For SU Arun Kumar, the writing journey for his forthcoming film, Veera Dheera Sooran- Part 2 (VDS) deviated from his typical approach. Featuring Vikram in the lead role, the film is scheduled for release in theaters on Friday. Prior to this, the director engaged in a discussion. Arun Kumar revealed that he composed the initial 20 minutes of the film without a specific actor in mind, while the remainder was developed after Vikram joined the project.

“I do not usually write stories with a particular actor in mind, as I find that uncomfortable. I did write Sethupathi specifically for Vijay Sethupathi. In the case of Chithha, Siddharth and I agreed to collaborate on a film before starting the script, which allowed me to practice writing with a hero in mind. For VDS, my primary concern was ensuring the film had a grand appearance. It is not feasible to create a film like Chithha with Vikram sir involved, especially considering the scale and financial investment. Nevertheless, I focused on the narrative rather than succumbing to pressure. I crafted the character of Kaali independently of Vikram sir, but being mindful of the actor did assist me in shaping the story to fit a larger scale.”

‘When we are working with big stars, we cannot make films like Chithha and Pannaiyarum Padminiyum’

Arun Kumar possesses a deep understanding of the film industry, as he articulates, "When collaborating with prominent stars, it becomes unfeasible to create films like Chithha and Pannaiyarum Padminiyum. The presence of a star guarantees a larger audience for the film. It is crucial to carefully assess whether this increased visibility is beneficial or detrimental to the project. For instance, while Deivathirumagal may not cater to mass audiences, it is produced on a grander scale. If I were to cast Vikram sir in Chithha, the film would undoubtedly gain prominence, but I must evaluate whether this would be advantageous or not, and currently, I lack the experience to make that judgment."

When asked how he plans to avoid the trap of being expected to produce increasingly large films after working with stars, Arun Kumar responds, "I have a love story and a female-centric drama thriller in the pipeline. I prefer not to confine myself to a single genre and wish to explore various narratives. I firmly believe in not limiting my filmmaking approach. The financial compensation for directing a star-studded film differs significantly from that of a smaller project, and this is a choice that directors must navigate. Ultimately, what is most important is our personal satisfaction and the ability to discern when to decline a project and when to accept one."

‘If casting is done the right way, about 80% of the work is done’

Arun Kumar firmly asserts that effective casting is crucial to a film's success, claiming that it accounts for approximately 80% of the overall effort. He states, “Bringing in an unsuitable actor and relying on makeup to transform them into a character is not a practice I endorse. If a character is meant to be 50 years old, one should seek an actor who fits that description rather than attempting to age a 30-year-old with cosmetics. When casting is executed properly, a significant portion of the work is accomplished. The inclusion of SJ Suryah in a film is a strategic decision aimed at attracting audiences and enhancing marketability. However, I cannot cast someone who is entirely mismatched for the role and force them into it. A newcomer might have effectively portrayed the character after a few scenes, but with SJ Suryah, the connection is immediate from the very first scene. This is the advantage that established stars bring.” He further notes that even a simple frame featuring stars can elevate the film's grandeur.

The director, who views staging as the foundation of cinema, explains that the initial teaser for VDS was his method of immersing the audience in the film's universe. “While writing serves as the beginning, staging is the essential framework. Staging encompasses not only the positioning of actors but also the choice of lens and camera techniques” He cites a notable example from Chithha, where a top-angle shot captures a woman lying in bed alongside her daughter and brother-in-law without creating discomfort. “Had the camera been positioned outside the window, it would have conveyed a different perspective. Instead, we opted for a top-angle shot, which was the first of its kind in the film. I was determined that this would be the only instance where the camera would be elevated above eye level, emphasizing the sibling bond between the brother-in-law and sister-in-law.” Arun reflects on how his experience with Chithha taught him the significance of staging, leading him to become more discerning in his choices. “I learned the value of saying no, which is essential for creating the film you truly envision.”

Veera Dheera Sooran has a Baashha template

The filmmakers have made it clear that the forthcoming movie is a sequel, with its plot intricately linked to the prequel. Arun Kumar explains, “Once I completed the script, I realized it starts with a conflict, indicating a backstory. It resembles the experience of meeting strangers while traveling and eventually inquiring about their professions. One could say it aligns with the Baashha framework, where we explore the character's current situation before delving into their past. Each character experiences a back-and-forth dynamic, sharing histories with one another.”

With notable performances from actors such as Dushara Vijayan, Suraj Venjaramoodu, Siddique, and SJ Suryah, Arun Kumar acknowledges the challenges he faces as a writer in developing these characters. “I bear the responsibility of conveying the depth of all these actors. However, this challenge motivates me to craft more compelling character arcs, which ultimately benefits the film.”

In closing, Arun Kumar expresses his desire to pursue a love story he has been developing for some time. “Perhaps after the film's release, I will take some time to rejuvenate and then focus on that project. Veera Dheera Sooran: Part 1 will not be my next immediate endeavor.”

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