A wave of excitement has overtaken the internet ever since the trailer for Vijay’s highly anticipated film, GOAT, directed by Venkat Prabhu, was released this past weekend. The fervor among fans and netizens is palpable, with conversations abuzz regarding fan theories and fervent speculation about the film’s plot. Yet, it isn’t just the trailer that has captured the public’s imagination; Venkat Prabhu’s clever responses at the trailer launch event have also become a major talking point on social media.
Known for his sharp wit and humor, Director Venkat Prabhu did not disappoint when addressing the media and fans’ questions at the event. Questions ranged from Vijay’s anticipated political career and his dual roles in the film, to comparisons with Hollywood’s Gemini Man and the innovative de-aging technology used in GOAT. Each query was met with Venkat’s quick-witted and insightful replies, making the event as entertaining as the film’s trailer itself.
Describing his gratitude to the producers and technical team behind the upcoming film, Venkat acknowledged the mixed reactions to music composer Yuvan Shankar Raja’s latest songs. “I understand that the songs have sparked diverse opinions,” Venkat stated. “However, I’m confident that once the film releases, these songs will provide a visual feast for the audience,” he elaborated, expressing high hopes for Yuvan’s work in the movie.
The trailer reveals Vijay in dual roles, with one of the characters portrayed as significantly younger using advanced de-aging technology. This revelation has amplified the excitement surrounding the film, especially with hints that there might be a third character woven into the narrative. Despite the buzz, skepticism has surfaced about the de-aged look of Vijay, particularly following the lyrical video release of the song ‘Spark.’
Addressing these concerns, Venkat explained, “We aimed to depict the second character as a young man around 22 or 23 years old. Even Vijay sir wanted the character to bear a strong resemblance to his younger self. Given how familiar the audience is with his face, any drastic change would be jarring. This process has been a steep learning curve for us. After receiving feedback from the ‘Spark’ video, we made sure not to overdo the de-aging technology, which partly caused the delay in the trailer release. What you see in the trailer is the closest to the final version that will hit the theatres,” said Venkat, assuring viewers that their concerns have been addressed.
The incorporation of de-aging technology and Vijay’s portrayal of a father-son duo led to comparisons with Will Smith’s 2019 film, Gemini Man. Venkat dismissed these comparisons, labeling them “unfair.
.” He clarified, “Gemini Man was pioneering with its use of de-aging technology. Just because our film also utilizes similar technology for a younger version does not equate it to Gemini Man. If that were the case, then my film Chennai 28 II, which involves a groom disappearing before his wedding, could similarly be compared to Hangover. But does that make it the same story?” he questioned, urging critics to see GOAT for its own unique narrative.
Earlier this year, Vijay announced his political party, Tamizhaga Vetri Kazhagam, and declared his intention to contest the 2026 Tamil Nadu Assembly elections. Rumors that Vijay influenced the inclusion of political content in GOAT were firmly rejected by Venkat. “Vijay sir remains unintrusive when it comes to the creative process of filmmaking. GOAT is purely a commercial venture and bears no political undertones,” he clarified.
Additionally, Vijay has stated that Thalapathy 69, directed by H Vinoth, will be his final film before diving fully into politics. Venkat expressed his wishes for Vijay to continue acting but noted he did not broach political topics with the star. “As a fan, I did request him to keep acting. He simply smiled and said, ‘Let’s see.'”
Venkat, who also directed Ajith Kumar’s Mankatha, now joins an elite group of directors who have worked with both Vijay and Ajith. The GOAT trailer includes a line reminiscent of a dialogue from Mankatha. Venkat asserted that the reference was not intended to cater to Ajith’s fans exclusively. “It’s not an Ajith dialogue; it’s a Venkat Prabhu dialogue. Both actors have delivered the line in their respective films, that’s all,” Venkat explained, adding that Ajith had watched the trailer and extended his congratulations to Vijay and the team.
Regarding an audio launch for GOAT, Venkat commented that the decision rests with Vijay and additional announcements would follow soon.
GOAT, starring Meenakshi Chaudhary, Sneha, Laila, Ajmal Ameer, and Vaibhav, is produced by Kalpathi S Aghoram of AGS Entertainment and is slated for release on September 5, 2024, coinciding with Vinayaka Chaturthi. The anticipation continues to build, promising fans an exhilarating cinematic experience come release day.
Tamil cinema
/ Indian cinema
