Rajinikanth Delivers Double the Mass, Comedy and Entertainment.

‘Jailer 2’ review: Nelson Dilipkumar brings Rajinikanth back in a grand, action-packed entertainer that surpasses the first film in comedy, screenplay, visuals and mass moments.

The first Jailer ended with Rajinikanth eliminating an idol-smuggling gang and shooting his own son, who had maintained ties with the gang. In this sequel, Rajinikanth sets out to destroy the entire idol-smuggling network and its powerful mastermind. Meanwhile, S. J. Suryah launches an intense investigation to discover who murdered Varma.

Jailer 2 narrates how the two parallel investigations affect the people around them, blending high-octane action with plenty of humour and thrilling moments.

Sequels to successful films do not always receive the same level of appreciation as their predecessors. However, Jailer 2 breaks that trend by delivering twice the entertainment, comedy, screenplay highlights, visual grandeur and mass appeal of the first instalment.

Rajinikanth plays a mature character perfectly suited to the story and carries the entire film with his commanding screen presence and signature style.

His calm dialogue delivery, effortless body language and measured performance demonstrate his mastery of the character. Even his smallest gestures capture the audience’s attention.

While the comedians deliver their lines, Rajinikanth often generates laughter through his reactions alone. He also brings out his trademark mannerisms at just the right moments, giving his fans plenty to celebrate.

Suraj Venjaramoodu plays a character reminiscent of Varma from the first instalment. His intimidating performance adds considerable strength to the screenplay, while his comic timing sparks several explosive bursts of laughter.

S. J. Suryah, Mithun Chakraborty and Vidya Balan significantly enhance the film’s scale and grandeur with their screen presence.

The comedy combination of Yogi Babu and Namo Narayana generates plenty of laugh-out-loud moments.

Their scenes are among the highlights of the first half, with their comic exchanges repeatedly sending waves of laughter through the theatre.

Ramya Krishnan, Mirnaa and the other supporting cast members also perform their roles effectively, contributing to the smooth progression of the screenplay.

Cinematographer Vijay Kartik Kannan effectively conveys the scale of a big-budget production. The colourful visuals, grand compositions and impressive presentation of characters and settings make the film visually engaging.

Anirudh Ravichander’s songs are energetic and lively. His background score amplifies the suspense and pace of the screenplay while adding extra impact to the film’s mass moments.

Editor R. Nirmal keeps the narrative moving swiftly from beginning to end. The film maintains its pace and excitement without noticeable slowdowns, reflecting his strong understanding of the director’s storytelling approach.

Director Nelson Dilipkumar takes what may appear to be a simple one-line premise and transforms it into a complete commercial entertainer by balancing mass moments, grandeur, action and comedy.

He demonstrates a clear understanding of how to present Rajinikanth and make the most of the superstar’s unique screen appeal.

The film also features several prominent actors in special appearances. Nelson uses them effectively, placing their appearances at the right moments and designing powerful mass sequences for them. This approach consistently draws the audience’s attention back to the screen.

Even minor dialogues are crafted to trigger spontaneous laughter. Through his visual storytelling and carefully composed frames, Nelson once again demonstrates that cinema is fundamentally a visual medium.

Ultimately, Jailer 2 succeeds in entertaining not only Rajinikanth’s fans but also audiences who enjoy action-packed commercial films with humour, spectacle and star power.

Jailer 2 is a grand commercial entertainer that combines Rajinikanth’s charisma, Nelson Dilipkumar’s signature humour, Anirudh’s energetic music and a strong supporting cast. By balancing action, comedy and spectacular star appearances, the film delivers an entertaining cinematic experience that aims to surpass its predecessor.

The shooting of Thiagaraja Talkies – Production No. 1, produced by Thiagaraja Talkies and featuring popular Tamil actor Jai in the lead role, commenced with a traditional pooja ceremony in Tenkasi.

Directed by debutant filmmaker Siva Prasanna, the film stars Jai as the protagonist, with actress Delna Davis playing the female lead.

Vijay Ulaganath is handling the cinematography, Jayachandran is responsible for the art direction, and V. J. Sabu Joseph is overseeing the editing. The horror-comedy film is being produced by A. M. Prabhakaran under the banner of Thiagaraja Talkies.

Grand Launch Ceremony in Tenkasi

The film’s shooting began in Tenkasi following traditional customs.

Tenkasi District Collector Mr. Ranjit Singh, IAS, attended the ceremony as the chief guest and operated the camera to mark the commencement of filming. In the presence of industrialist S. Saminatha Pandian, producer A. M. Prabhakaran gave the first clap and officially launched the shoot.

The filmmakers have announced that the shooting, which began in Tenkasi, will continue for 23 consecutive days from today.

The collaboration between Thiagaraja Talkies, debutant director Siva Prasanna and actor Jai has generated considerable anticipation among fans and industry trade circles, as the film is being developed as a horror-comedy entertainer.

Cast

• Jai – Lead actor

• Delna Davis – Female lead

Technical Crew

• Production House: Thiagaraja Talkies

• Producer: A. M. Prabhakaran

• Director: Siva Prasanna (Debut)

• Cinematographer: Vijay Ulaganath

• Editor: V. J. Sabu Joseph

• Production Executive: Rangaraj Perumal

• Art Director: Jayachandran

• Stunt Choreographer: Ram Kumar

• Stills Photographer: Anandan

• Costume Designer: Abinandhini M

• Executive Producer (EP): Ilango Ekambaram

• Chief Production Executive: K. S. Hemraj

• Makeup Artist: S. A. Shanmugam

With its horror-comedy premise and Jai in the lead, Thiagaraja Talkies – Production No. 1 is expected to offer audiences an entertaining cinematic experience. Further updates about the film are awaited.

Actor Sivakarthikeyan gave the first clap, while Elred Kumar of RS Infotainment, the producer of Mandadi, operated the camera to mark the commencement of the film.

Actor Soori, who has been winning both critical acclaim and commercial success by choosing films with distinctive storylines, is set to star in a new project produced by Mythri Movie Makers, a production house renowned for delivering blockbuster entertainers. The collaboration has already generated considerable anticipation.

This is the seventh film in which Soori plays the lead role and the fourth Tamil film produced by Mythri Movie Makers, led by Naveen Yerneni and Y. Ravi Shankar. The film has been tentatively titled ** Soori 7 **.

The grand launch ceremony took place in Chennai on October 14, with several prominent personalities from the Tamil film industry in attendance. Sivakarthikeyan gave the first clap, while producer Elred Kumar operated the camera to officially commence the project.

Among those who attended the event were producer Elred Kumar, director Mathimaran, Lyca Productions’ Tamil Kumaran, director Keerthiswaran, Bijoy Arputharaj of Phantom Films, directors A.R.K. Saravanan, Nalan Kumarasamy, Mithran, Vetrimaaran and Ramkumar, along with producer Arun Viswa and several others.

Director Ravikumar Teams Up with Soori

Director Ravikumar, who carved out a distinct place for himself in Tamil cinema with successful films such as Indru Netru Naalai and Ayalaan, will helm this project.

Known for presenting innovative concepts with humour and creating films that appeal to audiences across all age groups, Ravikumar’s collaboration with Soori has raised expectations among fans.

Producer Naveen Yerneni’s Statement

Despite being busy with the pre-release work for Ranabali, producer Naveen Yerneni travelled to Chennai to attend the film’s pooja ceremony.

Sharing his thoughts on the occasion, he said:

“The success and reception of our Tamil films, including Good Bad Ugly, Dude, Motha Rathiri and Irumudi, have increased my enthusiasm for producing more films in this language. We are now producing a new film starring Soori.

“Sivakarthikeyan attended the event as a special guest. It was wonderful to witness the friendship and affection between him and Soori. I would like to thank producer Elred Kumar and all the film industry personalities who attended the event.”

Director Ravikumar’s Statement

Director Ravikumar expressed his happiness about working with Mythri Movie Makers, one of the leading production houses in Indian cinema.

He said:

“I am delighted to have the opportunity to work with a leading production house like Mythri Movie Makers. My heartfelt thanks to producers Naveen Yerneni and Y. Ravi Shankar for giving me this opportunity.

“Soori has carved out a unique place for himself as a leading actor. I have an added responsibility to present him on screen in a way that does justice to his talent and the expectations of his fans.

“I would also like to thank Sivakarthikeyan sir, producer Elred Kumar sir, and Mathimaran, Tamil Kumaran, Keerthiswaran, Bijoy Arputharaj, A.R.K. Saravanan, Nalan Kumarasamy, Mithran, Vetrimaaran, Arun Viswa, Karan Aravind Kumar and everyone else who attended the event.

“We are beginning this film with great enthusiasm. I am confident that audiences will enjoy it.”

Soori Embarks on a New Chapter in His Career

With films such as Viduthalai Part 1, Viduthalai Part 2, Garudan, Kottukkaali and Maaman, actor Soori has established a distinct identity as a lead actor by choosing films that place strong emphasis on storytelling and character development.

His recent release, Mandadi, has further strengthened his position at the box office.

Now, with Soori 7, the actor is set to begin another new chapter in his cinematic journey. Expectations are growing regarding the story and character he has chosen for this project.

Mythri Movie Makers Expands Its Presence in Tamil Cinema

Mythri Movie Makers, a production house known for producing blockbusters, has also been delivering successful films in Tamil cinema.

Following the blockbuster success of its first Tamil film, Good Bad Ugly, the production house has received a positive response to projects such as Dude and Motha Rathiri.

The encouragement from these successes and the warm reception from audiences have further motivated the company to produce more Tamil films.

Rajisha Vijayan to Play the Female Lead

Actress Rajisha Vijayan will star opposite Soori in the film.

Further details, including the official title, the rest of the cast and the technical crew, will be announced officially soon.

Minister Rajmohan’s Speech

Minister Rajmohan said:

“I am delighted that a film starring my younger brother Aegan is releasing in a theatre where many of Thalapathy Vijay’s films have been screened. Aegan is a hardworking person. My heartfelt wishes to the director, the entire film crew and today’s hero, Sidhu.

Recently, we have not seen many films that combine meaningful messages with entertainment. Haiku will fill that gap. I wish the film tremendous success.”

Producer Kalaipuli S. Thanu’s Speech

Producer Kalaipuli S. Thanu said:

“The film beautifully captures the emotional similarities and differences between two characters. Sidhu has composed wonderful music for it, and the songs are also excellent. I am confident that the film will achieve great success. Aegan will go on to reach great heights.”

Lyricist Mohanraja’s Speech

Lyricist Mohanraja said:

“Congratulations to the director for choosing this title. Haiku represents a form of poetic insight and love. I personally enjoy many haiku poems, and I believe this poetic form should be introduced to the younger generation as well.

I thank Sidhu for giving me the opportunity to be part of this film. I wish Aegan even greater success in his career.”

Music Composer Sidhu Kumar’s Speech

Music composer Sidhu Kumar said:

“Haiku is my 15th film. I thank my family and friends for their support. Vision Cinema House has always been special to me.

Aegan is a wonderful person, and I believe he will achieve a prominent position in Tamil cinema. My thanks to all the actors and members of the film crew. I am confident that everyone will enjoy this movie.”

Director Sasi’s Speech

Director Sasi said:

“Haiku has a simple storyline. The director has portrayed two different kinds of love with great sensitivity, and the actors have delivered excellent performances.

Congratulations to the director and the cast. I am sure this film will become a milestone for the entire team.”

Producer Dhananjayan’s Speech

Producer Dhananjayan said:

“I have watched Haiku, and I found it to be a poetic film with a fresh storyline. It presents love from a completely different perspective.

Congratulations to director Yuvaraj for bringing such a unique story to the screen. Both the female leads are charming, and I extend my best wishes to the entire team.”

Actor Adhichchi Arun’s Speech

Actor Adhichchi Arun said:

“I thank producer Arul sir and the director for giving me the opportunity to act in Haiku.

Malayalam films and Malayalam actors often receive a warm reception when they enter Tamil cinema. In that regard, I believe heroine Femina will also win the hearts of Tamil audiences. Sridevi is a talented actress.

Aegan is like a younger brother to me, and I believe he will become a major star. We need everyone’s support to make this film successful.”

Director Ponram’s Speech

Director Ponram said:

“Haiku is a different kind of love story. The idea of having just one male student in a women’s college was particularly interesting.

The trailer was entertaining, with a good mix of comedy and romance. Sidhu’s music is excellent. Aegan is a black diamond, and I am confident he will reach great heights.

Femina and Sridevi are wonderful performers. Producer Arul sir has made the film on a grand scale, with colourful visuals and impressive production values. My best wishes to the entire team.”

Actress Femina George’s Speech

Actress Femina George said:

“The first Tamil film I watched was Thalapathy Vijay’s Thulladha Manamum Thullum. Haiku is a very special film to me.

Aegan is an excellent actor. Sridevi and I worked together for one day on this film. I thank the entire crew for the experience.

I would also like to thank Suresh Chandra sir for bringing me on board. Sidhu’s music is fantastic, and I believe audiences will enjoy the film.

I hope Haiku becomes a film that makes my family proud.”

Actress Sridevi’s Speech

Actress Sridevi said:

“Haiku marks my debut in Tamil cinema. I thank the producer and director for believing in me and giving me this opportunity.”

RJ Nidhi’s Speech

RJ Nidhi said:

“This is my first film, and I thank director Yuvaraj and Vision Cinema House for giving me this opportunity.

Sidhu has done an excellent job with the music. Aegan, Arun and everyone else kept the atmosphere lively and entertaining throughout the shoot.

The film will be released on October 23. I look forward to the audience’s response.”

Director Yuvaraj Chinnasamy’s Speech

Director Yuvaraj Chinnasamy said:

“I thank producer Arul sir for giving me complete freedom without imposing too many conditions.

I am grateful to the entire team for their cooperation. Sidhu’s music album has turned out wonderfully.

I also thank Aegan, Femina and Sridevi for trusting me and bringing everything I envisioned for the film to life.”

Producer Dr. T. Arulanandhu’s Speech

Producer Dr. T. Arulanandhu said:

“Haiku is the third film produced by Vision Cinema House.

Aegan has dedicated 18 years of hard work to establishing himself in cinema. I have always told him that only good acting will help him sustain a long career in the industry.

Yuvaraj has delivered exactly what he promised me, and I am very happy with the film.

Sidhu will compose the music for the next five films from Vision Cinema House as well. The music in Haiku has a poetic quality.

My congratulations to everyone who worked hard to make this film.”

Actor Aegan’s Speech

Actor Aegan said:

“Adhichchi Arun and I have been friends for many years. We have acted together in several web series, and now we have worked together in Haiku as well.

I thank Sidhu sir for giving us wonderful songs.

I would like to tell both my heroines to trust the director. I am sure both of you will achieve great success.

I thank my father for supporting me throughout my journey. Please watch the film on October 23 and share your feedback.”

Sakthivelan of Sakthi Film Factory’s Speech

Sakthivelan of Sakthi Film Factory said:

“Vision Cinema House is a production house that filmmakers can trust. They put tremendous hard work into every project they undertake.

I am confident that Haiku will achieve success.”

About ‘Haiku’

Haiku is an upcoming Tamil romantic entertainer directed by Yuvaraj Chinnasamy and produced by Dr. T. Arulanandhu and Matthew Arulanandhu under the Vision Cinema House banner. Featuring Aegan, Sridevi and Femina George in lead roles, the film explores love from a fresh perspective, blending romance, comedy and emotional depth.

The film is scheduled to release worldwide in theatres on October 23.

The film’s music was jointly launched by Taka Hasi, Deputy Consul General of Japan in Chennai, and film producer Aditya Ram. Producer Kannan Ravi received the audio launch materials.

Directed by debutant Thanjai JPR, American Aavi features actor Napoleon in the lead role, alongside more than 200 newcomers living in the United States. Prabhu, popularly known as Nash Will Prabhu, has handled the cinematography, while Aadhish Uthriyan has composed the music. Vinu is in charge of editing, and Indhu Rajkumar has served as the art director.

Produced as a comedy-horror thriller, the film is jointly produced by Dhanush Napoleon and Kunal Napoleon under the Jeevan Films banner.

The makers take pride in presenting it as the first Tamil film to be shot entirely in the United States. The film is scheduled for a worldwide theatrical release soon. The audio and trailer launch event took place at the Kamala Theatre complex in Chennai, with members of the film crew and several prominent personalities from the Tamil film industry attending as special guests.

Producer Kunal Napoleon’s Speech

Speaking at the event, producer Kunal Napoleon said:

“If I have to describe this film, I would say it is something different. This is the first Tamil film to have been shot entirely in America. I was amazed to discover the immense talent hidden among our people living in the United States.

This is no small achievement. Everyone worked on this film during the limited free time they had after attending to their regular jobs. Thinking about their dedication makes all of us proud.

Let me also explain the title, American Aavi. When we hear the word ‘Aavi’, we usually think of ghosts, and ghosts are indeed part of this film. At the same time, the word has another significance in the American context.

People from many countries have immigrated to America. Many of them have achieved success through their determination and hard work. They are people who constantly strive towards success and accomplish their goals through perseverance. Characters representing this aspect are also part of our film.

So, this movie has ghosts and spirits, along with several other interesting elements.

There is another interesting aspect to this film. Dhanush Napoleon is the co-producer. To tell you the truth, he is actually my boss! He could not attend this event in person, but he is watching it live.

He has sent a message to audiences asking everyone to visit theatres with their families and enjoy the film. It is our responsibility to make this movie a success.”

Actor Napoleon’s Speech

Actor Napoleon said:

“Approximately 200 newcomers have made their debut in this film. They include Anto, Dhiyan, Arloo, Prema, Biju, Mahesh, Bablu, Arun Antony, Sam Anto, Prakash, Aishwarya, Rajkumar, Indhu Rajkumar, Rahul, Hemamalini, Urvashi and Maithili, among many others. Only a few of them have been able to attend this event.

Everyone who acted in this film is a software engineer, doctor, scientist, professor or professional working in a senior position at a major organisation. We made this film in just 75 days by carefully utilising the time they could spare for us.

From Monday to Friday, they are all extremely busy with their professional commitments. We planned the shooting schedules carefully and conducted filming during the time they were able to allocate.

It was certainly a challenging task. Many of the people who acted in this film had never even watched a film shoot in person before coming to America. The director and I trained them and helped them perform their roles.

In the film Bharatha Vilas, starring Sivaji Ganesan, people representing different parts of India appeared together. In our film, people from across the world have come together. Participants from more than 40 countries have acted in this movie. That makes it truly unique. At the same time, it will be thoroughly entertaining.

When Sun TV began its live telecast in 1994, director Pandiarajan and I travelled to Manila in the Philippines to inaugurate the broadcast. The close friendship we developed that day continues to this day.

I thank him for attending this event and extending his wishes to our team. I also thank everyone who came here to support us.”

Debut Actor Mahesh’s Speech

Mahesh, one of the debut actors, said:

“In January, Napoleon sir asked all of us to come dressed in a particular outfit. We thought an audition was going to take place. But he told us that there would be no auditions and that we could all act in the film.

After that, Napoleon sir taught everyone how to act. Watching him perform scenes for us as a demonstration was an unforgettable experience.

We also had the opportunity to observe and appreciate the various technical aspects involved in making a film.

Interestingly, my own mother played Napoleon sir’s mother in the movie. That makes me very proud. We are all eagerly waiting to watch the film.”

Director Thanjai JPR’s Speech

Director Thanjai JPR recalled his early fascination with cinema:

“When I was just nine years old, I used to take old film reels and project images onto a wall using sunlight. That was how my interest in film direction began.

Later, I produced and directed a film titled Onaigal Jaakirathai. Subsequently, due to family circumstances, I settled in America.

I was worried that living there might sever my connection with cinema. Therefore, I continued writing stories even after moving abroad.

During this period, I had an opportunity to meet Napoleon. I narrated a story to him, and he liked it very much. However, he told me that he could not leave Dhanush and come out to act in films.

He then asked whether we could make a film entirely in America and whether I had a suitable story.

After lunch, he showed me the house he had recently purchased. It was a magnificent property spread across three and a half acres. Surrounded by trees, the house looked as though it belonged in an English-language movie.

He asked whether I could develop a story centred around that house. I told him I could and returned a week later with a story. He liked it very much but insisted that it should not be a conventional horror film. He wanted a horror movie blended with comedy.

We then developed the story together. Napoleon and his sons, Kunal and Dhanush, worked with me to shape it into an entertaining screenplay.

I thank all the technicians, actors and actresses who worked on this film.”

Cinematographer Nash Will Prabhu’s Speech

Cinematographer Nash Will Prabhu, whose full name is Prabhu Thoppudu Amaresan, said:

“I would like to thank my grandfather, T. S. Amaresan, who directed stage plays featuring R. S. Manohar. He passed away in the 1920s. If he were alive today, he would have been extremely happy to see me.

In Chennai, I shared a room with cinematographer Manoj Paramahamsa and filmmaker Arivazhagan, who are now well-known in the industry. Through that experience, I became familiar with camera lenses, lighting and other technical aspects.

After moving to America, I began filming small events. That was when I met Napoleon. I subsequently worked as a cameraman at various family functions.

Later, I filmed Dhanush’s wedding in Japan. Napoleon gradually encouraged me, helped me develop my skills and introduced me as a cinematographer. I am grateful to him for that opportunity.”

FEFSI President R. K. Selvamani’s Speech

Director R. K. Selvamani, president of the Film Employees Federation of South India (FEFSI), said:

“Watching this film in a theatre reminded me of My Dear Kuttichathaan. I have already watched the movie.

Introducing one newcomer in a film is relatively easy. However, introducing an entire cast of newcomers and teaching all of them how to act is an extraordinarily difficult task.

The filmmakers gave everyone confidence on the shooting floor and brought out their acting abilities. In particular, everyone performed the dance sequences in rhythm and in unison. This demonstrated their enthusiasm for acting. I would like to thank dance choreographer Kala Master for her contribution.

Napoleon is someone who believes that whatever work he undertakes must be done properly. Whether as an actor, a politician or the president of an association, he always strives to perform his responsibilities well. He is a genuinely good human being.

The film’s heroine is a doctor in America, and the shooting took place at her house. She participated in filming during her free time, while the crew waited for her availability.

The climax features an impressive action sequence choreographed by stunt director P. C. Stunt.

I believe this film will achieve great success.”

Roja Selvamani’s Speech

Mrs. Roja Selvamani said:

“I acted alongside Napoleon in the film Veettoda Maappillai, directed by V. Sekar. He is my co-star, and no matter how much I say about him, it will never be enough.

He is a good artist, a good politician, a good businessman, a good father and, above all, a wonderful human being.

As a fellow actor, I am delighted to see Napoleon return to the screen after a long time.

I have also resumed acting after a gap of 12 years. Once an artist becomes accustomed to the audience, cameras and shooting locations, giving all of that up can be difficult. Despite our family responsibilities, returning to films for the sake of our fans and our love for art makes us happy.

Napoleon is returning to audiences with a good story, and we should all support him. Everyone should help make this film successful through word-of-mouth recommendations and social media promotion.

My daughter and I are usually frightened of horror films. Nevertheless, we watched this movie and enjoyed it.”

Actor Nassar’s Speech

Actor Nassar said:

“My journey with Napoleon began with the film Kizhakkum Merkkum, and our association has continued for more than 30 years.

During that film, we spent almost 30 days together. Napoleon was the same person then as he is today. He has lived the life he planned for himself, and I am extremely proud of him for that.

Some titles and reputations are difficult to earn. Through hard work, a person can become wealthy, and through dedicated acting, someone can become a superstar. But when people speak about Napoleon, they naturally add the word ‘good’ before describing him. Not everyone earns that kind of reputation.

When my son met with an accident, Napoleon was one of the people who gave me immense emotional support. His reputation as a good person is shared by his wife as well.

On behalf of the South Indian Artistes’ Association, I express my heartfelt gratitude to him. When the association needed support for its building, he voluntarily contributed ₹1 crore as a deposit without anyone having to ask him.

In the trailer, Napoleon looks remarkably youthful.

I recently wrote an article for a magazine about children’s films in India. The percentage of films made specifically for children is extremely low. We have not created enough films for young audiences.

I believe this movie could be a film for children and families. I request children to bring their parents along and enjoy the movie.

My thanks to Nash Will Prabhu and everyone who travelled here to participate in this event.”

Producer T. Siva’s Speech

Producer T. Siva said:

“From the very beginning of his acting career, Napoleon earned a reputation not only as a good actor but also as a good human being. He found a place in everyone’s hearts.

When he served as vice-president of the actors’ association, he worked extremely hard for its activities. Whatever responsibility he undertakes, he approaches it like a disciplined soldier.

I have watched this film, and it certainly has plenty of entertainment. I believe it has the potential to become a successful commercial film.

Napoleon was also the first person to contribute to the construction of FEFSI’s building. The film industry should organise a special felicitation ceremony to honour him.

In my experience in the film industry, two of the genuinely good people I have known are Vijayakanth and Napoleon.

Thank you all.”

Dance Choreographer Kala Master’s Speech

Kala Master said:

“Only three songs were screened at this event, but there are several more songs in the film.

No matter how much Napoleon and I taught them, I am grateful that everyone learned the steps and performed them so well.

Napoleon has been a close family friend of mine for 30 years. He has contributed financially not only to the actors’ association but also to our dance choreographers’ association.

As Nassar and producer Siva mentioned, Napoleon is a wonderful human being. His wife, Sudha, is equally kind. I have known her since the time of their marriage, and she has always been cheerful.

This is not merely a film about ghosts. It is a beautiful family entertainer.

I am confident that the film will become a superhit.”

Music Director Aadhish Uthriyan’s Speech

Music director Aadhish Uthriyan said:

“Through director JPR, I had the opportunity to meet Napoleon and compose music for this film. This movie is a milestone in my career as a film music composer.

The film features five songs.

Thank you to everyone who gave me this opportunity.”

Lyricist Snehan’s Speech

Lyricist Snehan said:

“This stage is a celebration of immense affection and love. I could speak about Napoleon for hours.

I have shared a great deal of information with him through WhatsApp, and I feel a bond with him similar to that of a biological brother.

I am delighted to have played a small part in a film created by such wonderful people working together.

I look forward to another opportunity to celebrate and appreciate him. Thank you all.”

Director R. V. Udayakumar’s Speech

Director R. V. Udayakumar recalled how he introduced Napoleon to a memorable role in Ejamaan:

“When Napoleon was acting in Pudhu Nellu Pudhu Naathu, I was directing Urudhi Mozhi. Cinematographer Ravi Yadav introduced me to a tall, slim man and said, ‘This is Kumaresan.’

I promised him then that I would cast him as a major villain in a film.

Later, I cast him in Ejamaan, although I had to fight hard to get the role approved. Even Rajinikanth sir initially felt that Napoleon should not play that character.

I explained why Napoleon was the right choice for the role. Once Rajinikanth sir heard my reasoning, he acknowledged that the idea was new. I made several changes to the story to accommodate Napoleon.

One of the dialogues he delivered in that film, beginning with a reference to a wedding house and the groom, remains popular even today.

Unfortunately, I had the opportunity to work with him in only that one film, but it was a satisfying experience.

Coming to American Aavi, the team has not revealed who the ghost is! In the film’s poster, Napoleon looks like Clint Eastwood.

We have heard of all kinds of ghosts: old ghosts, good ghosts, evil ghosts, young ghosts, ghosts of people who died in accidents, ghosts of people who died after heartbreak, and even ghosts of people who died without being able to buy a house.

I do not know which of these is the ‘American ghost’. Whatever kind of ghost it turns out to be, I am sure Napoleon will present us with a memorable one.

I wish the film great success.”

About the film: American Aavi is a comedy-horror thriller featuring Napoleon and more than 200 newcomers from the United States and other countries. Shot entirely in America, the film brings together people from diverse professional backgrounds and more than 40 countries. The makers plan to release it in theatres worldwide soon.

The story unfolds through a group of college students who visit a village to document its history. What began as a small settlement on the banks of a river gradually developed into a village inhabited by numerous families. The descendants of the family that first settled there have traditionally served as the village headmen for generations.

Twin boys born into this family are named Amavasai and Pournami. As they grow older, they divide the village’s authority between themselves. One serves as the headman from Amavasai to Pournami, while the other takes charge during the remaining days. The village’s panchayat functions according to this unusual arrangement.

Meanwhile, two young lovers from the village face opposition to their relationship. They leave their hometown, get married, and eventually return. However, the village headmen ostracise them and refuse to allow them to live as part of the community.

A young man who stands up for his friend questions the injustice of this decision and challenges the headmen’s authority. In response, they impose an unusual condition: the couple’s family will be allowed back into the village only if he defeats one of the headmen in a traditional game called Kottipul.

Having never played the game before, the protagonist begins learning its techniques and prepares to take on the challenge. Does he succeed? Can he put an end to the headmen’s authority? Will the ostracised family be allowed to return to the village? The rest of the film answers these questions.

Performances

Jai, who plays Vishnu, delivers a performance suited to the role of a simple village youth. He brings out the character’s qualities in scenes where he stands up for his friend and confronts the village headmen.

Vinosehree, who plays the female lead Kayalvizhi, portrays the natural mannerisms of a village girl.

The two village headmen are among the film’s biggest strengths. Prabhakaran, who plays Amavasai, makes a strong impression through his authoritative demeanour and antagonistic behaviour. Kesavan, who plays Pournami, also handles his role effectively and provides a fitting counterpart to Amavasai. The panchayat scenes built around these two characters give the film a distinctive identity.

The comedy sequences featuring Spanner Pandi and Nattu Bolt lighten the seriousness of the story and provide moments of amusement. Kannan, who plays the character known as America, also contributes to the humour. Rangan, in particular, delivers comedy through his facial expressions and body language in his role as a mute character.

Technical Aspects

Natural visuals are an important element of films centred on rural life. In this regard, Mohandas’s cinematography captures the village atmosphere and the everyday lives of its residents. He has also handled the film’s editing.

The music by Divakar and Rajiv complements the emotions of the rural narrative. The songs fit the situations in which they appear. The lyrics by Rajiv and Mohandas, along with Rajun’s art direction, contribute to the film’s overall atmosphere.

Direction and Screenplay

Although the central idea of Panchayathu Patti is simple, director Mohandas has chosen an unusual setting in which to tell the story.

Village-headman dramas typically revolve around power struggles, family feuds, or property disputes. In contrast, this film attempts to resolve a conflict arising from a love marriage and the village’s restrictive customs through a game of Kottipul. This unusual premise is one of the film’s more interesting aspects.

The film can also be seen as an attempt to remind today’s younger generation of a traditional game that was once popular in rural communities. Kottipul is not merely a game here; it becomes a weapon that the protagonist uses to fight for his friend’s rights.

The director’s approach is evident in the way he uses comedy to address issues such as the headmen’s authority, restrictive village customs, and the punishment imposed on the lovers. The story also conveys the idea that decisions made by those in positions of power are not necessarily fair or just.

Rather than relying on grand spectacle or high-octane fight sequences, the director attempts to create an entertaining film using rural characters, their conflicts, and humorous incidents.

Although some developments in the story are predictable, the unusual division of authority between the two headmen and the events surrounding the Kottipul competition provide a reasonable degree of interest. The film could have been more engaging with a brisker screenplay and greater freshness in its comedy sequences.

Nevertheless, the director deserves appreciation for his attempt to tell a simple story with humour against a rural backdrop.