'I like to portray human values in my films'

He worked as an assistant with Priyadarshan for four years. He then directed Kireedam. His second movie Madrasapattinam was acclaimed for its huge sets showing Chennai as it looked during the British Raj. His third movie Deiva Thirumagal is releasing this week.

In an interview with A. Ganesh Nadar, director Vijay talks about his directorial style and why he makes the kind of films he does.

How long did you work with Priyadarshan and what did you learn from him?

I worked with him for four years from 2003. Everything I know about film making I have learnt from him. He made me what I am today. I owe everything to him.

How do you choose the script for your movies?

I first think of the plot, then the screenplay and then the characters. I strongly believe in content and so always go for a good script. I like to portray human values in my films and choose the script accordingly.

How do you choose your actors? Do you like new faces or prefer established stars?

I have worked with new faces and with established stars. It depends on the script. I choose the stars according to what the script demands. Vikram was most suited to the role in Deiva Thirumagal so I chose him.

The sets of your movie Madrasapattinam were extraordinary. How difficult was it to put up such a huge set?

The set that was put up was basic. A lot of it was visualised on the computer. The rest was special effects. The end result was good and natural and so everyone liked it.

Is Deiva Thirumagal based on the English movie I am Sam starring Sean Penn?

Only the character is inspired by that film, not the story. Deiva Thirumagal is about love being more important than anything else. It deals with retardation.

How long did it take you to make Deiva Thirumagal?

The shooting took five months from start to finish. The idea was in my mind for four years, but I waited for Vikram to give me dates. I knew that he would be the best person to enact this particular character.

Vikram is a versatile actor. How was the experience of directing him?

He is fantastic. I learnt a lot from him. He took ten days to understand the character. He studied the character completely. He performed very well. He is outstanding.

How important is music in your movies?

Music plays a vital role in all my movies. In my latest movie the music by G V Prakash is mind blowing.

How much importance do you give to humour in your movies?

Humour is very natural in life; we cannot live without it. So even in movies humour has to be a part of it. My latest movie is a commercial family film and humour is very much part of it.

Why did you choose Amala Paul for this movie?

I saw Mynaa and liked her in that film. This is a powerful role and she has done a fantastic job.

Are fight scenes essential in every movie?

I do not think so. Action scenes are not essential. Fight scenes are a part of emotions and should be used only when the content requires it.

Will you always make big budget movies or are you prepared to do small budget films also?

The budget depends on the content of the script. I do not care whether it's big or small. I am prepared to do both.

Which is your next movie?

My next movie is also with Vikram. It is an action thriller. We have not named it yet.

What are your future plans?

I always believe in doing what I am best at. I like direction and will stick to it.