“No Underworld Theme For Ajith” Says Gautham

Along holiday in the English countryside and many accolades later, Gautham Vasudev Menon is a refreshed man. The director, who’s been scoring one hit after the other, is now swamped with offers to remake his latest hit, the Simbu-Trisha starrer Vinnaithaandi Varuvaayaa (VTV) in several languages. It’s now said that Prateik Babbar will be playing the lead in its Hindi version. “When it works out, I’ll be directing it. We’ll get a clear picture after the second week of June,” explains Gautham.
It’s the first time that a bilingual has got such a response in recent times. “I’m glad we were able to capture two markets, Telugu and Tamil, in one go. Most films only get dubbed in other languages,” he says.
The director is also being credited for giving Simbu a make-over. “Contrary to reports, Simbu was totally hassle-free and is a very competent actor. As for Trisha, she’s a good friend and a down-to-earth girl. She carried off the sari look really well,” says Gautham.
He’s also got enquiries from Bangalore for the remake rights of VTV. “Let’s see how it goes. Things need to be sorted out,” he says, adding, “I also hear that Kaakha Kaakha (KK) is being remade there. That’s good.” But the flick will not have Gautham wielding the megaphone. “I’m a bit sceptical about remaking a film that released eight years ago. Nishikant Kamath will be directing it,” says Gautham. Meanwhile, he’s wrapping up a thriller with Sameera Reddy and a newcomer, after which he’ll start working on Ajith’s 50th film. “When Ajith returns from the F2 circuit, we’ll get started. Reports of it having an underworld theme are false,” states Gautham.
Source: Times of India (Dated: 29-5-2010)