Actor Karthi’s upcoming film Vaa Vaathiyar, directed by Nalan Kumarasamy, has locked its theatrical release for December 12. Produced by K.E. Gnanavel Raja under the Studio Green banner, the film features Karthi in a role inspired by the legendary MGR, paying homage to the late icon’s enduring legacy.
The pre-release event in Chennai saw the cast and crew sharing insights into the project, which marks Kumarasamy’s return to direction after nearly a decade. Karthi admitted he initially hesitated to take on the role. “I was scared how I could pull off the role in Vaa Vaathiyar as it was a risky subject and a huge challenge. It is like walking on a sword,” Karthi said. He noted that the film is a tribute to MGR’s principles, particularly his onscreen discipline regarding vices like smoking and drinking. “MGR is an emotion. Vaa Vaathiyar is a tribute to the iconic MGR,” he added.
Director Nalan Kumarasamy described the film as a thematic follow-up to his debut Soodhu Kavvum. While his first film lived up to the phrase “Soodhu Kavvum” (Evil will entrap), he stated that Vaa Vaathiyar fulfills the second half of that adage: “Dharmam Vellum” (Righteousness will win).
The ensemble cast includes Sathyaraj, who plays a character referred to as “Mottai Boss,” alongside Krithi Shetty, making her Tamil debut. Veteran actors Rajkiran, Anandaraj, and Shilpa Manjunath also feature in pivotal roles. The technical crew includes composer Santhosh Narayanan, cinematographer George C. Williams, and editor Vetre Krishnan. Stunt master Anal Arasu choreographed the action sequences, while T.R.K. Kiran handled art direction.