On October 14, the team of Tamil film, Imsai Arasan 23-am Pulikesi, celebrated 100 days of its successful run at the box office, quite a rare feat. The last Tamil film that celebrated 100 days of success was Ajith's Tirupathi directed by Perarasu.

Filmmaker Shankar should be applauded for producing a film like Imsai Arasan, and giving a chance to first-time director, Simbudevan. The last film produced by Shankar's S Pictures, Kadhal, was also directed by a first-timer, Balaji Shaktivel. Shankar's faith in Balaji Shaktivel's simple story paid dividends; the movie was a huge hit.

Shankar also roped in comedian Vadivelu in the lead role, in a double role, in Imsai Arasan. In fact, it was Vadivelu who did not believe in the director or the offbeat story of kings and queens. The actor drove away the director several times; and relented only when he learnt that the film would be produced by Shankar.

On the 100th day of its release, Vadivelu confessed, "I was not sure how today's generation would react to such a movie. When Simbudevan approached me repeatedly, I thought he was sent by an enemy! Now I am proud that I am part of such a venture."

At the function, superstar Rajnikanth hailed each and every one who was part of the film. "It does not look like his first film at all," he said, referring to Simbudevan. "It is as if it was his 100th film."

Now, S Pictures' next film, Veyil, is even more eagerly awaited.

Text: Shobha Warrier