Kollywood’s New Trend: Small Budget, Big Impact Movie Wins Praise From Acclaimed Directors

Something very laudable is happening in Kollywood. Acclaimed film director Bala was all praise and laurels for a just released film Vaazhai, directed by Mari Selvaraj which would have easily passed into oblivion, as it has no glitzy stars nor high amp pre- promos. Just a cute story that unfolds and tugs at your heartstrings, the kind of film that the audience relegates as Festival types. A teary-eyed, highly talented director Bala hugged Mari Selvaraj and said, “We are surely and supremely on the road to global acclaim for Tamil cinema and artists”. Ace director Mani Rathnam too praised the film. Result: 60% of the theatre audience have watched this movie due to endorsements by these well-known directors. There is a big sea change happening, and a very essential change in the themes, treatment, cast and most telling in the budget. Sensible producers like Sivakarthikeyan and directors like Vinothraj have touched audience sensibilities that over the top budget and cast do not make a film watchable. Actor Sivakarthikeyan is glowing with pride that his just released Kottukkaali (fresh from its showing at the 74th Berlin Festival) has garnered rave reviews from peers and patrons. Soori, the film’s main protagonist/antagonist has risen like a colossus from his earlier avatar as a comedian, sidekick. Bollywood and its bean counters are sure to be wondering if it is not big money, then what is the secret sauce of such small budget films. Simple themes but powerful storytelling.