Mahesh Babu, not Simbu, was supposed to star in Vinnaithaandi Varuvaayaa. Here's how the climax looked like then
Gautham Vasudev Menon's 2010 film Vinnaithaandi Varuvaayaa, with Simbu and Trisha Krishnan in the lead roles, has to be one of his most iconic films. Recently, on Sudhir Srinivasan's podcast, the filmmaker revealed that he initially wrote the film for Mahesh Babu with a completely different ending. Gautham Vasudev Menon wrote the film for Mahesh Babu but he turned it down. Gautham did not name Mahesh in the conversation but mentioned that he wrote Vinnaithaandi Varuvaayaa for a 'big superstar' whose family was producing the film in Telugu. Mahesh's sister Manjula Ghattamaneni had produced the Telugu version, Ye Maaya Chesave, with Naga Chaitanya and Samantha Ruth Prabhu. He stated that when they signed him to write a film, he wrote what came to him 'naturally' in six days, which was a love story and not an action film. 'The ending was different in my first draft. Actually, he'll be working on a film set. The film's actor will be Chiranjeevi sir. And this girl is now getting married, finally, somewhere else. They've moved on, but he somehow wants to be there for the wedding. When he looks disturbed on set, the hero asks him what's wrong. When he tells him, he arranges a helicopter for him. I wrote a cinematic version,' said Gautham. However, when he narrated the film to Mahesh, he turned it down because he didn't want to star in a love story. 'When I narrated it to the hero, he said everyone will expect us to do an action film. I expected the same, so I don't want to do this. I then took it to an equally big star in Telugu, but he had the same issue,' said the director. About Vinnaithaandi Varuvaayaa Vinnaithaandi Varuvaayaa starred Simbu and Trisha. It was shot simultaneously as the Telugu version, Ye Maaya Chesave, with Chaitanya and Samantha. Manjula produced the Telugu version under Indira Productions, and the Tamil version was backed by Elred Kumar, Jayaraman, VTV Ganesh and P Madan under the banners Escape Artists Motion Pictures and RS Infotainment. The film explores the complicated relationship between a Hindu boy and an older Malayali girl. Both films received good reviews and are considered classics.
India.com
27-06-2025
- Entertainment
- India.com
Dhanush, Nayanthara, And Ravi Mohan Headline VELS Film's Star-Studded 2025–2027 Lineup
Mumbai: The VELS Film International production studio has unveiled its ambitious slate of diverse films, which are slated for release between 2025 and 2027. Mumbai: Through an Instagram post, VELS shared a video that offers a glimpse into the studio's upcoming titles--spanning commercial blockbusters, socially rooted dramas, and high-concept genre films--further solidifying its position as a powerhouse in Indian cinema. The slate features collaborations with some of the most accomplished and promising filmmakers in Indian cinema, including Sundar C, Gautham Vasudev Menon, Vetri Maaran, Mari Selvaraj, Prem Kumar, Jude Anthany Joseph, Arunraja Kamaraja, Vignesh Raja, Chella Ayyavu, and Ganesh K. Babu. It also marks the directorial debut of YouTuber VJ Sidhu, backed by VELS' commitment to fostering new directorial talent, as per the press note shared by the production studio. According to the video, the leading cast across these films includes acclaimed actors such as Dhanush, Ravi Mohan, Nayanthara, and Vishnu Vishal, bringing together a powerful blend of performance-driven storytelling and wide audience appeal. While sharing the video on Instagram, the Tamil cinema production house wrote, "10 Visionaries. 10 Movies.1 Studio. @VelsFilmIntl proudly unveils its 10-film mega slate with visionary storytellers in Indian Cinema. Here's the league that's all set to define the next chapter of Tamil cinema." Additionally, VELS is in discussions with several emerging directors and actors to collaborate on a new wave of exciting films, many of which will mark the directorial debuts of fresh creative voices. After the announcement of the 10 movie slate, Dr. Ishari K. Ganesh, Chairman of VELS Film International, said, "This lineup represents our next chapter--bigger, bolder, and focused on delivering impactful storytelling. We are proud to partner with the best creative minds and bring cinema that will resonate with audiences across platforms and languages," as quoted in a press note. The fans are now eagerly waiting for more updates regarding the films.
Time of India
13-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Gautham Menon vows to stay away from new projects; Focuses on 'Dhruva Natchathiram' release
Director Gautham Vasudev Menon has made a bold declaration that he will not direct or act in any new film until the release of his long-delayed spy thriller 'Dhruva Natchathiram.' Considering the film's high anticipation level and its long journey towards release, this statement has created a new buzz in the Tamil film industry. Years of delay and missed release dates 'Dhruva Natchathiram', starring Chiyaan Vikram in the lead role, was initially planned to be completed and released in 2017. However, the film has faced many obstacles over the years, with several release dates being announced and later missed. Fans expected a dramatic start in January last year and again earlier this year, but the ongoing issues stopped the film from watching daylight. Final push towards a theatrical release In a podcast with YouTuber Prashanth, Gautham Menon confirmed that he has no plans to take on any other directorial or acting assignments until 'Dhruva Natchathiram' is successfully released. He assured that the problems surrounding the project are gradually being resolved and expressed strong confidence that the film will finally be released in July or August 2025. Gautham Menon's commitment to seeing the film has rekindled hope among fans who have been waiting for years. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Gentle Japanese hair growth method for men and women's scalp Hair's Rich Learn More Undo A star-studded cast and high expectations The film boasts an impressive ensemble cast including Vikram , Ritu Varma , Simran, Parthiban, and Radhika Sarathkumar. Gautham Menon himself will appear in a special role. Composed by Harris Jayaraj , the film's soundtrack and slick visuals have already created substantial anticipation. With the director's full focus now on bringing this ambitious project to screens, the Tamil cinema audience is hopeful that the wait for 'Dhruva Natchathiram' is finally nearing its end.
Time of India
12-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Not one but two Mammootty-starrers set to arrive on OTT: Where to watch these Malayalam films, 'Bazooka' & 'Dominic And The Ladie's Purse'?
After several months filled with eager waiting and widespread rumors, two much-anticipated Mammootty-led films—Bazooka and Dominic and the Ladies' Purse—are finally on the verge of making their way to digital platforms. As per a report published by Sakshi Post, both movies are now preparing for their long-delayed online debuts. This is particularly notable because neither of the films managed to secure a digital release previously, largely due to underwhelming box office performances during their theatrical runs. Digital Release Update on Bazooka The action-packed film Bazooka, directed by first-time filmmaker Deeno Dennis, is reportedly set to premiere on ZEE5. Although the exact release date hasn't been disclosed yet, industry insiders suggest that the final stages of the deal for digital distribution are currently underway. The film centers around Aryan Achary, portrayed by Mammootty, a rich and powerful businessman who collaborates with a law enforcement officer in an effort to hunt down a possible serial killer. Through a series of clever and calculated moves, the story unfolds like a strategic battle of wits. However, the plot soon transitions into a psychological thriller, raising serious questions about Aryan's real motives and hidden identity. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Play War Thunder now for free War Thunder Play Now Undo The film features a robust ensemble cast, including actors such as Gautham Vasudev Menon, Shine Tom Chacko, Divya Pillai, Sidharth Bharathan, and Iswarya Menon. Despite the film's promising storyline and solid acting performances, the release on OTT platforms had been in a state of limbo for months. Streaming News for Dominic and the Ladies' Purse Originally rumored to be heading to Amazon Prime Video, Dominic and the Ladies' Purse, a comedic mystery thriller directed by Gautham Vasudev Menon, appears to have found its new streaming platform in ZEE5. This film, too, had faced a delay in its digital rollout despite initial expectations. The plot revolves around Dominic, a former police officer who has fallen from grace and is now working as a private investigator. He is tasked with what seems like a straightforward job — tracking down the rightful owner of a missing lady's purse. However, what begins as a basic case quickly unravels into something far more sinister. Dominic stumbles upon a tangled network involving disappearances, homicides, a mysterious stalker, and the enigmatic dancer named Nandhita. With both films seemingly close to securing official online debuts, fans of Mammootty can look forward to experiencing two distinct genres—psychological action and comedic suspense—from the comfort of their homes.
Time of India
12-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Reports: Mammootty's ‘Bazooka' and ‘Dominic and the Ladies' Purse' finally set for OTT release: READ MORE
(Picture Courtesy: Facebook) After months of anticipation and speculation, Mammootty starrers — 'Bazooka' and 'Dominic and the Ladies' Purse' — are reportedly gearing up for their much-delayed OTT releases. According to a report by Sakshi Post, both films are likely to stream soon on OTT. This holds significance as both the films had not made it's OTT release after getting lukewarm response in theatres. Bazooka's OTT release The action thriller 'Bazooka', helmed by debutant Deeno Dennis, is said to have finally landed an OTT deal with ZEE5. Although an official streaming date hasn't been announced yet, the platform is reportedly in the final stages of closing the agreement for digital rights. The film follows Aryan Achary (played by Mammootty), a wealthy businessman who allies with a police officer to capture a potential psychopath through a series of strategic mind games. But the narrative soon shifts into a gripping psychological thriller as doubts arise about Aryan's true identity. Bazooka - Official Teaser The movie boasts a compelling supporting cast that includes Gautham Vasudev Menon, Shine Tom Chacko, Divya Pillai, Sidharth Bharathan, and Iswarya Menon. Despite strong performances and a unique premise, the film's OTT release had been hanging in the balance for several months. Dominic and the Ladies' Purse' OTT release Initially expected to release on Amazon Prime Video, 'Dominic and the Ladies' Purse' — a mystery comedy thriller directed by Gautham Vasudev Menon — is also believed to have found a new digital home on ZEE5. The film received a mixed reception during its theatrical run and had no concrete OTT update until now. ETimes gave the film a rating of 3 stars out of 5 and our official review read, 'The exciting climax makes up for any lethargy one may feel at any point in the film. That said, there are also plot points like the identity of an individual -who do they identify as ? There is no judgement which is fair and hopefully, it is looked at through the same lens by the larger public rather than being used as a tool to discriminate. Darbuka Siva's music is fresh and interesting. Vijay Yesudas sang a very peppy track in it with ThirumaLi joining him with Sathyaprakash and Pavithra Chari.'
