Ayalaan actor Sivakarthikeyan: I do not want to be part of ‘A’ rated subjects

Sivakarthikeyan in a still from the recently released sci-fi thriller Ayalaan, to be released in Telugu soon.

Tamil actor Sivakarthikeyan has carved a niche for himself with his versatile talents as an actor, comedian, and television host. The 38-year-old Sivakarthikeyan initially started his career as a stand-up comedian and forayed into films with supporting roles, but it was his lead role in the film Marina (2012) that made audiences notice him and marked a turning point for his career.

Since then, he has delivered a string of successful films, across genres. His notable works include Varuthapadatha Valibar Sangam (2013), Kaaki Sattai (2015), and Velaikkaran (2017). Apart from acting, Sivakarthikeyan has also endeared himself to his audiences as a television host, notably for the show Athu Ithu Ethu. His recently released Tamil film, to be released in Telugu soon, is the sci-fi thriller Ayalaan which hit the screens recently after much delay and making headlines for more than six years. In a telephonic interview, the actor talks about . Edited excerpts:

Ayalaan was started in 2017 and was released in 2024. What took so long?

The story came to me in 2017 and that is when I said yes. But later, once we started the script work and by the time the shoot started, it was 2019 and then came COVID-19. So everything was left where it was. And we had to resume after COVID. But a lot of things, even the market, technology, etc., changed by then. So, we had to rework the script. This movie is dependent on VFX and that itself took eight-10 months. So, now, you know where and why it took so long.

Many actors do not stick to their commitment. What made you stick to yours for such a long period?

I loved the storyline. In 2023, it will be full of technology, AI, VFX, etc. But I knew the vision of the director when he came to me in 2017. I just loved it. And also, he was sure about making the film with me only. If not with me, he was not ready to narrate it to anyone else. Both of us put our blood and sweat into this. It is my commitment and passion towards cinema that makes me stick to what I have promised. Director Ravikumar’s vision fuelled the project, along with the aspiration to create a film with high visual effects within a limited budget. Ayalaan boasts of more VFX shots than iconic movies like Robo and 2.O.

A still from Ayalaan.

Were there concerns about the storyline leaking due to the extended production?

While there were minor doubts, the core interaction between the alien and human characters remains unique. Despite scenes being shot earlier, the film's script idea is novel, as affirmed by the positive reception in Tamil Nadu.

How did you ensure the film would appeal to both Tamil and Telugu audiences?

Ayalaan holds a universal concept, particularly focusing on the interaction between humans and aliens, making it relatable to audiences worldwide. The film's success in Tamil Nadu instils confidence in its reception in Telugu.

A still from Ayalaan.

With a delayed release in Telugu post-Sankranti, what are your thoughts on its reception?

We strategically avoided the Sankranti competition in Telugu, believing that the film's content would stand out. Similar successes in the past, like Love Today (2022) and Abhimanyudu (2018), after delayed releases, affirm that good content prevails.

What motivated you during the five-year journey of making Ayalaan?

The belief that a high-concept film could be achieved within a limited budget, with the right team and idea, served as the primary motivation. The success of such films can attract larger budgets for future projects.

Can you share details about the graphics-intensive nature of the film?

Approximately, 90 per cent of Ayalaan involves graphics, with 70 per cent of the movie featuring an alien character. The majority of the film relies on visual effects to bring the storyline to life. As I already said, the film has 4,500 VFX shots. I don't think any Indian film, to date, has so many VFX shots.

Was AR Rahman your first choice as the music director, and how was the experience working with him?

Yes, Rahman was the first choice. Working with him on my first film was a dream come true. His dedication and motivation, even until the last second before release, enhanced the overall experience. I am a huge fan of his.

You guys even made Rahman dance to one of the songs. How did you manage to?

Dance Master Sandy facilitated Rahman's dance, making it happen for a promotional song. We danced with Rahman for two hours, and he showcased remarkable agility — perhaps, a hidden talent!

What message would you like to convey to the audience about Ayalaan?

Ayalaan is not just a movie; it's like stepping into a theme park — a comfortable jolly ride that you can enjoy for two and a half hours. Even a sequel is in the works, aiming for an even grander scale. The success of the film in Tamil Nadu has inspired us to dream bigger.

Actor Sivakarthikeyan with the alien from his new film Ayalaan.

Is it true that you do not want to work in subjects and scripts that are 'A' rated? 

Yes. It is a conscious decision to keep such projects or content away. When a producer is investing money in me, I must bring that amount back to him in the form of profits. So, I should be working on stories that can be told to families. I mean people, irrespective of age, come to the theatres to watch my films. I want to entertain and not embarrass them. So I want to do films that everybody would want to watch.

Can you share insights into your upcoming project with Sai Pallavi under Kamal Haasan’s production?

We have completed 80 per cent of the shooting for the upcoming project, with Sai Pallavi and me in lead roles. The genre and style details will be revealed in due course, possibly with a summer release.

Have you signed any Telugu films after Prince?

No. Not yet. After Prince, I have heard a few scripts but nothing has materialised yet.