There’s a fresh wave of excitement making its way through the corridors of the international film community as Tamil cinema continues to push the boundaries, transcending linguistic and regional confines to emerge on the world stage. In a recent announcement that serves to corroborate this rising trend, RS Infotainment’s Elred Kumar has divulged that ‘Viduthalai Part I and II’ – the latest creations of acclaimed director Vetri Maaran – will be displayed for international audiences at the Rotterdam International Film Festival in 2024. The films are slated for exhibition on January 31 and February 3, respectively, and have been inducted into the festival’s esteemed Limelight category.
The presence of the ‘Viduthalai’ franchise at the Rotterdam International Film Festival is set to be a momentous occasion. Elred Kumar confirmed that he will attend the festival alongside Vetri Maaran and the starring duo of Vijay Sethupathi and Soori, bringing star power and creative brilliance to the event.
It is interesting to note that Soori is not just making waves with the ‘Viduthalai’ series; his future project ‘Kottukkaali’, directed by the acclaimed filmmaker PS Vinothraj of ‘Koozhangal’ fame, is also preparing to make its mark as the first Tamil film to have an international premiere at the 74th Berlin International Film Festival. This signifies a period of significant accomplishments for Tamil cinema on the global stage.
Elred Kumar, amidst palpable pride, articulated his thoughts on ‘Viduthalai I & II – The Film’ as it’s known in international circuits. He said, “It’s a pride and honor to be representing our Indian film industry at one of the world’s most prestigious events like the Rotterdam International Film Festival.” Kumar went on to express the sentiment that having the films screened at such a distinguished event is a realization of a long-held dream by many in the film industry, celebrating it as a notable achievement.
Highlighting the ascent of Tamil cinema to global recognition, Kumar praised the surge of content-driven movies that have been instrumental in widening its appeal. In particular, he lauded Vetri Maaran for his role in eroding the barriers of language and geography through his cinematic efforts, generating international buzz and allowing the filmmaker to conjure his directorial magic once more.
Commending the concerted effort and dedication of the entire team behind ‘Viduthalai’, Kumar expressed gratitude especially to Vijay Sethupathi and Soori for their unwavering support and hard work which has been elemental in bringing these projects to fruition.
‘Viduthalai Part 1’, which also stars Bhavani Sre, Gautham Vasudev Menon, Chetan, and Rajiv Menon in pivotal roles, had its initial release garnering positive reception. The eagerly anticipated sequel is projected for a summer 2024 release, stirring anticipation amongst audiences not only in Tamil Nadu but across India and now, evidently, around the globe.
These developments portray a vivid picture of Tamil cinema’s rising trajectory on international platforms. As ‘Viduthalai Part I and II’ prepare to captivate the diverse audience at the Rotterdam International Film Festival, it is clear that the impact of Indian cinema is broadening, bringing to the forefront the diverse narratives and storytelling prowess that the country’s regional cinemas have to offer. The exposure at Rotterdam heralds not just a triumph for Vetri Maaran and his team but serves as a beacon for the vast potential Indian films now have on the world’s cinematic map.
