Valimai
Valimai | |
---|---|
![]() Theatrical release poster | |
Directed by | H. Vinoth |
Written by | H. Vinoth |
Produced by | Boney Kapoor |
Starring | |
Cinematography | Nirav Shah |
Edited by | Vijay Velukutty |
Music by | Ghibran (score) Yuvan Shankar Raja (songs) |
Production companies | |
Distributed by | Zee Studios Romeo Pictures Gopuram Cinemas |
Release date |
|
Running time | 178 minutes[1] 167 minutes (edited version)[2] |
Country | India |
Language | Tamil |
Budget | ₹150 crore[3] |
Box office | est. ₹163.20–234 crore[a] |
Valimai (transl. Strength)[7] is a 2022 Indian Tamil-language action thriller film written and directed by H. Vinoth, and produced by Boney Kapoor under Bayview Projects LLP in collaboration with Zee Studios, as co-producer and distributor. The film stars Ajith Kumar, Karthikeya, Huma Qureshi and Gurbani Judge. The film score is composed by Ghibran and the songs are composed by Yuvan Shankar Raja. The cinematography is performed by Nirav Shah and the editing handled by Vijay Velukutty. It revolves around Arjun, a police officer, who is assigned to track down a group of outlaw bikers following their involvement in heinous crimes.
This film marked the second collaboration between Ajith, Vinoth and Kapoor after Nerkonda Paarvai (2019). Vinoth wrote the script in mid-2018, but Ajith initially declined it and asked him to work on it later. The idea was later pitched in January 2019 with Kapoor agreeing to fund the project and was officially launched in mid-October 2019, with its title. Principal photography began in December 2019 in Hyderabad and was completed in February 2021, irrespective of production being disrupted due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Major portions of the film were shot across Chennai and Hyderabad, in addition to a few sequences in Russia, which were filmed during late-August and early-September 2021.
The film was in the news for a long time, due to the persuasion of fans to launch an update regarding the project, leading to a campaign named #ValimaiUpdate, that influenced sports, politics and other events as well. It eventually led to being listed as one of the most-anticipated Tamil films according to trade circuits.[8] After being delayed multiple times, due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic restrictions being enforced in India, the film was released worldwide on 24 February 2022 to mixed reviews from critics.
Plot
[edit]![]() | This article's plot summary may be too long or excessively detailed. (May 2024) |
In Chennai, an outlaw motorcycle gang called Satan's Slaves are involved in drug rackets, snatch theft and murders, which are headed by Naren aka Wolfranga. With the increase in such crimes getting out of hand, the city commissioner Vijayakumar assigns the case to ACP Arjun Kumar from Madurai, who is known for his peculiar way of handling justice; breaking one of the limbs of the convicted so that they never repeat their crimes, originating from the moral values instilled by his mother Lakshmi.
Arjun is the sole breadwinner in his family consisting of Lakshmi; his drunkard older brother Kothandam and his wife; his married younger sister; and his younger brother Ashok "Kutty", an unemployed graduate. Kutty is constantly looked down by his sisters-in-law, whose daughter he is in love with, for his unemployment, worrying Arjun and Lakshmi. Collaborating with his partner and friend Sophia, Arjun finds the corpse of Naveen, a man in a hostel whose friend Chinna had betrayed the gang and supplied drugs to him. However, Naveen had burned the drugs and committed suicide by hanging, while Chinna had been killed by the biker gang upon learning of his betrayal. Arjun finds Naveen's helmet in his room and finds out that he was a snatch thief who used a stolen motorcycle purchased from an online black marketeer. Arjun and Sophia both figure out the sequence of crimes done by Satan's Slaves.
The bikes used in the crimes had been bought from the same platform using stolen mobile phones via the dark web and that all of these crimes are done by the same organization. After sending one of his colleagues posing as a mercenary to thugs retired from the drug peddling business to find out the kingpin, Arjun learns about Wolfranga and a bike chase and close-combat ensues where Arjun manages to defeat Wolfranga and the gang and arrests them. To his shock, finds out that Kutty had also been involved with the gang. While taking them to prison, Satan's Slaves attacks the convoy, kills the policemen, and aids Wolfranga to escape. Arjun tries to corner Wolfranga, but he is knocked by Kutty, who escapes with the gang.
Arjun gets demoted from the case due to Kutty's involvement and the case is handed over to DCP Rajangam and IG Arasu, both of whom are envious of Arjun. Unknown to anyone, Rajangam and Arasu are moles of Wolfranga and do not pay heed to the case. Lakshmi refuses food and drink out of guilt of seeing Kutty going astray, prompting Arjun to take matters into his own hands and solve the case himself. With Sophia's help alongside a few trusted aides in the cybercrime department, Arjun captures one of the mules and asks him about the gang and how Kutty got entangled into the dirty business. Kutty had become acquainted to Wolfranga after he was humiliated in front of his family by his sister's in-laws due to his unemployment and refused to let their daughter marry him. Wolfranga indoctrinates him, saying that family are selfish individuals whose affection is a trick to make their children serve them in their old age.
Wolfranga runs his business using unemployed graduates who are outcast due to unemployment and as a result are motivated by money buys everything ideology. After fishing out the abandoned, stolen motorcycles from a derelict quarry, Arjun is reassigned the case where he and Sophia plan to expose Rajangam and Arasu's involvement with Wolfranga to Vijayakumar. Wolfranga kidnaps Arjun's family, holds them hostage, and blackmails Arjun to steal a metric ton of seized cocaine from the treasury to release them. However, Wolfranga also tells Rajangam to kill Arjun, pin it on Kutty, and hand him the seized cocaine to be incinerated. Wolfranga gives an empty gun to Kutty and tells him to pretend to shoot Lakshmi in order to shake her selflessness, while he secretly loaded a single bullet in the gun, but upon realizing Lakshmi's love and her readiness to die for him, Kutty inadvertently shoots Wolfranga's girlfriend Sarah dead.
Kutty reunites with his family but is badly beaten and taken hostage as well. Arjun successfully steals the cocaine, exposing and capturing Rajangam, Arasu, and the remaining mules. Arjun arrives at the hideout and fights Wolfranga, defeating him. The team successfully hacks Satan's Slaves's server and lures the bikers to the hideout. Upon arrival, they find Wolfranga dead and are surrounded and arrested by the police force. At the station, Arjun convinces the bikers to work hard and solve the problems and mentions the importance of the parents' love for them and the pleasures they sacrificed for their children, releasing them. The case is successfully closed, while Arjun and the police force are applauded by the public. Owing to their efforts, the police organizes a program to rehabilitate youngsters from depression and drugs.
Cast
[edit]- Ajith Kumar as ACP Arjun Kumar IPS
- Jack Robinson as young Arjun Kumar
- Karthikeya as Naren a.k.a. Wolfranga
- Huma Qureshi as Sophia
- Gurbani Judge as Sara
- Sumithra as Lakshmi, Arjun's mother
- Uma Shankari as young Lakshmi
- Raj Ayyappa as Ashok a.k.a. Kutty, Arjun's younger brother
- Dhruvan as Amith
- Achyuth Kumar as Kothandam, Arjun's drunkard older brother
- Sunaina Badam as Arjun's younger sister
- Selva as Vijayakumar, police commissioner
- Dinesh Prabhakar as DCP Rajangam
- G. M. Sundar as IG Arasu
- Vaishnavi Chaitanya as Ramya
- Pearle Maaney as Christina
- Chaitra Reddy as Latha
- Mahanadi Shankar as Parthasarathy
- Pavel Navageethan[9] as Selvam
- Pugazh as Success Balu
- D. R. K. Kiran as Inspector Ahmed
- Ajith Nambiar
- Janaki Suresh
- Silmisham Siva
- Kravmaga Sreeram
Additionally, a portrait of late actor Jaishankar as Arjun's late father is also featured in the film.[10]
Production
[edit]Development
[edit]"This was the second script that I'd done, and it was for another hero. I had a different version of this story. It was not a cop story then. We see what's happening around us. We see youngsters and what kind of problems that they and their families are facing today. I have taken two such problems, which I felt need to be addressed. What if those problems happened to the hero's family? How would they face it? How does he, as the head of the family, tackle it? How his personal and professional lives get affected by this and how he overcomes this forms the plot".
– H. Vinoth, on the origin of Valimai.[11]
Soon after the release of director H. Vinoth's second film Theeran Adhigaaram Ondru (2017), he approached actor Ajith Kumar. However, Ajith declined the project and asked the director to work on the Tamil remake of the 2016 Hindi film Pink titled as Nerkonda Paarvai.[12] In January 2019, Boney Kapoor announced the second collaboration with Ajith Kumar and director Vinoth for another Tamil film, titled as Thala 60.[13][14] Kapoor also stated that, the film will have racing sequences,[15] suggesting that the movie would be an action thriller genre that uses the actor's passion for speed.[16][17] It was reported that Vinoth had written the script with another actor in mind, and with Ajith's involvement, he had to make changes in the script.[18] The film's production was expected to launch on 29 August 2019,[19][20] But delayed.
A formal launch ceremony for the film was held on 18 October 2019, at the office of Kapoor's production house.[21] The makers also announced the title of the film as Valimai.[22][23] Yuvan Shankar Raja was hired as the film's music director, and Nirav Shah was confirmed as the cinematographer.[24] Art director Thota Tharani was reported to join the film's technical crew,[25] but was replaced by K. Kathir. Editor Vijay Velukutty and stunt choreographer Dhilip Subbarayan too were a part of the technical team.[26] Sources claimed that Ajith would portray a police officer, which was later confirmed by Kapoor.[27][28]
![](http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/d/dc/Gypsy_Joker_Protest_Run_2.jpg/220px-Gypsy_Joker_Protest_Run_2.jpg)
On the release of the trailer glimpse on 23 September 2021,[30] many cinephiles noted about the storyline revolving around the Satan's Slaves Motorcycle Club, which was founded in Shipley in the mid-1960s, and later spread on to various countries including Germany, North America, Scotland and Australia.[31] They were known for the heinous activities being involved such as drug peddling, trafficking in stolen goods, gunrunning, extortion, and prostitution; its film's plot has a resemblance to the documentary covered on the outlaw motorcycle club, titled Sons of Anarchy.[32] Vinoth however revealed that the storyline will be loosely based on a group of outlaw motorcyclists involving in heinous crimes and how the protagonist tracks them down, hinting that the history behind Satan's Slaves Club gave its reference.[33]
In an interview with Ananda Vikatan, Vinoth stated that he had partially re-written the script before the resumption of the film's shooting, being halted due to the COVID-19 pandemic. He stated that some of the actors were hesitant to shoot during the pandemic and the location owners denied permission to shoot on the sets that were constructed in the pre-pandemic times. As a result, he had to re-write the story and change the location and setting, due to practical difficulties.[34]
Casting
[edit]In an interview with Gopinath Rajendran of Cinema Express, Vinoth had stated that Ajith's character is modelled on a real life racer-turned-police officer.[35] He said, "When Jayalalithaa ma'am was the Chief Minister, a bike racer was made an SI directly. We have taken that as an inspiration for this character, who is an ex-racing professional turned cop".[36] The makers reportedly approached Janhvi Kapoor and Parineeti Chopra to play the female lead, thus marking their debuts in South Indian cinema,[37] and both actresses declined due to call sheet issues.[38] While there had been questions surrounding over the film's female lead, with Ileana D'Cruz and Yami Gautam reportedly under consideration,[39] Huma Qureshi was cast as a lead, in her second Tamil film after the Rajinikanth-starrer Kaala (2018).[40] She portrays Ajith's friend in the film and there were no romantic scenes with the lead actor, due to the scripting changes made by Vinoth.[41][42]
Bollywood actor Ajay Devgn was reported to play the antagonist, and could not act in the film due to his commitments to RRR.[43] Arvind Swamy also reportedly refused to be part of the film, since he was then shooting for Thalaivii.[44] Prasanna was also approached to play a pivotal role in Valimai,[45] but declined the offer.[46] In late 2019, Telugu actor Kartikeya Gummakonda was speculated as the antagonist, making Valimai his Tamil debut, and was confirmed only a year later. [47][48] Vinoth stated that the antagonist is "a strong character who believes in his ideology".[36] Apart from Kartikeya, two other antagonists, were reported to be featured in the film,[49] with Pavel Navageethan of V1: Murder Case (2019) fame,[50] and Malayalam actor Dhruvan reportedly playing the respective roles.[51] In October 2021, Vinoth said that Malayalam actor Tovino Thomas was the initial choice for the antagonist before Kartikeya was finalised.[52]
Raj Ayyappa who played the antagonist in 100, plays Ajith Kumar's brother in the film.[53] A leaked picture of the film in December 2020,[54] features Achyuth Kumar and Sumithra in the film's cast,[55] The latter was reported to play Ajith Kumar's mother in the film, which the makers stated her character as a crucial one in the film.[56][57] Popular television actor Pugazh was reported to play a pivotal role in the film.[58] G. M. Sundar, Selva, television actress Chaitra Reddy (in her film debut), Pearle Maaney (in her Tamil debut)[59] and Dinesh Prabhakar, were other actors who appear in supporting roles in the film.[60]
Filming
[edit]![](http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/f/f6/Moscow-City_skyline.jpg/220px-Moscow-City_skyline.jpg)
Principal photography of Valimai was expected to begin on 13 December 2019,[61][62] but the shooting was launched two days earlier at the Ramoji Film City in Hyderabad.[63][64] The makers filmed an action sequence for Ajith in Hyderabad,[65] which was completed within two weeks.[66] Soon after the completion, the team planned for a three-day shooting schedule, at Rekha Gardens in Chennai, and parts of the city.[67] It was reported that, Ajith met with an accident during the filming of a bike sequence before completing the schedule in Chennai, which resulted in the film's delay.[68][69] Filming was reportedly halted in March 2020 due to the pandemic, where, the team planned to shoot few sequences, which include car and motor race at Switzerland, within April 2020,[70] and also planned to shoot in Spain and Morocco, after the COVID-19 lockdown in India.[71][72] However, the pandemic affected the foreign shooting schedules,[73] which made the team to make major changes in the shooting plan, with the planned foreign schedules to be shot across India.[74] The post-production works of the film did not happen after Ajith's request. Nearly 60% of the shoot completed before the lockdown imposed.[75]
After multiple delays, the film's shooting resumed on 23 September 2020,[76] with Kartikeya joining the shoot.[77][78] Major portions of the film were shot at Red Hills in Chennai. The makers stated that, Ajith will join the film's shoot by January 2021 and planned to complete the shoot within February,[79] as more than 50–60 days of shoot is pending, including the actor's portions which will be completed within 30 days.[80] It was reported that a popular Hollywood stunt choreographer, was hired to direct the few action sequences, which will introduce a new-style stunt in Tamil cinema.[81] In October 2020, the team planned to shoot few sequences at New Delhi, but after the government denied permission to shoot the film citing the pandemic,[82][83] the makers chose Hyderabad as the shooting schedule.[84]
Ajith joined the sets in Hyderabad, after which he resumed shooting on 25 October,[85][86] despite reported that he will start the shoot in early 2021.[87] In an interview with an online portal, H. Vinoth stated that the makers may not cancel the foreign schedule because the crucial scene involves more international stuntmen.[88] In mid-November 2020, it was reported that Ajith may take a month-long break in order to start the next phase of the shoot in Hyderabad.[89] After the shoot resumed, the makers filmed a stunt sequence with Ajith performing a bike stunt without a double; however the actor lost his balance while performing a stunt, and fell off the bike.[90] Despite sustaining injuries, Ajith completed the schedule without delay.[91][92] As of December 2020, the makers had completed 80% of the film's shoot and talkie portions, whereas the songs and stunt sequences were yet to be completed.[93] It was further reported that the makers planned to film the major stunt sequences in foreign countries post lockdown relaxations,[94] with a major schedule in South Africa and Spain,[95] where high-octane bike stunts will be filmed in the country.[96] The film's shooting was wrapped on 15 February 2021, barring the foreign schedule,[97] which was filmed in Russia during 26 August 2021 and was completed on 2 September, thereby shooting of the film was wrapped.[98][99]
Speaking to an interview before the release, producer Boney Kapoor said that the film has been shot within 150-working days, while several days have been lost due to COVID-19 lockdown and travel restrictions, thus taking more than one-and-a-half years. Out of this 80 days were utilised for the action sequences and for those, the team arranged 150 motorbikes and 15–20 cars, with 4 brand new models, for the schedule. Furthermore, they also had 25–30 bikes imported from Russia, after shooting being completed, the team sold the bikes for half price.[100]
Post-production
[edit]Post-production works for the film began during mid-February 2021.[101] Vijay Velukutty, who worked in films such as Sangu Chakkaram (2017) and Jackpot (2019), was announced as the editor in the same month. He edited several portions of the film, except for the foreign schedule, which was speculated to be included with the edit, once the said shooting gets completed.[102] In the intermediate period, several actors completed dubbing for the film, including Ajith Kumar who dubbed for his portions in March 2021.[103] The team also worked on the visual effects and supervision in order to get the film ready. With the foreign schedule held in Russia, being completed within September 2021, the team resumed activities on post-production.[104] The team needed to edit the final cut of the film, due to the inclusion of that particular sequence,[105] and more work on the visual effects, eventually delaying the release.[106] Ajith Kumar asked Vinoth to show the rough output of the film to him when the final edit was ready. He initially watched the entire film after its release. But due to the actor's curiosity and excitement of the film, as it has many racing sequences, and also his profession as a racer, he decided to change his plans and was received a rough copy of the film by Vinoth.[107]
Ghibran who has worked with Vinoth in his second directorial Theeran Adhigaaram Ondru, was reported to compose the film score.[108] Sources reported that Vinoth and the production team were not impressed by the score that Yuvan had created for the film, which resulted him to opt out of the project, despite composing the songs.[109][110] However, the film's sound engineer-audiographer M. R. Rajakrishnan, in an interview, claimed that Yuvan could not come to the final mixing of the score, in the last moment, which resulted in Ghibran's involvement to the project.[111] Ghibran worked on the re-recording and final mixing of the film score with Rajakrishnan.[112][113] Sachin Sudharakaran and Hariharan M. of Sync Cinema worked on the sound design of the film. In an interview to The New Indian Express, the duo expressed about the recording of motorcycles and superbikes. They felt that, "the actual bike might not sound optimal for the visual, and we would interchange the sounds to find the perfect match. Since it wasn't feasible to record the sound on the sets, we would record it separately. The makers' decision to retain the bikes even after the shoot came in handy for us [...] Recording a bike would also mean we would fit the mic on the rider as he rode it, and record the sounds of the engine and muffler separately."[114]
The film was given a U/A certificate from the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC).[115] According to a report from the production team, the Board had ordered 15 cuts for the film, including muting and removing excessive use of violence and profanity.[116] The final cut has a running time of 179 minutes.[117] Valimai was mixed in Auro 11.1 surround sound technology, becoming the second Tamil film to do so after Vishwaroopam (2013).[112] The final mixing happened at Four Frames Sound Company on 10 February 2022, fourteen days before the film's theatrical release.[118]
Music
[edit]Ghibran composed the original score in his second collaboration with director H. Vinoth after Theeran Adhigaaram Ondru and his first collaboration with Ajith Kumar and producer Boney Kapoor, while Yuvan Shankar Raja composed the songs, in his second collaboration with Vinoth and Boney Kapoor after Nerkonda Paarvai (2019) and eighth collaboration with Ajith Kumar after Dheena, Billa, Aegan, Mankatha, Billa II, Arrambam and Nerkonda Paarvai. Ghibran's involvement in the film was kept under wraps until being revealed by an article in the Times of India[119][120] By February 2020, Yuvan composed two tracks for the film. However, due to COVID-19 lockdown restrictions, the progress of the film's music album was put on hold.[121] Work on the film's songs were completed by late-October,[122] and recording of the tracks began during mid-December 2020 at composer A. R. Rahman's AM Studios in Chennai,[123] with the studio's chief sound engineer S. Sivakumar worked on the film's audiography.[124] The film's soundtrack has different set of songs, consisting of various genres.[125] Lyrics for the songs were written by Vignesh Shivan, Thamarai and rapper-cum-lyricist Arivu.
On 2 August 2021,[126][127] collaborating with Ajith's 30th anniversary in the film industry,[128] the makers released the first single "Naanga Vera Maari" on the same night,[129][130] and received response from critics.[131] The track "Mother Song" was released as the second single on 5 December,[132][133] and the third single from the album – an instrumental track titled "Whistle Theme" was released on 22 December.[134][135] Sony Music India, which acquired the marketing rights of the album, released it on New Year's Day (1 January 2022)[136] through Spotify,[137] iTunes and YouTube Music. However, two of the tracks were taken down from the album, from the respective platforms, as the tracks revealed the plot of the film, before eventually being restored to the album, a day before the film's release.[138]
Marketing
[edit]Despite the film's title being announced in October 2019, there was no update regarding the film's first look. In April 2020, Boney Kapoor claimed that the team will not indulge in any promotional activities citing the pandemic, and also stated that the team will kickstart the promotions post-lockdown.[139][140] However, there was no clarification about the film promotion or first look which prompted fans of Ajith Kumar to trend the hashtag #ValimaiUpdate on Twitter.[141] Furthermore, the producer had confirmed that the first look will release only after the film's shooting being wrapped.[142] Although few members of the production team claimed that the first look will release on the end of February 2021,[143] some of the fans had prompted for the film's update at sporting[144][145] and political events and other public venues,[146] which left Ajith Kumar disappointed and asked his fans to remain patient till the team releases an update.[147] Although the film's first look was scheduled for a release on the first week of March,[148] the producer tweeted that the makers will unveil the first look on 1 May 2021, coinciding with Ajith's birthday.[149] However, a week prior to the said date, on 23 April 2021, the makers postponed the release of the film's first look due to the surge in COVID-19 cases in India.[150]
While the makers planning to launch the first look with release date,[151] on 11 July 2021, without pre-announcement, the makers launched the first look and motion poster of the film.[152][153] Apart from receiving positive response for fans praising Ajith's look in the film,[154] the motion poster received more than 10 million views on YouTube, within 48 hours.[155] However, it also fetched criticism as cinephiles apparently noticed that similar images from the poster are widely available on the internet, alleging that the makers have lifted random images from the internet and made it into a motion poster.[156] Few netizens also stated that the motion poster did not meet its expectations.[156] The making video of the film released on 14 December 2021, and was praised by fans and audiences.[157]
Prior to the film's release, the marketing team branded the film's posters in hoardings and LED displays located at various transportation services such as bus stops, railways and also at the Chennai Metro's vestibule.[158] Two pre-release events were held for the film. The first event to promote the film's Kannada version was held at Bangalore on 21 February 2022,[159][160] and the second event to promote the film's Telugu version was held in Hyderabad, the following day.[161] Few cast members, including Huma Qureshi and Kartikeya, travelled through several cities to promote the film.[162] SIMCO, the Central Government's South Indian co-operative departmental store functioning in Vellore announced a bid for its share that consumers whom purchase grocery items worth ₹2,999, will receive complimentary tickets for the film amounted to ₹500 and might serve popcorn and cold drinks for free.[163]
Release
[edit]Theatrical
[edit]Valimai was initially scheduled to release in November 2020, coinciding the festival of Diwali.[164] However, the film's shoot was suspended due to the pandemic, thus resulting in the delay of its release.[165] Post-completion of shooting, the film was initially scheduled to be released within late-2021.[166] In mid-September 2021, the producers tweeted that the film is postponed to Pongal in January 2022,[167] thereby clashing with other big-budget films including S. S. Rajamouli's RRR and Prabhas' Radhe Shyam.[168] The Multiplex Association of India (TMAI), listed the release date as 14 January 2022, in their official press release;[169] however, the production company officially announced that the film would be released on 13 January, a day before Pongal.[170]
In December 2021, theatre owners and exhibitors in Tamil Nadu, planned to open shows to begin at 1:00 am in order to get more screenings, thereby enhancing the box office collection.[171] The makers too persuaded the Government of Tamil Nadu regarding permission for benefit shows.[171] A week before the release, the film was postponed indefinitely due to the increasing number of COVID-19 cases, fuelled by the SARS-CoV-2 Omicron variant,[172][173] and the sudden restrictions imposed by the government to control the pandemic.[174] In early February, It was confirmed that the film is now scheduled to be released on 24 February 2022.[175] Apart from Tamil, the film will be released in dubbed versions of Hindi, Kannada and Telugu languages along with the original version.[176][177] A planned release of a Malayalam dubbed version, was put on hold due to closure of theatres in Kerala, as a precautionary measure to control the rise of COVID-19 cases in Kerala.[178] With theatres being reopened in Kerala during mid-February, after relaxations, the makers reinstated to release the Malayalam-dubbed version along with the original on 24 February.[179]
Following the release, the film received criticism for its length. Responding to the criticism, the makers trimmed all versions by 12 minutes, except the Hindi version, which was shortened by 18 minutes. The edits came into effect by 25 February 2022.[180]
Screenings and statistics
[edit]According to trade industry sources, Valimai will be released in over 1000 theatres across Tamil Nadu.[181][182] Film financier G. N. Anbu Chezhiyan's Gopuram Films, which distributed the film in Madurai, had announced that Valimai will be released in all over 27 theatres across the district with 45-50 shows being allotted.[183][184] This came as a response, due to Ajith's exponential growth of the fanbase in Madurai, and the response for the actor's previous films there.[181] Four days before the release, on 20 February 2022, the makers started the state-wide advance bookings in Tamil Nadu, and saw tremendous response within few hours, according to trade exhibitors,[185][186] with tickets being sold out within a day.[187] The first show in Tamil Nadu is expected to begin at 4:00 am.[188] Reports from News18 had anticipated that "Valimai is expected to shatter records" as it did not have any major release in the vicinity,[189] and also expected the film might revive the Tamil film industry which was affected by the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and bring a similar response to that of Master (2021).[181]
"[Valimai is] not just an action film [...] It is a proper family entertainer that also talks about social issues. When I say family film, it is not about the issues that crop up within a family, but it deals with an issue that a family faces, how that results in a crime, and how the hero tries to stop that crime from wrecking his family. It is a film that one should watch with their family [...] Ajith sir told me, 'I feel proud to have done this film. I'm going to screen this film to my mom and dad, and my family, as I feel like a proud son after having made this film.' He has screened it for them, and it was only after seeing their response that our producer decided to release it in a big way in Hindi, Telugu and Kannada".
H. Vinoth in an interview with Chennai Times about Valimai's screening.[190]
Film exhibitor Tiruppur Subramanian had stated that "Valimai's release will definitely bring in a change. Just like we saw when Master came out in 2021, and after Doctor or Maanaadu in the wake of second wave restrictions ending. These kinds of big films are essential for drawing audiences back. Once they come, it'll become a routine to re-visit theatres like before".[191] Boney Kapoor called Valimai as Ajith's first pan-Indian film in an interview with The Times of India-based critic M. Suganth, and said that "The film has family drama, fantastic action and also something for the audiences to take home. So, it has the potential to work everywhere. You can call this the beginning of a pan-India release for Ajith's films".[192] Ajith held a special screening for his family, few days before the release, and followed by the positive response, the team decided for a pan-Indian release in Tamil, Hindi, Kannada and Telugu languages.[193][194]
While Valimai is released in several theatres across Tamil Nadu,[195] the film is expected to clash with Pawan Kalyan's Bheemla Nayak in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana,[196] and Alia Bhatt's Gangubai Kathiawadi in North India, whose films releases a day later.[197] IVY Productions, which acquired the distribution rights in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, had stated that Valimai will be released in over 500 screens in these states.[198] E4 Entertainment announced that Valimai will be released in over 200 theatres in Kerala and fan-shows will begin from 4:00 am.[179] In overseas centres, the film will be screened at about 60 locations in Australia, 19 locations in New Zealand and 5 locations in Fiji.[199] Hamsini Entertainment announced that premiere shows for the film will begin on 23 February 2022, and the film will be screened in over 400 theatres across 250 locations in United States.[200] The film's pre-sale record in United States crossed $30-mark from 46 locations.[200] The film is also scheduled to be screened at Grand Rex, France, which was considered as the world's largest cinema theatre.[201] However, it was called off after the film's planned release in France was cancelled due to unknown reasons.[202] The advance bookings for the film, began in Japan, three weeks before the anticipated release.[203] The film will be released in 42 locations across Saudi Arabia, which is touted to be the biggest release in the country, with early fan shows being held on 24 February 2022.[204]
Pre-release business
[edit]The film made a business of about ₹200 crore (US$24 million) before the release, with the inclusion of satellite, digital, audio and Hindi dubbing rights.[205] The revised pre-release deal was reported to be around ₹300 crore (US$36 million),[206] but the deal was later revealed to be around ₹155 crore (US$19 million).[207] The Tamil Nadu theatrical rights were sold for ₹64.50 crore (US$7.7 million), Kerala and Karnataka theatrical rights were sold to ₹2.5 crore (US$300,000) and ₹4 crore (US$480,000) and Andhra and Telangana theatrical rights were sold jointly for ₹2.5 crore (US$300,000).[208] The North India theatrical distribution and Hindi dubbing rights were purchased for ₹2.5 crore (US$300,000), and overseas rights were sold to ₹30 crore (US$3.6 million).[208] The film made ₹96 crore (US$12 million) from theatrical rights, and ₹59 crore (US$7.1 million) from non-theatrical rights – satellite and digital rights were sold to ₹28 crore (US$3.4 million) and ₹31 crore (US$3.7 million), respectively.[208][209]
Distribution
[edit]The theatrical rights of the film were acquired by Raahul of Romeo Pictures and film financier Anbu Chezhian's Gopuram Cinemas.[210] Both the distributors acquired the rights in Chennai and Madurai.[211] Subbaiyah Shanmugham of SSI Productions purchased the rights in the Coimbatore territory and Sri Kumaran Films acquiring the Salem theatrical rights.[212] The theatrical rights in Chengalpet region were sold to Kalaimagan Mubarak of Skyman Films International for an undisclosed price.[212][213] Rockfort Entertainment purchased the theatrical distribution rights in the Arcot region (North Arcot and South Arcot).[214] The theatrical rights were sold to Sri Durgambigai Films in the Tiruchirappalli region, whilst MKRP Productions, a film production company owned by M. K. Ramprasad, purchased the rights in the Tirunelveli–Kanyakumari territories.[211]
IVY Productions acquired the theatrical rights in the Andhra Pradesh and Telangana territories.[215][216] E4 Entertainment purchased the theatrical rights in Kerala,[217] whereas Kamar Film Factory had purchased the Karnataka distribution rights.[218] Zee Studios holds the North India theatrical and Hindi-dubbing rights for the film. United India Exporters acquired the film's overseas distribution rights in December 2020.[219] Cinemark and Hamsini Entertainment, holds the rights for theatrical distribution in United States and United Kingdom.[220] Lotus Five Star purchased the theatrical rights in Malaysia and Singapore.[221] Scandinavian Tamil Media Group AS purchased the rights in the Scandinavian territory, including countries such as Norway, Sweden and Denmark.[215] Niraj Poudel of A Eight Films acquired the distribution rights in Nepal for an undisclosed price.[222]
Home media
[edit]The entire rights of the film were owned by its co-producer and distributor Zee Studios, the production and distribution firm of Zee Entertainment Enterprises who sold the satellite rights to Zee Tamil and Zee Thirai, and the digital distribution rights to ZEE5 and its video-on-demand service Zee Plex.[223] The makers planned for a digital premiere through Zee Plex, only after 35 days of its theatrical run being completed, and later premiere it on ZEE5.[224] However, as Zee Enterprises decided to close down Zee Plex, as their films released through this model, did not fetch the required numbers expected resulting huge losses for the company;[225] the makers decided to sell the post-theatrical streaming rights to ZEE5 in Tamil, Hindi, Telugu, Malayalam and Kannada languages, in which the film might have a 50-day window, between the theatrical and digital release.[224]
Reception
[edit]Critical response
[edit]Valimai opened to mixed reviews from critics.[226]
M. Suganth of The Times of India gave the film a rating of 3/5 praising the stunts and performances and wrote "There are times it works (a scene in prison when he has to break someone's arm) and times when it doesn't (the monologue in the climax). But there is no denying that it is his presence that holds together this two distinct tones of the film."[227] Janani K of India Today gave the film a rating of 3/5 and wrote "The action-thriller is a predictable story laced with brilliant action sequences".[228] Pinkvilla gave the film a rating 3/5 and wrote "'Valimai' is for you if you like larger-than-life action blocks involving bike-bound men and their unflinching adventures".[229]
Ashameera Aiyappan of Firstpost gave the film a rating of 2.5/5 and wrote "H Vinoth exchanges the grounded authenticity of his predecessor work for glitzy, gimmicky action which ends being a kitsch combination of sensibilities".[230] Vivek M V of Deccan Herald gave the film a rating of 2.5/5 and wrote "Ajith is fine while Huma Qureshi has just one slick action scene to shine. The saving grace is the maniacal performance from Kartikeya Gummakonda".[231] Manoj Kumar R of The Indian Express gave the film a rating of 2/5 and wrote "Vinoth's idea of creating an urban legend goes awry when the film fails to distinguish Ajith Kumar's offscreen persona from Ajith Kumar's character in Valimai".[232] Umesh Punwani of Koimoi gave the film a rating of 2/5 and wrote "Watch this only for Ajith, because he won't disappoint even though the film might!".[233] Sowmya Rajendran of The News Minute gave the film a rating of 2/5 and stated "The stunts are indeed valimai but the film becomes a kodumai with its wonky script and poor characterisation".[234] Bollywood Hungama gave the film a rating of 2/5 and wrote "VALIMAI [Hindi] suffers from its long length and complicated narrative. The Hindi version might struggle at the BO".[235]
Lakshmi Subramanian of The Week gave the film a rating of 2/5 and wrote "Every character in Valimai, including Huma and both the brothers feel like add-ons with no depth. The characters are either fully for the hero or completely against him.The second half is long and tiring with just bikes and bikers again. Besides this, Ajith's expressionless face adds to the misery".[236] Scroll.in gave the film a rating of 2/5 and wrote "Except for a handful of pulsating action sequences and a villain who is nearly equal in capabilities to the hero, Valimai has trouble kicking into gear".[237] Aditya Shrikrishna of The Quint gave the film a rating of 2/5 and wrote "Ajith Kumar's Film Is a Shoddily Produced Tepid Affair".[238] Nishad Thaivalappil of News18 stated "Thala Ajith fans will love Valimai, but the film has little to offer to others in terms of a cinematic experience".[239] Haricharan Pudipeddi of Hindustan Times stated "Ajith Kumar-starrer would've been a cracker of a film if it solely focused on providing action thrills".[240] Srivatsan S of The Hindu stated "While 'Theeran Adhigaram Ondru' may have announced that H Vinoth could do action, 'Valimai' reaffirms our belief that Vinoth could perhaps be the best Indian filmmaker who knows how to write, choreograph and execute action sequences with a larger vision and purpose".[241]
Box office
[edit]Valimai was expected to have very high collections at the box office.[242]
Valimai had the highest opening day in Tamil Nadu at the time of its release according to Box Office India,[243] or the second highest opening day behind Sarkar (2018), according to Bollywood Hungama. On its opening day, Bollywood Hungama said that the film grossed around ₹28 crore (US$3.4 million) to ₹32 crore (US$3.8 million) in Tamil Nadu.[244]
In USA, the film beat Ajith's previous film Viswasam's lifetime USA gross by grossing $300k, becoming Ajith's fifth film to gross more than $300k in USA.[245]
Plagiarism allegations
[edit]In February 2023, nearly a year after the film's release, director Rajesh Raja accused Vinoth of lifting 10 scenes from the former's 2019 short film Thanga Sangili for Valimai. Due to his inability to reach Vinoth, Rajesh Raja approached the Commissioner of Chennai.[246]
Impact
[edit]The impact of Valimai, even before the release, has been noted by several cinephiles, with the hashtag #ValimaiUpdate becoming a trending topic on Twitter.[141] Boney Kapoor noted the fan following of the actor in regard to this. In an interview with The Hindu, he said that though fans of Ajith had every right to ask for updates on the film, "I did not want to mislead them. I wanted to give out material only when there was something concrete at hand."[141] This trend influenced celebrities from the film fraternity,[247] sportspersons,[248][249] politicians and media outlets.[247][250] Ravichandran Ashwin shared the same in an online interaction, when he experienced a fan asking Moeen Ali and him,[251] for an update regarding the film during the second test match, between India and England in Chennai.[248][249] Politician Vanathi Srinivasan too said that after her win in the 2021 Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly election, the fans might get the update about the film.[252] #ValimaiUpdate campaign also influenced the elections, with Election Commission's Tamil Nadu wing advertising the title on the necessity to urge every individual to vote.[253] In February 2022, the film crossed more than 2 million interests on the online-ticketing portal BookMyShow,[254] beating records earlier set by Baahubali 2: The Conclusion (2017) and Avengers: Endgame (2019).[255] Valimai was the second most tweeted film in India, according to a year-ender survey report released by Twitter in December 2021.[256][257]
Potential sequel
[edit]In an interview with Pinkvilla, Boney Kapoor expressed his plans on a sequel and more future instalments, so that the film would be developed into a franchise. He stated that the possibility for a sequel will be dependent on the audience response towards the film and the box-office performance.[258]
References
[edit]- ^ "Certificate Detail". Central Board of Film Certification. 17 January 2022. Archived from the original on 22 August 2023. Retrieved 17 January 2022.
- ^ "Ajith's Valimai trimmed by 15 minutes". The Times of India. 26 February 2022. Archived from the original on 26 February 2022. Retrieved 26 February 2022.
- ^ "Boney Kapoor announces Valimai Day as Ajith's film is all set for a grand release on Feb 24". India Today. 18 February 2022. Archived from the original on 24 February 2022. Retrieved 24 February 2022.
- ^ "Highest Grossing Indian Films Of 2022 Include RRR, KGF: Chapter 2, Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2, Gangubai Kathiawadi". News18. 2 July 2022. Archived from the original on 24 February 2023. Retrieved 24 February 2023.
- ^ Sharma, Aanchal (19 December 2022). "Yearender 2022: KGF 2 BEATS Kantara, RRR To Become The Highest Grossing South Film Of The Year". Dainik Jagran. Archived from the original on 16 January 2023. Retrieved 16 January 2023.
- ^ "'Valimai' lifetime box office collection: This Ajith starrer film mints Rs.234 crore; turns the 9th highest grosser film in Tamil Nadu". The Times of India. 8 April 2022. Archived from the original on 25 April 2022. Retrieved 26 April 2022.
- ^ "Ajith's 'AK 60' now titled as 'Valimai'". The Hindu. 19 October 2019. Archived from the original on 18 October 2019. Retrieved 17 November 2019.
- ^ K., Janani (17 December 2021). "Year-ender 2021: RRR to Beast, 15 Tamil, Telugu films to look forward in 2022". India Today. Archived from the original on 18 December 2021. Retrieved 18 December 2021.
- ^ "Pavel Navageethan to be a part of Ajith's Valimai". Cinema Express. 30 December 2019. Archived from the original on 6 February 2021. Retrieved 7 August 2020.
- ^ "Did you know late actor Jai Shankar is part of 'Valimai'? Read on..." The Times of India. 22 February 2022. Archived from the original on 24 February 2022. Retrieved 23 February 2022.
- ^ "Ajith doesn't say no if a director wants something from him: Vinoth". The Times of India. 18 December 2021. Archived from the original on 18 December 2021. Retrieved 18 December 2021.
- ^ "H Vinoth: If Nerkonda Paarvai earns a rupee more than Viswasam, superstars will have to do such films". India Today. 12 August 2019. Archived from the original on 12 August 2019. Retrieved 20 November 2019.
- ^ "Ajith's next after 'Pink' remake is a full-fledged action flick". The Times of India. 30 January 2019. Archived from the original on 2 February 2019. Retrieved 23 October 2020.
- ^ "Boney Kapoor clarifies on Ajith's film". The Times of India. 11 July 2019. Archived from the original on 31 August 2019. Retrieved 23 October 2020.
- ^ "Is Thala Ajith's 60th film going to be on racing?". The Times of India. 8 June 2019. Archived from the original on 28 October 2020. Retrieved 23 October 2020.
- ^ "Boney Kapoor on his next with Ajith: It's a thriller which uses his passion for speed". India Today. 7 June 2019. Archived from the original on 17 November 2019. Retrieved 20 November 2019.
- ^ "I told Ajith sir that I was afraid to do Nerkonda Paarvai: H Vinoth". Cinema Express. 12 June 2019. Archived from the original on 7 August 2019. Retrieved 20 November 2019.
- ^ "H Vinoth: 'Valimai' will be better than any other commercial film in Tamil". Sify. 18 December 2021. Archived from the original on 18 December 2021. Retrieved 18 December 2021.
- ^ "Boney Kapoor confirms Ajith's 'Thala 60'". The Times of India. 30 July 2019. Archived from the original on 13 November 2020. Retrieved 23 October 2020.
- ^ "Ajith's 'Thala 60' to start from August 29". The Times of India. 17 June 2019. Archived from the original on 11 November 2020. Retrieved 23 October 2020.
- ^ "Ajith's next with Boney Kapoor titled 'Valimai', filming begins". The News Minute. 18 October 2019. Archived from the original on 19 October 2019. Retrieved 5 February 2021.
- ^ "Ajith's 'AK 60' now titled as 'Valimai'". The Hindu. 18 October 2019. Archived from the original on 18 October 2019. Retrieved 20 November 2019.
- ^ Lakshmi, V. (18 October 2019). "Ajith's #Thala60 with H Vinoth titled Valimai". The Times of India. Archived from the original on 7 November 2020. Retrieved 23 October 2020.
- ^ "Ajith's Thala 60 is officially titled Valimai". Cinema Express. 18 October 2019. Archived from the original on 25 January 2021. Retrieved 5 February 2021.
- ^ "National Award-winning art director joins Ajith's 'Valimai'?". The Times of India. 29 October 2019. Archived from the original on 31 October 2019. Retrieved 23 October 2020.
- ^ "In Pics: Ajith's VALIMAI Main cast and crew details – Don't miss!". Behindwoods. 11 July 2021. Archived from the original on 21 November 2021. Retrieved 21 November 2021.
- ^ "Thala 60: Ajith Kumar to play a tough cop in H Vinoth's upcoming film". The Times of India. 18 October 2019. Archived from the original on 28 October 2020. Retrieved 23 October 2020.
- ^ "Ajith to play cop in 'Valimai', confirms Boney Kapoor". The News Minute. 11 December 2019. Archived from the original on 11 December 2019. Retrieved 5 February 2021.
- ^ "Valimai director reveals details about film's plot!". Moviecrow. 18 December 2021. Archived from the original on 2 February 2022. Retrieved 2 February 2022.
- ^ "Watch: Glimpses of Valimai shows high octane action and a dapper Ajith". The News Minute. 24 September 2021. Archived from the original on 19 November 2021. Retrieved 19 November 2021.
- ^ "Valimai's official 'Glimpse' featuring 'Thala' Ajith promises a thrilling ride!". Indulge Express. 23 September 2021. Archived from the original on 19 November 2021. Retrieved 19 November 2021.
- ^ "Is this the story of Thala Ajith's Valimai? – Interesting facts from the glimpse teaser!". IndiaGlitz. 24 September 2021. Archived from the original on 19 November 2021. Retrieved 19 November 2021.
- ^ Ramanujam, Srinivasa (29 December 2021). "'Valimai' director Vinoth: Ajith's favourite quote is 'Everything will fall in place'". The Hindu. Archived from the original on 2 February 2022. Retrieved 2 February 2022.
- ^ பாரதிராஜா, மை. (7 October 2021). ""அஜித் கற்றுத்தந்த ரகசியப் பாடம்!" – ஹெச்.வினோத் தரும் 'வலிமை' அப்டேட்". Ananda Vikatan (in Tamil). Archived from the original on 18 December 2021. Retrieved 18 December 2021.
- ^ "Ajith's character in 'Valimai' is based on a real-life cop!". Sify. 27 December 2021. Archived from the original on 25 January 2022. Retrieved 25 January 2022.
- ^ a b Rajendran, Gopinath (25 December 2021). "H Vinoth: Valimai is for the fans". Cinema Express. Archived from the original on 25 January 2022. Retrieved 25 January 2022.
- ^ "Janhvi Kapoor to make Tamil debut with Ajith's 'Thala 60'?". The Times of India. 1 August 2019. Archived from the original on 23 February 2020. Retrieved 23 October 2020.
- ^ "Call sheet issues stops Parineeti from acting in Valimai". The Times of India. 30 October 2019. Archived from the original on 18 June 2021. Retrieved 23 October 2020.
- ^ "Ileana or Yami Gautam to play the female lead in Valimai?". The Times of India. 13 December 2019. Archived from the original on 30 October 2020. Retrieved 23 October 2020.
- ^ Lakshmi, V. (21 January 2020). "Is Huma Qureshi in Ajith's Valimai?". The Times of India. Archived from the original on 11 November 2020. Retrieved 23 October 2020.
- ^ "H Vinoth: There is no romantic track in 'Valimai'!". Sify. 7 October 2021. Archived from the original on 7 October 2021. Retrieved 18 December 2021.
- ^ "Huma Qureshi's character in Ajith's 'Valimai' revealed". The Times of India. 7 October 2021. Archived from the original on 19 November 2021. Retrieved 2 February 2022.
- ^ "Ajay Devgn to play the villain in Thala 60". The Times of India. 29 August 2019. Archived from the original on 15 January 2021. Retrieved 23 October 2020.
- ^ "Aravind Swamy refused to act in Thala Ajith's 'Valimai'?". The Times of India. 22 November 2019. Archived from the original on 26 October 2020. Retrieved 23 October 2020.
- ^ "Prasanna to play the antagonist in Ajith's 'Valimai'?". The News Minute. 20 January 2020. Archived from the original on 27 February 2021. Retrieved 5 February 2021.
- ^ "Prasanna confirms he's not a part of Ajith's 'Valimai'". The News Minute. 21 January 2020. Archived from the original on 25 February 2021. Retrieved 5 February 2021.
- ^ "Kartikeya Gummakonda to play the antagonist in Ajith's Valimai?". The Times of India. 17 December 2019. Archived from the original on 11 November 2020. Retrieved 23 October 2020.
- ^ "Karthikeya talks about 'Valimai' for the first time, thanks Ajith fans". The Times of India. 22 September 2020. Archived from the original on 21 August 2023. Retrieved 21 August 2023.
- ^ "Thala Ajith to take on three villains in his upcoming cop drama 'Valimai'". The Times of India. 4 March 2020. Archived from the original on 27 October 2020. Retrieved 23 October 2020.
- ^ "'V1 Murder Case' director joins the cast of Ajith's Valimai". The Times of India. 29 December 2019. Archived from the original on 7 November 2020. Retrieved 23 October 2020.
- ^ "Malayalam actor Dhruvan also part of Valimai". onlookersmedia.in. 11 February 2021. Archived from the original on 22 September 2021. Retrieved 19 February 2021.
- ^ "H Vinoth: Tovino Thomas was the first choice for the villain role in Valimai". Cinema Express. 14 October 2021. Archived from the original on 25 January 2022. Retrieved 25 January 2022.
- ^ "Raj Ayyappa, villain from Atharva's '100', to play Ajith's brother in 'Valimai'?". The Times of India. 8 March 2020. Archived from the original on 25 January 2021. Retrieved 23 October 2020.
- ^ K., Janani (31 December 2020). "Ajith's leaked pic from Valimai takes social media by storm. Viral". India Today. Archived from the original on 28 February 2021. Retrieved 5 February 2021.
- ^ Manjula (1 January 2021). "Spotted: Kannada Actor Achyuth Kumar in Ajith's Valimai Viral Photo". The Hans India. Archived from the original on 9 February 2021. Retrieved 5 February 2021.
- ^ "'Veeram' actress Sumithra to play Ajith's mother in 'Valimai'". The Times of India. 3 December 2020. Archived from the original on 27 January 2021. Retrieved 5 February 2021.
- ^ "After 14 years, Ajith to have an emotional mother-son scene in 'Valimai'". The Times of India. 18 December 2020. Archived from the original on 18 January 2021. Retrieved 5 February 2021.
- ^ "Popular television star Pugazh to star in Ajith's 'Valimai'". The Times of India. 4 January 2021. Archived from the original on 18 January 2021. Retrieved 5 February 2021.
- ^ ""THIS WILL BE THE BEST MOVIE OF THALA!.." – VALIMAI ACTRESS' LATEST BREAKING STATEMENT! AJITH FANS, ASSEMBLE!". Behindwoods. 21 July 2020. Archived from the original on 8 November 2021. Retrieved 8 November 2021.
- ^ "Valimai censored U/A, runtime out for Ajith-starrer". Cinema Express. 31 December 2021. Archived from the original on 31 December 2021. Retrieved 5 January 2022.
- ^ "Ajith's 'Valimai' shooting to begin in December". The Times of India. 27 November 2019. Archived from the original on 22 September 2021. Retrieved 23 October 2020.
- ^ "Ajith's 'Valimai' with H Vinoth goes on floors". The News Minute. 14 December 2019. Archived from the original on 13 February 2021. Retrieved 5 February 2021.
- ^ Subramanian, Anupama (14 December 2019). "Thalapathy heroine to romance Thala?". Deccan Chronicle. Archived from the original on 14 December 2019. Retrieved 14 December 2019.
- ^ Suganth, M. (9 December 2019). "Ajith to start shooting for Vinoth's directorial in Hyderabad". The Times of India. Archived from the original on 10 November 2020. Retrieved 23 October 2020.
- ^ "An action sequence for Ajith in Hyderabad". The Times of India. 17 December 2019. Archived from the original on 22 April 2021. Retrieved 23 October 2020.
- ^ "First schedule of Ajith's 'Valimai' wrapped up". The Times of India. 25 December 2019. Archived from the original on 30 December 2019. Retrieved 23 October 2020.
- ^ "Ajith 'Valimai' team begins three day shooting schedule in Chennai". The Times of India. 28 December 2019. Archived from the original on 22 September 2021. Retrieved 23 October 2020.
- ^ CR, Sharanya (19 February 2020). "A bike-chase shoot leaves Ajith injured". The Times of India. Archived from the original on 27 October 2020. Retrieved 23 October 2020.
- ^ "#GetWellSoonTHALA: Ajith suffers an injury while shooting for 'Valimai', fans pray for the star's speedy recovery". The Times of India. 19 February 2020. Archived from the original on 30 October 2020. Retrieved 23 October 2020.
- ^ "Parts of Ajith's Valimai to be shot in Switzerland in April?". The Times of India. 27 January 2020. Archived from the original on 9 November 2020. Retrieved 23 October 2020.
- ^ Lakshmi, V. (9 March 2020). "Will Ajith head to Spain for some filmy action now?". The Times of India. Archived from the original on 9 December 2020. Retrieved 23 October 2020.
- ^ "Will Ajith's 'Valimai' team head to Spain & Morocco after lockdown?". The Times of India. 7 April 2020. Archived from the original on 12 December 2020. Retrieved 23 October 2020.
- ^ "Thala Ajith's 'Valimai' shooting schedules abroad doubtful amidst Coronavirus crisis?". The Times of India. 1 May 2020. Archived from the original on 8 November 2020. Retrieved 23 October 2020.
- ^ "Thala Ajith's 'Valimai' team planning to make major changes in shooting schedules?". The Times of India. 28 May 2020. Archived from the original on 26 October 2020. Retrieved 23 October 2020.
- ^ "Why Ajith's Valimai may not rush for post-production works?". The Times of India. 15 May 2020. Archived from the original on 17 May 2020. Retrieved 23 October 2020.
- ^ "Shoot for Ajith's 'Valimai' resumes after six-month hiatus". The News Minute. 26 September 2020. Archived from the original on 12 January 2021. Retrieved 5 February 2021.
- ^ "Thala Ajith's 'Valimai' shooting resumed in Chennai". The Times of India. 23 September 2020. Archived from the original on 6 October 2020. Retrieved 24 September 2020.
- ^ Lakshmi, V. (27 September 2020). "Kartikeya resumes shooting for Valimai; Ajith to join later". The Times of India. Archived from the original on 6 December 2020. Retrieved 23 October 2020.
- ^ "Ajith's 'Valimai' to be wrapped up by February 2021?". The News Minute. 15 September 2020. Archived from the original on 30 September 2020. Retrieved 5 February 2021.
- ^ "Ajith to complete the shooting of 'Valimai' by February 2021?". The Times of India. 14 September 2020. Archived from the original on 6 January 2021. Retrieved 23 October 2020.
- ^ "Thala Ajith's 'Valimai' to introduce 'new style stunt' in Tamil cinema". The Times of India. 1 October 2020. Archived from the original on 9 December 2020. Retrieved 23 October 2020.
- ^ "Team 'Valimai' not granted permission to shoot in Delhi amid coronavirus pandemic". The Times of India. 19 October 2020. Archived from the original on 24 November 2020. Retrieved 23 October 2020.
- ^ "Team 'Valimai' scouts for new location after government denies permission to shoot in Delhi". The Times of India. 19 October 2020. Archived from the original on 5 December 2020. Retrieved 23 October 2020.
- ^ "Ajith starrer 'Valimai' shooting schedule to commence from tomorrow in Hyderabad". The Times of India. 21 October 2020. Archived from the original on 27 November 2020. Retrieved 23 October 2020.
- ^ "'Valimai': A still from the sets of Ajith's next goes viral". The Times of India. 29 October 2020. Archived from the original on 6 January 2021. Retrieved 5 February 2021.
- ^ "Ajith to join the sets of 'Valimai' in Hyderabad from Sunday". The News Minute. 24 October 2020. Archived from the original on 22 September 2021. Retrieved 5 February 2021.
- ^ Lakshmi, V. (23 October 2020). "Ajith in Hyderabad; will resume shoot of Valimai from October 25". The Times of India. Archived from the original on 28 January 2021. Retrieved 5 February 2021.
- ^ "Director H Vinoth takes a crucial decision on 'Valimai' foreign schedule". The Times of India. 3 November 2020. Archived from the original on 10 December 2020. Retrieved 5 February 2021.
- ^ "Ajith to take a one month break to start the next phase of the 'Valimai' shooting". The Times of India. 17 November 2020. Archived from the original on 9 December 2020. Retrieved 5 February 2021.
- ^ "Ajith's bike stunt goes wrong, actor finishes the schedule despite injury". The Times of India. 26 November 2020. Archived from the original on 25 January 2021. Retrieved 5 February 2021.
- ^ "Ajith wraps up shoot of 'Valimai' schedule despite being injured". The News Minute. 27 November 2020. Archived from the original on 13 February 2021. Retrieved 5 February 2021.
- ^ "Making of Valimai: Ajith falls off a sports bike, gets up to complete shot, watch". Hindustan Times. 15 December 2021. Archived from the original on 18 December 2021. Retrieved 18 December 2021.
- ^ "'Valimai': Here's the latest update from Ajith's action drama". The Times of India. 29 December 2020. Archived from the original on 18 January 2021. Retrieved 5 February 2021.
- ^ "Ajith's 'Valimai' team waits for lockdown relaxations in European countries". The Times of India. 28 January 2021. Archived from the original on 5 February 2021. Retrieved 5 February 2021.
- ^ "Ajith's 'Valimai' team to move to South Africa next". The Times of India. 18 January 2021. Archived from the original on 26 January 2021. Retrieved 5 February 2021.
- ^ "Ajith's Valimai team to shoot high-risk bike-stunts only in Spain". The Times of India. 3 February 2021. Archived from the original on 3 February 2021. Retrieved 5 February 2021.
- ^ "'Valimai' to finish its shoot by February 15; Boney Kapoor confirms". The Times of India. 11 February 2021. Archived from the original on 11 February 2021. Retrieved 19 February 2021.
- ^ "Ajith's 'Valimai' team off to Russia to shoot an action sequence". The Times of India. 26 August 2021. Archived from the original on 19 November 2021. Retrieved 19 November 2021.
- ^ "Team 'Valimai' completes shooting its foreign schedule". The Times of India. 2 September 2021. Archived from the original on 19 November 2021. Retrieved 19 November 2021.
- ^ "Do you know Ajith Kumar's 'Valimai' used 4 brand-new cars, 150 motorbikes, and 80 days for action?". Daily News and Analysis. 20 February 2022. Archived from the original on 21 February 2022. Retrieved 21 February 2022.
- ^ "Post production of Ajith starrer Valimai to start soon". The News Minute. 13 February 2021. Archived from the original on 18 December 2021. Retrieved 18 December 2021.
- ^ "'Valimai': Ajith's action drama will be edited by Vijay Velukutty". The Times of India. 23 February 2021. Archived from the original on 18 December 2021. Retrieved 18 December 2021.
- ^ "'Valimai': Ajith completes dubbing for the film, says he is happy with the outcome". The Times of India. 26 March 2021. Archived from the original on 18 December 2021. Retrieved 18 December 2021.
- ^ "It's a wrap for Ajith's Valimai, film enters post production". DT Next. 3 September 2021. Archived from the original on 18 December 2021. Retrieved 18 December 2021.
- ^ "Ajith Kumar wraps up 'Valimai' shoot, post-production work to begin soon". Deccan Herald. 4 September 2021. Archived from the original on 18 December 2021. Retrieved 18 December 2021.
- ^ K., Janani (23 October 2021). "Valimai producer Boney Kapoor shares latest pics of Thala Ajith from his bike trip. Viral". India Today. Archived from the original on 18 December 2021. Retrieved 18 December 2021.
- ^ "Ajithkumar's change in plan for 'AK 61' after watching 'Valimai'". The Times of India. 4 December 2021. Archived from the original on 18 December 2021. Retrieved 18 December 2021.
- ^ "Not Yuvan Shankar Raja but THIS musician has composed the background music for Ajith's 'Valimai'". The Times of India. 2 January 2022. Archived from the original on 2 January 2022. Retrieved 3 January 2022.
- ^ "Ghibran, Not Yuvan Shankar Raja, to Compose Background Score For Ajith's Valimai?". News18. 10 January 2022. Archived from the original on 25 January 2022. Retrieved 25 January 2022.
- ^ "வலிமை படத்தின் பின்னணி இசையை மேற்கொள்ளும் ஜிப்ரான்- நடந்தது என்ன?". News18 (in Tamil). 9 January 2022. Archived from the original on 25 January 2022. Retrieved 25 January 2022.
- ^ "Did Yuvan Shankar Raja miss the final sound mixing of Valimai? - Hot update". IndiaGlitz.com. 22 February 2022. Archived from the original on 23 February 2022. Retrieved 23 February 2022.
- ^ a b "Confirmed: Not just Yuvan Shankar Raja, Ajith's Valimai to have one more music director - Pakka treat guaranteed!". Behindwoods. 17 February 2022. Archived from the original on 17 February 2022. Retrieved 17 February 2022.
- ^ "Sound designer MR Raja Krishnan on working with Ghibran for 'Valimai'". The Times of India. 23 February 2022. Archived from the original on 23 February 2022. Retrieved 23 February 2022.
- ^ Srikar, Ram Venkat (20 January 2022). "We have a repertoire of bone-breaking sound effects, says the duo behind 'Rocky's soundscape". The New Indian Express. Archived from the original on 25 January 2022. Retrieved 25 January 2022.
- ^ "Ajith's Valimai censored with an U/A certificate". The Times of India. 31 December 2021. Archived from the original on 25 January 2022. Retrieved 25 January 2022.
- ^ "15 cuts for Ajith's 'Valimai' at the censor". The Times of India. 7 January 2022. Archived from the original on 25 January 2022. Retrieved 25 January 2022.
- ^ "Details of why so many cuts in Ajith's 'Valimai' out". IndiaGlitz. 9 January 2022. Archived from the original on 25 January 2022. Retrieved 25 January 2022.
- ^ "Did Ajith Kumar watch Valimai today? - Viral photo fumes speculation!". IndiaGlitz. 11 February 2022. Archived from the original on 17 February 2022. Retrieved 17 February 2022.
- ^ "Ajith's Movie With H Vinoth Titled 'Valimai'; To Have Music By Yuvan Shankar Raja". Silverscreen.in. 18 October 2019. Archived from the original on 20 October 2019. Retrieved 20 November 2019.
- ^ "5 Songs In Ajith's Valimai!". Moviecrow. 14 April 2020. Archived from the original on 2 August 2021. Retrieved 2 August 2021.
- ^ "Yuvan Shankar Raja reveals the progress of Ajith's Valimai's music". The Times of India. 3 July 2020. Archived from the original on 7 November 2020. Retrieved 23 October 2020.
- ^ "Yuvan: Ajith suggested that I avoid guitar for 'Valimai' theme music". Sify. 22 October 2020. Archived from the original on 24 October 2020. Retrieved 23 October 2020.
- ^ K., Janani (15 December 2020). "Yuvan Shankar Raja shares update on Ajith's Valimai. See Instagram post". India Today. Archived from the original on 26 January 2021. Retrieved 5 February 2021.
- ^ "Yuvan Shankar Raja starts composing for Ajith's 'Valimai'". The News Minute. 16 December 2020. Archived from the original on 16 December 2020. Retrieved 5 February 2021.
- ^ "Ajith's 'Valimai' will have a different set of songs". The Times of India. 31 January 2021. Archived from the original on 20 June 2021. Retrieved 5 February 2021.
- ^ "Valimai's 1st single Vera Maari out to mark Ajith's 30 years in films". DT Next. 2 August 2021. Archived from the original on 2 August 2021. Retrieved 3 August 2021.
- ^ "The Lord of the Rings series, Allu Arjun, Fahadh Faasil's Pushpa release dates unveiled: Film, TV announcements round-up". Firstpost. 3 August 2021. Archived from the original on 3 August 2021. Retrieved 3 August 2021.
- ^ "Surprise! 'Valimai' first single to release tonight". The Times of India. 2 August 2021. Archived from the original on 19 November 2021. Retrieved 3 August 2021.
- ^ "Valimai song Naanga Vera Maari: When and where you can stream Ajith's song". The Indian Express. 2 August 2021. Archived from the original on 19 November 2021. Retrieved 3 August 2021.
- ^ "Thala Ajith fans get a Valimai update, first song Naanga Vera Maari out today". India Today. 2 August 2021. Archived from the original on 19 November 2021. Retrieved 3 August 2021.
- ^ "Thala Ajith's Valimai song Naanga Vera Maari hits 6 million views on YouTube". India Today. 3 August 2021. Archived from the original on 19 November 2021. Retrieved 3 August 2021.
- ^ "Breaking! Thala Ajith's 'Valimai' second single and teaser release dates are here". IndiaGlitz. 1 December 2021. Archived from the original on 1 December 2021. Retrieved 1 December 2021.
- ^ "Mother song from Ajith starrer Valimai is making everyone emotional". The Indian Express. 6 December 2021. Archived from the original on 6 January 2022. Retrieved 6 January 2022.
- ^ "Massive! Valimai Theme to be released today!". IndiaGlitz. 22 December 2021. Archived from the original on 22 December 2021. Retrieved 22 December 2021.
- ^ "Valimai: Whistle Theme From Ajith Kumar's Film Is Catchy and a Musical Treat for Fans (Watch Video)". LatestLY. 22 December 2021. Archived from the original on 22 December 2021. Retrieved 22 December 2021.
- ^ "வலிமை உடன் போடு வெடிய.. அஜித் ரசிகர்களுக்கு இன்றே காத்திருக்கும் சர்ப்ரைஸ்!". Behindwoods (in Tamil). 1 January 2022. Archived from the original on 2 January 2022. Retrieved 2 January 2022.
- ^ "Valimai (Original Motion Picture Soundtrack)". Spotify. 1 January 2022. Archived from the original on 5 January 2022. Retrieved 6 January 2022.
- ^ "Ghibran scores for Valimai? Yuvan's songs removed!". Moviecrow. 7 January 2022. Archived from the original on 25 January 2022. Retrieved 25 January 2022.
- ^ "Boney Kapoor clarifies on Valimai first look: No promotional activities due to Covid-19 crisis". India Today. 30 April 2020. Archived from the original on 5 June 2020. Retrieved 24 March 2021.
- ^ "Does this mean there will be no surprise announcement from team 'Valimai' on Ajith's birthday?". The Times of India. 30 April 2020. Archived from the original on 9 May 2020. Retrieved 24 March 2021.
- ^ a b c Ramanujam, Srinivasa (29 September 2021). "Boney Kapoor on 'Valimai': I have never seen a fan following like Ajith's". The Hindu. Archived from the original on 19 November 2021. Retrieved 19 November 2021.
- ^ "'Valimai' first look to release only after the film wraps up". The Times of India. 16 January 2021. Archived from the original on 25 February 2021. Retrieved 24 March 2021.
- ^ "Fans elated after Ajith tells them they will release all updates regarding Valimai by February end". The Times of India. 4 February 2021. Archived from the original on 4 February 2021. Retrieved 24 March 2021.
- ^ "Ajith fan asks England cricketer Moeen Ali for 'Valimai' update, video goes viral". The New Indian Express. 13 February 2021. Archived from the original on 19 March 2021. Retrieved 24 March 2021.
- ^ "Ajith fan asks R Ashwin for 'Valimai update' during test match, cricketer reacts". The News Minute. 17 February 2021. Archived from the original on 17 February 2021. Retrieved 24 March 2021.
- ^ "Video: Ajith fans request TN Chief Minister for 'Valimai' update". The Times of India. 8 February 2021. Archived from the original on 13 February 2021. Retrieved 24 March 2021.
- ^ "Ajith disappointed with people asking for Valimai update". The Times of India. 15 February 2021. Archived from the original on 19 February 2021. Retrieved 24 March 2021.
- ^ "#ValimaiUpdate: Boney Kapoor tweets about 'Valimai' first look". The Times of India. 15 February 2021. Archived from the original on 15 February 2021. Retrieved 24 March 2021.
- ^ "Official: Ajith's Valimai update from May 1". The Times of India. 15 March 2021. Archived from the original on 22 March 2021. Retrieved 24 March 2021.
- ^ "Ajith-starrer Valimai's first look will be delayed". The Times of India. 23 April 2021. Archived from the original on 19 May 2021. Retrieved 19 May 2021.
- ^ "Here's why Valimai first look release is delayed". The Times of India. 25 June 2021. Archived from the original on 19 November 2021. Retrieved 19 November 2021.
- ^ "Valimai motion poster: Ajith zooms into your heart with first look, watch video". The Indian Express. 12 July 2021. Archived from the original on 19 November 2021. Retrieved 19 November 2021.
- ^ "WATCH | Motion poster, first look from the Ajith-starrer 'Valimai' out". The New Indian Express. 11 July 2021. Archived from the original on 19 November 2021. Retrieved 19 November 2021.
- ^ "'Valimai' motion poster: Powerful, energetic, and charismatic look of Thala Ajith is here". The Times of India. 12 July 2021. Archived from the original on 19 November 2021. Retrieved 19 November 2021.
- ^ "Ajith's 'Valimai' motion-poster rakes in millions of views". The News Minute. 14 July 2021. Archived from the original on 19 November 2021. Retrieved 19 November 2021.
- ^ a b "Cinephiles disappointed by the motion poster of Ajith's 'Valimai'". The Times of India. 12 July 2021. Archived from the original on 19 November 2021. Retrieved 19 November 2021.
- ^ Chaubey, Pranita (15 December 2021). "Valimai Making: How Ajith Got Stunts Right Despite Falling". NDTV. Archived from the original on 18 December 2021. Retrieved 18 December 2021.
- ^ "Valimai mania in all transport stations including Chennai metro!". Moviecrow. 17 February 2022. Archived from the original on 18 February 2022. Retrieved 18 February 2022.
- ^ "Boney Kapoor announces the hot details of Ajith Kumar's 'Valimai' pre-release event!". IndiaGlitz.com. 21 February 2022. Archived from the original on 22 February 2022. Retrieved 22 February 2022.
- ^ "H Vinoth's short speech at the 'Valimai' pre-release event receives praise". The Times of India. 22 February 2022. Archived from the original on 22 February 2022. Retrieved 22 February 2022.
- ^ "Bheemla Nayak and Ajith's Valimai makers gear up for grand pre-release events; DETAILS INSIDE". Pinkvilla. 22 February 2022. Archived from the original on 22 February 2022. Retrieved 22 February 2022.
- ^ "Valimai: Huma Qureshi Shuffling Between Cities for Promotions of Ajith Co-Starrer Film". News18. 22 February 2022. Archived from the original on 22 February 2022. Retrieved 22 February 2022.
- ^ "Buy Groceries From SIMCO, Stand a Chance to get Free Tickets, Popcorn for Ajith's Valimai". News18. 23 February 2022. Archived from the original on 23 February 2022. Retrieved 23 February 2022.
- ^ "Will Thala Ajith's 'Valimai' be delayed or will it release in Diwali as announced?". The Times of India. 20 March 2020. Archived from the original on 28 October 2020. Retrieved 23 October 2020.
- ^ "Is Thala Ajith's 'Valimai' postponed to January 2021?". The Times of India. 13 April 2020. Archived from the original on 22 August 2023. Retrieved 22 August 2023.
- ^ "Ajith Kumar's 'Valimai' first look is out". The Hindu. 11 July 2021. Archived from the original on 19 November 2021. Retrieved 19 November 2021.
- ^ "Ajith's Valimai to hit the screens on Pongal 2022; to clash with Prabhas' Radhe Shyam at the box office". Bollywood Hungama. 22 September 2021. Archived from the original on 22 September 2021. Retrieved 22 September 2021.
- ^ "Will 'Valimai' clash with RRR?". Sify. 5 August 2021. Archived from the original on 19 November 2021. Retrieved 19 November 2021.
- ^ "Ajith Kumar's 'Valimai' to release on January 14?". Sify. 16 December 2021. Archived from the original on 18 December 2021. Retrieved 18 December 2021.
- ^ "Ajith's 'Valimai' Gets U/A Certificate By The Censor Board, Will Hit Theatres On January 13". ABP Live. IANS. 1 January 2022. Archived from the original on 25 January 2022. Retrieved 25 January 2022.
- ^ a b "Ajith's 'Valimai' set to break the opening day box office record in Tamil Nadu". The Times of India. 7 December 2021. Archived from the original on 18 December 2021. Retrieved 18 December 2021.
- ^ Keshri, Shweta (6 January 2022). "Ajith's Valimai postponed due to rising Covid-19 cases". India Today. Archived from the original on 6 January 2022. Retrieved 6 January 2022.
- ^ "Ajith's Valimai release postponed due to rising COVID-19 cases". The News Minute. 6 January 2022. Archived from the original on 25 January 2022. Retrieved 25 January 2022.
- ^ "Ajith Kumar's Valimai pushed indefinitely due to spike in Covid-19 cases, Boney Kapoor confirms". Hindustan Times. 6 January 2022. Archived from the original on 25 January 2022. Retrieved 25 January 2022.
- ^ "Ajith Kumar's Valimai to hit the theatres on February 24. Boney Kapoor says wait is truly over". India Today. 2 February 2022. Archived from the original on 2 February 2022. Retrieved 2 February 2022.
- ^ "Confirmed! Ajith's 'Valimai' releasing in 3 languages on January 13th". The Times of India. 4 January 2022. Archived from the original on 25 January 2022. Retrieved 25 January 2022.
- ^ "Final Valimai update? Ajith's much-awaited film will hit theatres this month". The News Minute. 2 February 2022. Archived from the original on 2 February 2022. Retrieved 2 February 2022.
- ^ "Ajith's 'Valimai' to be a Pan India release; film to be dubbed in Malayalam and Kannada versions too". The Times of India. 12 January 2022. Archived from the original on 25 January 2022. Retrieved 25 January 2022.
- ^ a b "KING OF OPENING அஜித் வரார்! "வலிமை" பட கேரள வினியோகஸ்தர் கொடுத்த வேறமாரியான ரிலீஸ் தகவல்!". Behindwoods (in Tamil). 19 February 2022. Archived from the original on 20 February 2022. Retrieved 20 February 2022.
- ^ "'Valimai' Makers To Cut Short Run Time By 15 Minutes". Outlook. 25 February 2022. Archived from the original on 26 February 2022. Retrieved 26 February 2022.
- ^ a b c "Ajith Kumar's Valimai to Premiere in Almost all Theatres in Madurai on February 24". News18. 10 February 2022. Archived from the original on 17 February 2022. Retrieved 17 February 2022.
- ^ "'Valimai' becomes the first film to release with more than 1000 screens occupancy in Tamil Nadu". The Times of India. 23 February 2022. Archived from the original on 23 February 2022. Retrieved 23 February 2022.
- ^ "Ajith's 'Valimai' occupies all theaters in Madurai". The Times of India. 8 February 2022. Archived from the original on 17 February 2022. Retrieved 17 February 2022.
- ^ "VALIMAI: மதுரை மாவடடததில சததமிலலாமல செம சமபவம செயத அஜித நடிககும வலிமை படம!". Behindwoods (in Tamil). 8 February 2022. Archived from the original on 8 February 2022. Retrieved 17 February 2022.
- ^ "Valimai Box Office Advance Booking Update: Manages To Amass 2 Million Likes On A Ticket Booking Platform!". Koimoi. 21 February 2022. Archived from the original on 21 February 2022. Retrieved 21 February 2022.
- ^ "Record shattering bookings are done for 'Valimai'; fans raise cutouts of Ajith outside theatres". The Times of India. 21 February 2022. Archived from the original on 22 February 2022. Retrieved 22 February 2022.
- ^ "Ahead of February 24 Premiere, Ajith's Valimai Almost Sold Out in Tamil Nadu". News18. 22 February 2022. Archived from the original on 22 February 2022. Retrieved 22 February 2022.
- ^ "'Valimai' FDFS time in Tamil Nadu locked; deets inside!". The Times of India. 16 February 2022. Archived from the original on 16 February 2022. Retrieved 20 February 2022.
- ^ "Will Ajith's Valimai Challenge Rajinikanth and Vijay's Box Office Supremacy?". News18. 17 February 2022. Archived from the original on 17 February 2022. Retrieved 17 February 2022.
- ^ Suganth, M (20 February 2022). "Ajith sir told me he feels proud to have done this film: H Vinoth". The Times of India. Archived from the original on 23 February 2022. Retrieved 23 February 2022.
- ^ "Valimai coming: What's in store for Ajith fans, audiences and theatre owners?". The News Minute. 6 February 2022. Archived from the original on 17 February 2022. Retrieved 17 February 2022.
- ^ Suganth, M. (13 February 2022). "Valimai will be Ajith's first pan-India film: Boney Kapoor". The Times of India. Archived from the original on 16 February 2022. Retrieved 17 February 2022.
- ^ "Ajith hosts special screening of Valimai for his parents; Director H Vinoth spills the beans on their reaction". Pinkvilla. 20 February 2022. Archived from the original on 22 February 2022. Retrieved 23 February 2022.
- ^ "Here's How Ajith Kumar Reacted After Watching Valimai, Hosted A Special Screening For Parents". News18. 20 February 2022. Archived from the original on 23 February 2022. Retrieved 23 February 2022.
- ^ K., Janani (17 February 2022). "Boney Kapoor announces Valimai Day as Ajith's film is all set for a grand release on Feb 24". India Today. Archived from the original on 17 February 2022. Retrieved 17 February 2022.
- ^ "It's a wrap for Pawan Kalyan's Bheemla Nayak, all set for release next week". The Indian Express. 17 February 2022. Archived from the original on 17 February 2022. Retrieved 17 February 2022.
- ^ "Alia Bhatt's Gangubai Kathiawadi to clash with Ajith Kumar's Valimai". Pinkvilla. 2 February 2022. Archived from the original on 17 February 2022. Retrieved 17 February 2022.
- ^ I V Y Productions [@IVYProductions9] (16 February 2022). "#Valimai Theater count estimate Telugu – 500+ Counting (Telangana & Andhrapradesh) Biggest release for #AjithKumar Sir 🔥" (Tweet) – via Twitter.
- ^ Aakashavaani [@TheAakashavaani] (18 February 2022). "#Valimai releasing in 60 Locs in Australia & 19 Locs in New Zealand. Biggest ever release for #ThalaAjith" (Tweet) – via Twitter.
- ^ a b Hamsini Entertainment [@Hamsinient] (18 February 2022). "Here is #Valimai Tamil & Telugu USA Theaters list 😎 #ValimaiUSA Release by @Hamsinient 🇺🇸 #ValimaiUSAPremiere Shows on 23rd Feb 💪" (Tweet) – via Twitter.
- ^ "Janhvi Kapoor to watch 'Valimai' in world's largest theatre". The Times of India. 17 February 2022. Archived from the original on 17 February 2022. Retrieved 17 February 2022.
- ^ "Ajith's Valimai Screening In France Cancelled". News18. 19 February 2022. Archived from the original on 19 February 2022. Retrieved 20 February 2022.
- ^ "Ajith's 'Valimai' early bookings opened in Japan". The Times of India. 7 February 2022. Archived from the original on 7 February 2022. Retrieved 21 February 2022.
- ^ "Fan Show of Valimai To Be Held in Saudi Arabia on February 24. Here's Why it's a Big Thing". News18. 22 February 2022. Archived from the original on 22 February 2022. Retrieved 22 February 2022.
- ^ "Ajith's 'Valimai' earns Rs. 200 crore before release; Deets inside". The Times of India. 6 July 2021. Archived from the original on 18 December 2021. Retrieved 18 December 2021.
- ^ "Ajith's 'Valimai' grosses over 300 crores in pre-release business". The Times of India. 14 February 2022. Archived from the original on 17 February 2022. Retrieved 17 February 2022.
- ^ "Valimai Box Office Theatrical Rights (Worldwide) Update: With 96 Crore, Ajith Kumar Beats His Own Vivegam". Koimoi. 22 February 2022. Archived from the original on 23 February 2022. Retrieved 23 February 2022.
- ^ a b c Perumal, Ganesh. "Valimai Movie : ரிலீசுக்கு முன்பே வசூலில் வாகைசூடிய வலிமை!! யம்மாடியோ... இத்தனை கோடியா?". Asianet News (in Tamil). Archived from the original on 15 February 2022. Retrieved 17 February 2022.
- ^ "Ajith Kumar-starrer Valimai Pre-release Business Breaks Records. Details Inside". News18. 23 February 2022. Archived from the original on 23 February 2022. Retrieved 23 February 2022.
- ^ "'Valimai' theatrical rights sold even before the film completes its shoot". The Times of India. 30 March 2021. Archived from the original on 19 May 2021. Retrieved 19 May 2021.
- ^ a b "Ajith's Valimai all area rights sold!". Moviecrow. 5 December 2021. Archived from the original on 18 December 2021. Retrieved 18 December 2021.
- ^ a b "Thala Ajith's 'Valimai' business kick starts in TN!". Sify. 1 December 2021. Archived from the original on 1 December 2021. Retrieved 1 December 2021.
- ^ "Valimai Movie Chengalpattu Area Rights Bagged by This Distributor". Behindwoods. 2 December 2021. Archived from the original on 2 December 2021. Retrieved 18 December 2021.
- ^ "Valimai Movie North South Arcot Rights Bagged by This Distributor". Behindwoods. 2 December 2021. Archived from the original on 18 December 2021. Retrieved 18 December 2021.
- ^ a b "Valimai Worldwide Pre-Release Business: Here's How Much Ajith's Actioner Has Earned Before Its Grand Release". Filmibeat. 22 December 2021. Archived from the original on 22 December 2021. Retrieved 26 January 2022.
- ^ I V Y Productions [@IVYProductions9] (15 February 2022). "And the countdown begins! Just in 9 days, the action-packed sequences of #Valimai will be hitting the big screens!💥🔥" (Tweet) – via Twitter.
- ^ BayViewProjectsLLP [@BayViewProjOffl] (23 December 2021). "We are happy to announce our association with E4 entertainment for releasing #Valimai in Kerala" (Tweet) – via Twitter.
- ^ BayViewProjectsLLP [@BayViewProjOffl] (31 December 2021). "We are happy to announce our association with Kamar Film Factory for the release of #Valimai in Karnataka" (Tweet) – via Twitter.
- ^ "Thala Ajith's 'Valimai' overseas rights sold!". Sify. 26 December 2020. Archived from the original on 26 January 2022. Retrieved 26 January 2022.
- ^ "Valimai's overseas rights sold; trends on Twitter, fans seek updates from makers". Asianet News. 28 December 2020. Archived from the original on 26 January 2022. Retrieved 26 January 2022.
- ^ Lotus Five Star AV [@LotusFivestarAV] (16 July 2021). "The wait is finally over! 🏍🌟🌟 #VALIMAIxLFS" (Tweet) – via Twitter.
- ^ Zee Studios [@ZeeStudios_] (17 February 2022). "We are happy to announce our association with #AEightFilms for the release of #Valimai in Nepal" (Tweet) – via Twitter.
- ^ "Thala Ajith's 'Valimai' does all time record business even before first look release – Full details". IndiaGlitz. 5 July 2021. Archived from the original on 18 December 2021. Retrieved 18 December 2021.
- ^ a b "Valimai First Look in April? OTT Release plans out now!". Moviecrow. 27 February 2021. Archived from the original on 18 December 2021. Retrieved 18 December 2021.
- ^ Pinto, Viveat Susan (25 May 2021). "Zee bets on hybrid movie model even as Salman's Radhe gets mixed response". Business Standard. Archived from the original on 18 December 2021. Retrieved 18 December 2021.
"Their upcoming release might include the Ajith Kumar-actioner Valimai which will be premiered through pay-per-view only after 35 days of theatrical release
- ^ "'Valimai' 2-day box office collection: Ajith Kumar-starrer stays strong". Deccan Herald. 26 February 2022. Archived from the original on 26 February 2022. Retrieved 26 February 2022.
Valimai received mixed to negative reviews with critics lauding Ajith's 'massy' performance but criticising the second half.
- ^ Suganth, M. (24 February 2022). "Valimai Movie Review: Ajith's one-man show". The Times of India. Archived from the original on 24 February 2022. Retrieved 24 February 2022.
- ^ K, Janani (24 February 2022). "Valimai Movie Review: Ajith's film is a crowd-pleaser". India Today. Archived from the original on 24 February 2022. Retrieved 24 February 2022.
- ^ "Valimai Movie Review: This Ajith-starrer is amped up by superb action blocks". Pinkvilla. 24 February 2022. Archived from the original on 24 February 2022. Retrieved 24 February 2022.
- ^ Aiyappan, Ashameera (24 February 2022). "Valimai movie review: Ajith, Kartikeya face off in H Vinoth's ineffective film with interesting ideas". Firstpost. Archived from the original on 24 February 2022. Retrieved 24 February 2022.
- ^ M V, Vivek (24 February 2022). "'Valimai' movie review: All stunts and no glory". Deccan Herald. Archived from the original on 25 February 2022. Retrieved 24 February 2022.
- ^ R, Manoj Kumar (24 February 2022). "Valimai review: Ajith Kumar pops a wheelie. That's all". The Indian Express. Archived from the original on 24 February 2022. Retrieved 24 February 2022.
- ^ Punwani, Umesh (24 February 2022). "Valimai Movie Review: Film's Title Means 'Strength' In English & That's What Required To Watch This Ajith Starrer!". Koimoi. Archived from the original on 25 February 2022. Retrieved 24 February 2022.
- ^ Rajendran, Sowmya (24 February 2022). "Valimai review: Ajith's bike zooms while the story is stuck in a pothole". The News Minute. Archived from the original on 27 February 2022. Retrieved 24 February 2022.
- ^ "Valimai Movie Review: Valimai". Bollywood Hungama. 24 February 2022. Archived from the original on 24 February 2022. Retrieved 25 February 2022.
- ^ Subramanian, Lakshmi (24 February 2022). "'Valimai' review: With lots of bikes and a weak plot, Ajith's film is a test of patience". The Week. Archived from the original on 24 February 2022. Retrieved 25 February 2022.
- ^ "'Valimai' review: The bikes defy gravity and the plot defies logic". Scroll.in. 24 February 2022. Archived from the original on 25 February 2022. Retrieved 25 February 2022.
- ^ Shrikrishna, Aditya (24 February 2022). "'Valimai' Movie Review: Ajith Kumar's Film Is a Shoddily Produced Tepid Affair". The Quint. Archived from the original on 24 February 2022. Retrieved 24 February 2022.
- ^ Thaivalappil, Nishad (24 February 2022). "Valimai Movie Review: Ajith Kumar Fans in for a Treat, But Film Will Give a Headache to Others". News18. Archived from the original on 24 February 2022. Retrieved 24 February 2022.
- ^ Pudipeddi, Haricharan (24 February 2022). "Valimai review: Terrific action in Ajith Kumar film supersedes predictable story". Hindustan Times. Archived from the original on 24 February 2022. Retrieved 24 February 2022.
- ^ S, Srivatsan (24 February 2022). "'Valimai' movie review: The 'Amma' sentiment ruins this otherwise thrilling Ajith Kumar-starrer". The Hindu. Archived from the original on 26 February 2022. Retrieved 24 February 2022.
- ^ S. Srivatsan (7 January 2022). "The 'pan-Indian' strategy of Telugu cinema". The Hindu. Archived from the original on 10 January 2022. Retrieved 16 September 2022.
- ^ "Tamil Film Valimai Sets Record And Telugu Film Bheemla Nayak Huge Start". Box Office India. 25 February 2022. Archived from the original on 26 February 2022.
- ^ "Valimai box office: Ajith Kumar defeats Vijay & Rajinikanth; collects Rs. 30 crore gross on opening day". Bollywood Hungama. 25 February 2022. Archived from the original on 7 March 2022. Retrieved 7 March 2022.
- ^ Rishita Roy Chowdhury (27 February 2022). "Valimai box office collection Day 3: Ajith's film with terrific opening continues to draw huge crowd". India Today. Archived from the original on 27 February 2022. Retrieved 27 February 2022.
- ^ "A plagiarism case filed against Ajith's 'Valimai' almost after a year of its release". The Times of India. 11 February 2023. Archived from the original on 24 February 2023. Retrieved 24 February 2023.
- ^ a b Upadhyaya, Prakash (11 July 2021). "Ajith's Valimai 1st Look: Here's Celebrities Reaction to Ajith's Mass Poster". International Business Times. Archived from the original on 19 November 2021. Retrieved 19 November 2021.
- ^ a b "Ajith fan asks R Ashwin for 'Valimai update' during test match, cricketer reacts". The News Minute. 17 February 2021. Archived from the original on 17 February 2021. Retrieved 19 November 2021.
- ^ a b "'What is Valimai?': Moeen Ali's confused question to Ravichandran Ashwin". The Indian Express. 17 February 2021. Archived from the original on 19 November 2021. Retrieved 19 November 2021.
- ^ Narayani (24 September 2021). "Valimai Pongal: Seven reasons why Ajith Kumar's 60th film is the most-anticipated Thala movie ever!". Behindwoods. Archived from the original on 8 November 2021. Retrieved 19 November 2021.
- ^ "Watch: Moeen Ali Speaks about 'Valimai Update' Incident During Chennai Test". News18. 28 September 2021. Archived from the original on 19 November 2021. Retrieved 19 November 2021.
- ^ "நான் வெற்றி பெற்ற உடன் நிச்சயமாக 'வலிமை' அப்டேட் கிடைக்கும் தம்பி: வானதியின் நகைச்சுவை ட்வீட்". Hindu Tamil Thisai (in Tamil). 15 March 2021. Archived from the original on 19 November 2021. Retrieved 19 November 2021.
- ^ "Whoa! The government finally gives a 'Valimai' update rocking the internet". IndiaGlitz. 10 March 2021. Archived from the original on 19 November 2021. Retrieved 19 November 2021.
- ^ "Valimai sets a new record on the internet; first look expected to release in July". Times Now. 25 June 2021. Archived from the original on 18 December 2021. Retrieved 18 December 2021.
- ^ "This Was The Most-Tweeted Hashtag Of 2021 In India". NDTV. 23 August 2021. Archived from the original on 18 December 2021. Retrieved 18 December 2021.
- ^ "Vijay's 'Master' and Ajith's 'Valimai' most tweeted-about movies in India in 2021". The Hindu. 9 December 2021. Archived from the original on 11 December 2021. Retrieved 18 December 2021.
- ^ "Master, Valimai are among 2021's most popular movies on Twitter; Sonu Sood, Alia Bhatt top actors chart". The Indian Express. 9 December 2021. Archived from the original on 18 December 2021. Retrieved 18 December 2021.
- ^ "Boney Kapoor drops hint about Valimai sequel, says his relationship with Ajith is growing". The Indian Express. 18 February 2022. Archived from the original on 17 February 2022. Retrieved 18 February 2022.
Notes
[edit]- ^ News18 and Dainik Jagran both published that the film made ₹163.2 crore worldwide in its lifetime.[4][5] The Times of India reported that the film grossed ₹234 crore worldwide.[6]
External links
[edit]- 2022 films
- 2020s masala films
- 2020s police procedural films
- 2022 action thriller films
- Action films based on actual events
- Fictional portrayals of the Tamil Nadu Police
- Film productions suspended due to the COVID-19 pandemic
- Films about drugs
- Films about human trafficking in India
- Films about murder
- Films about organised crime in India
- Films about outlaws
- Films postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic
- Films scored by Yuvan Shankar Raja
- Films set in Chennai
- Films set in Russia
- Films shot at Ramoji Film City
- Films shot in Chennai
- Films shot in Hyderabad, India
- Films shot in Russia
- Indian action thriller films
- Indian police films
- Motorcycle racing films
- Police detective films
- Thriller films based on actual events
- Films directed by H. Vinoth
- 2020s Indian films
- Tamil-language Indian films
- Films involved in plagiarism controversies
- Outlaw biker films
- Films about the illegal drug trade
- Films about cybercrime
- Films set in Madurai
- Indian family films