Arun Vijay Interview: On ‘Vanangaan’, Working In Bala’s Comeback Film, And His Career Evolution
With Vanangaan, Bala’s comeback film, Vijay is taking another career leap: not only by shouldering a highly anticipated comeback, but by taking over from Suriya, who was initially supposed to headline this film
Arun Vijay is an actor celebrated for his resilience, versatility, and ability to reinvent himself. After an initial struggle to find his place in Kollywood, Vijay broke out with roles in movies such as Pandavar Bhoomi, Thadaiyara Thaakka and Yennai Arindhaal, to mention a few. Known for his intense and unconventional roles, the star has since then consistently pushed boundaries, earning acclaim for films like Kuttram 23 (2017), Chekka Chivantha Vaanam (2018) and Thadam (2019).
With Bala’s comeback film — the upcoming release Vanangaan — the actor is taking another career leap: not only by shouldering a highly-anticipated Pongal outing, but also by taking over from Suriya who was initially supposed to headline this film.
Edited excerpts from a conversation:
Bala mentioned that Suriya was originally approached for Vanangaan, but had to exit due to logistical challenges. What were your initial thoughts when approached for this film, and how was your experience during the shoot?
First of all, it was a great opportunity. Working with Bala sir has been a long-time dream of mine. When he approached me, I was excited, but also wanted to make sure everything was clear. Suriya sir is a close family friend too, so I called him immediately to share the news. He was very happy for me and encouraged me to go ahead.
Bala sir is known for completely transforming his actors, and I was ready for that challenge. He changes everything—the look, the body language, the performance. My look for this film was so unrecognisable that it actually worked in our favour. We shot in crowded locations, and people didn’t realise it was me... until they noticed the camera.
This helped us manage the logistics seamlessly.
You've had a significant resurgence post-2015, with films like Yennai Arindhaal, Chekka Chivantha Vaanam, and Thadam. How did you turn your career around in an industry that often sidelines talent after setbacks?
My early years were tough. Those struggles taught me a lot and matured me as an actor. The confidence I had, and the motivation from fans and well-wishers, pushed me forward.
Post-2015, I started being very selective with scripts, focusing on roles that stood out. My role as Victor in Yennai Arindhaal opposite Ajith sir was a game-changer. From there, I consciously avoided being typecast, doing films like Kuttram 23, which became a blockbuster, and Thadam which was later remade in Hindi as Gumraah (2023).
Working with directors like Gautham Menon, Mani Ratnam, and Magizh Thirumeni shaped me. They helped me refine my strengths, and I became clear about the kind of scripts I wanted— the ones that connected with the audience.
Even if it takes time, I prefer waiting for the right story.
What is your top priority when choosing a script now?
The script has to engage and connect with the audience—that’s my main priority. I don’t just focus on my character; I look at the entire story and how all the characters interact. Once I’m convinced of the script’s potential, I work on differentiating my role through unique looks and performances.
In today’s landscape, with OTT platforms exposing audiences to global cinema, it’s even more critical to offer something fresh—whether through emotional depth, realistic characters, or a theatrical experience.
Bala is known for his intense filmmaking. What was it like working with him on Vanangaan, and were there any challenges during production?
Bala sir is a filmmaker who loves his craft. I knew going in that I had to give my 100 per cent and completely surrender to his vision. The character he designed for me was complex and challenging, but I love challenges.
The story is deeply emotional too—I connected with it the moment I heard it, and I believe the audience will too. Every day on-set was a learning experience. Bala sir is so invested in his actors’ performances that sometimes he would forget to call “cut”, because he’d be emotionally absorbed.
We also kept the action raw, without ropes or safety measures. That’s Bala sir’s style — real and rustic. I was ready for it, and with Silva master as the stunt choreographer, I felt confident. He knows my capabilities from our previous collaborations, so it was seamless.
Many of your roles, like those in Kuttram 23 and the web-series Tamil Rockerz (2022), deviate from the traditional hero archetype. Is this a conscious choice?
Absolutely. I don’t want to be boxed into a stereotype. I’m drawn to characters that are realistic, layered, and often unconventional. For instance, in Tamil Rockerz, the protagonist isn’t your typical hero [and there is] no dancing or punch dialogues. I enjoy exploring such roles because they challenge me as an actor.
That said, I’m not averse to doing more mainstream, song-and-dance films, if the script is good. For me, it’s all about how engaging the story is and whether it connects with the audience.
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Vanangaan is being touted as Bala’s comeback after a hiatus. Do you feel an added responsibility for the film’s success?
Definitely.
We all want the film to succeed, but more importantly, I want the audience to celebrate Bala sir as the brilliant creator he is. This generation of movie-goers hasn’t fully experienced his genius yet, and Vanangaan will showcase his emotional and raw storytelling. It’s an honour to be part of this journey, and I’m eagerly waiting for audiences to witness it.