Though Tamil cinema is in a phase, in which directors are experimenting with unique genres and storylines, the subject of student politics and caste-based politics hasn’t been dealt with often. But, with the recently released Uriyadi, talented director/actor Vijay Kumar has proved that one can succeed despite handling sensitive subjects. The movie, which boasts of a young cast and crew, is flush with accolades from critics and audiences alike.
Vijay Kumar speaks to DC about his struggles to release the film, and how he has been overwhelmed by the response. “I’m a typical new-gen director — I left my engineering profession owing to my passion for films!” starts the young filmmaker. He adds, “I started off as a short film director in 2008. And, that was the time ‘Nalaiya Iyakunar’ also started and I participated in that. Though I couldn’t continue in that further due to various reasons, my thirst for making movies never died.” Speaking about how he chose such a different theme for his movie, he says, “For me, in any movie — be it romance, horror or thriller — the audience should take away something from it. That’s why I chose caste based politics.”
But, he says that the film had to face many hurdles on its way — “I consider Uriyadi as my child. But, it was insulted, made fun of and discouraged while shooting. I was very sure that good content would always reach people. So, I blindly trusted my team and produced the movie. Further, I want to convey my thanks to Nalan Kumarasamy as he’s the reason for the film to get recognised.” Vijay also says that he was completely moved when the movie was complimented through an unknown source. “When two of my actors were riding a bike, suddenly a beggar stopped them and said that he recognised them from the movie and said that he loved the movie very much. For me, that has been the best recognition so far,” he concludes.
