More than being just an actor/producer, Vishal, with his multifarious welfare activities such as helping out during the recent floods, supporting struggling theatre artistes in his capacity as Nadigar Sangam secretary, and fighting video piracy in Tamil cinema, has become a force to reckon with. Now that his film Maruthu, in which he teams up with Sridivya, is all set to hit the marquee, the actor fumes about the piracy menace. He appears to be annoyed with the industry.
“I am the only one raising a voice against piracy and getting into action, and I will continue doing so. Suriya’s 24 is already available on the grey market and I know from where it is being done. But no one takes a step,” he says.
Vishal adds, “At this moment, video pirates would probably be busy printing DVD covers and stickers for Maruthu! This time I am not going to let them go scot-free. A day before the release (May 19), I will do the groundwork with my friends and find out from which theatre they are being copied, and immediately alert the Producers’ Council. If they don’t take action, I will outline my course of action at a press conference. I am going to take a very strong stand this time. Enough is enough.”
He also tells us, “Like how Sandakozhi gave me a big break and recognition, Maruthu will take me to even the remotest villages in Tamil Nadu. This is an important film in my career. After Avan Ivan with Bala sir, it is Muthaiah’s Maruthu to which I surrendered fully.” He also announced that Muthaiah’s next film would be produced by his banner, irrespective of whether he plays the lead.
