South Indian Film Stars For The Uninitiated.

[krissh]

BREAKING NEWS:

It is entirely possible that Vikram is incredibly hot.

The harem is beginning to collectively pout...

I think I'll keep him on the "Potential Inductee" list for further observation.

[leaf]

BREAKING NEWS:

It is entirely possible that Vikram is incredibly hot.

Nothing "possible" about it. It is a commonly acknowledged fact that Vikram is seriously, seriously sexy. Btw, you should check out the Dhool thread.
http://www.bollywhat-forum.com/index.php?topic=15257.msg383254#msg383254

[chinchinchu]

After discussion on recent thread about people who are from NI being adverse to watching SI films, and various mentions there of how handsome Vikram is, I came to this thread to see his picture but unfortunately his is the only one (in the long posts w/ gazillions of photos) not loading. I also looked at a thread for one of his films, linked from the other thread I was looking at, and did not see anything special about him there, but maybe it is the particular get-up he had in that film, or maybe he is one of those people that don't do as well in a still photo as in action. Anyway, Vikram fans, please post your favorite photo of him (I didn't see a stargazing thread for him and if I google him I might get the wrong Vikram, seeing as I just know the one name for him.) Try your best to convince me, thanks!

[krissh]

Part of Vikram's attraction is his charisma, which comes out in the characters he portrays. Anniyan, was a fascinating and impressive change for him. Although, he is one of those actors who is willing to ugly up if it fits the needs of the character and director. He is more of a method actor, "Kasi" and "Pithamagan" were earlier examples of his willingness to take risks. Otherwise, he does a kickass job of...well, kicking ass. He's built like a tank, and still dances with grace and an obvious enjoyment. He is incredibly active in charity work, and I have come to realize that I really really like the social messages. Vikram is committed to yanking people out of their torpor and apathy. He is also committed to being the best actor that he can, and his choices in roles reflect that. He's also just as good at comedy and goofiness, as he is at making bad guys cry.

google images has a ton of photos.

Other people might be turning their noses up at SI cinema, but I seem to be doing the opposite, losing interest in Bollywood.

[leaf]

After discussion on recent thread about people who are from NI being adverse to watching SI films, and various mentions there of how handsome Vikram is, I came to this thread to see his picture but unfortunately his is the only one (in the long posts w/gazillions of photos) not loading. I also looked at a thread for one of his films, linked from the other thread I was looking at, and did not see anything special about him there, but maybe it is the particular get-up he had in that film, or maybe he is one of those people that don't do as well in a still photo as in action. Anyway, Vikram fans, please post your favorite photo of him (I didn't see a stargazing thread for him and if I google him I might get the wrong Vikram, seeing as I just know the one name for him.) Try your best to convince me, thanks!

I don't think handsome is how I'd describe him. It's not that he's bad looking, but the word handsome seems too tame and clean cut for the sex appeal of Vikram. Unless you have been previously exposed to him on film, it might be hard to understand what to look for in the pictures. I really like Minai's description of why he's appealing from another thread.

At first I took one look at him and thought... eh, nah, too scruffy/hard/old looking.  But after being subjected to the Vikram brainwash (er... promotion), I'm slowly coming around  I really like the deeply masculine strength and energy he projects...if Allu Arjun and Vikram merged into one person, I would be one deliriously happy woman!

Googling just Vikram will get you his images. And we have a new stargazing thread. As I mentioned before, you should also check out the Dhool thread for a funny discussion on Vikram.

If you aren't a fan of South Indian masala or art films, Ravana is coming out next spring so you can look forward to that.

[krissh]

I don't think handsome is how I'd describe him. It's not that he's bad looking, but the word handsome seems too tame and clean cut for the sex appeal of Vikram. Unless you have been previously exposed to him on film, it might be hard to understand what to look for in the pictures. I really like Minai's description of why he's appealing from another thread.

Exactamundo. It's difficult to describe masculinity without it being mistaken for machismo, the line is finely drawn but Vikram manages quite nicely. I love his ability to convey volumes without saying a word. He understands the subtlety of body language, and tells you all you need to know about his character's feelings, just through his eyes.

His physique is that of someone who isn't simply into working out, just for the looks; it brings to mind the strength and endurance required of firemen, soldiers, lumberjacks, etc.

Plus, I am utterly smitten by his smile and laugh. His voice is awesome in the Kanthasamy songs that he did the playback for.

Addendum: I have to mention that he makes the most AWESOME transvestite, with his big ole' man hands, square jaw, and burly shoulders. As any self-respecting transvestite would understand, it is how one exudes femininity regardless of the attire or body structure. Yes, I learned that from a transvestite Vikram was more feminine in Kanthasamy, than I think I could ever be capable of, or get away with without tripping over my heels or skirt.

[MinaiMinai]

His physique is that of someone who isn't simply into working out, just for the looks; it brings to mind the strength and endurance required of firemen, soldiers, lumberjacks, etc.

That's such a good point.  I was noticing recently how I am not attracted to the "sculpted gym muscle" look that you see in commercials for home gyms and fitness centers and the like.  It's so artificial and I automatically assume the guy is completely full of himself.  With Vikram, however, his body gives the appearance of someone who is proud of their strength and really internalizes it- it's a part of him and appears crafted from real activity.  He looks like someone that could actually use his strength if called upon and get the job done! Unlike these pansy gym boys who would complain that they can't do X because it's not one of the movements they've carefully honed while staring in the mirror at their airconditioned gym.  Mmmm...Vikram very sexy. *Minai goes off to take a cold shower...*

Anywho, I came here because I was inspired by dustdevil's post over in the Athadu thread:

Not just Sunil-- it seems like there are 6-8 actors who have been in at least two thirds of the Telegu movies I've seen: Prakash Raj, Sonu Sood, Rahul Dev, Srinivasa Rao (that guy who always plays the politician in Munna, Athadu), Nasser (grandfather in Athadu, Pandu's father in Pokiri), Sudhu (Pardu's mother in Athadu, Shruthi's mother in Pokiri), Sayaji Shinde (assassinated politician in Athadu, police chief in Pokiri), Ajay (Pandu's brother in Pokiri, the politician's son in Athadu), and I think there are at least 4 others.  It sort of gives this impression that there's just this standing cast of actors that are in every Tollywood movie, and the only thing that changes out are the leads.

I've noticed these repeat characters in South films but haven't been good about putting names to faces.  Anyone want to help out?  This thread here is kind of ginormously massive and lists a lot of B/C Center actors/actresses (as Meenkaran categorized, which I think is great) which are overwhelming.  Can people list and provide pictures of those "actors" and "actresses" you keep seeing over and over in Tamil/Telugu/Malayalam/Kannada films?

From earlier on the thread, here's a few that I recognized:

Ali Telugu comedian.
 

Brahmanadam The top comedian in Andhara Pradesh.

Kovai Sarala As above. (Usually plays comedic characters in Telugu film.)

Raghubabu Telugu film.

Sunil The other top comedian in Andhara Pradesh.

Vadivelu One of the two top comedians in Tamil Nadu.  In Imsai arasan 23 pulikesi, he was the hero.

Venu Madhav
Celebrated ten years in Telugu film recently and was even hero in Hungama.

Nassar Seems to be everywhere in Tamil films.

In looking at the fimographies of the men above, they have been in TONS of films that have been discussed here.  For example, here are the character actors I saw in Allu Arjun's Parugu:

Sunil in Parugu


Ali cameo in Parugu


Anyone know who this is (front)?  I also saw him in Desamuduru


And I have to throw in a Prakash Raj pic.

[dustdevil]

Excellent idea!  I'm out of town for the next few days, but when I get back (and my order from KAD arrives), I'm all over this!

[krissh]

Vivek  -Tamil Comedian

[krissh]

WE NOW INTERRUPT THIS PROGRAM FOR A VERY IMPORTANT ANNOUNCEMENT........

Spoiler (hover to show)

GODDAMM IS HE FINE
   
Go ahead....try to concentrate on whatever you were doing before. Your Welcome!

[MinaiMinai]

Haha krissh!  I'm quite partial to these stills from Bheema.  Let's just say if I share anything more about what comes to mind when I view these gems this thread will burst into hot sweaty flames:    Perhaps I've already said too much...

[krissh]

Haha krissh!  I'm quite partial to these stills from Bheema.  Let's just say if I share anything more about what comes to mind when I view these gems this thread will burst into hot sweaty flames:    Perhaps I've already said too much...

Yes...yes you have. Now I know who my main competition* is for Vikram, and he was SMOKIN' in Bheema, and his acting was brilliant. Plus the ending was astounding, and despite my wretched sobbing (runny nose and all), I was thrilled when

Spoiler (hover to show)

Trisha was offed. Otherwise, Vikram was a mad genius and just blew me away (no pun intended) with the final death scene.

Oh my, oh my....I gots to get me to Chennai

 (*ahem..other than the other millions who knew about him before me, but I LOVE HIM MORE THAN THEM)

[S Hushpuppy]

WE NOW INTERRUPT THIS PROGRAM FOR A VERY IMPORTANT ANNOUNCEMENT........

Spoiler (hover to show)

GODDAMM IS HE FINE
   
Go ahead....try to concentrate on whatever you were doing before. Your Welcome!

Brace yourself krisssh, but I'm just not seeing it.  I haven't watched any of his films yet, I'm sure that is the problem.  Is Vikram like Mahesh in the sense that you have to see him on screen and then get totally swept off your feet?

So, convince me, why Vikram is a hottie, which movie should I watch first?

[krissh]

Hushpuppy,

You would hate him. He's a boring diva and I've read that he rarely bathes, is a sexist pig, and is mean to puppies. I think "Dhool" was the first movie that I saw him in, and he was rocking the dhoti and tank-top like no other. Really, I mean it! You won't like him, go back to Mahesh and Allu, they're much better! 

[MinaiMinai]

^Ha! Tryin' some good old reverse psychology to keep Mr. Vikram all to yourself eh? We're onto ya!

For an example of how Vikram transforms from a hirsuite "who the hell is this guy" to "oh my fg this guy is insanely HOT, strong, and he needs to show up on my doorstep RIGHT NOW" I would recommend "Enadhuyire" from Bheema: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h8FuT2LknZ0   I have to admit I have never watched a Vikram film either!  But this whole little exchange has reminded me I seriously need to get crackin! 

[S Hushpuppy]

gopichand  

This may come under the inexplicable crushes thread, but I am so into Gopichand at the moment.  He is so goofy/funny/charming/hot all at the same time.  

BTW, krissh, apparently there isn't enough Vikram to go around, so I am being warned away...  I'll try Dhool  (Don't you just love how the spellcheck wants to change the name of the movie to "Drool" in your case it may be appropriate!)

[MinaiMinai]

This may come under the inexplicable crushes thread, but I am so into Gopichand at the moment.  He is so goofy/funny/charming/hot all at the same time.  

Yay, I thought I was the only one who had a little crush on Gopichand!  I think he's quite sweet looking and really straddles the almost-hot line in a few pictures I've seen of him.  When we had the "best looking south indian actor poll" I pimped him a little bit, I think.  I have no idea if any of his films are good though- he doesn't seem to be a a-level star..

[krissh]

^Ha! Tryin' some good old reverse psychology to keep Mr. Vikram all to yourself eh? We're onto ya!

For an example of how Vikram transforms from a hirsuite "who the hell is this guy" to "oh my fg this guy is insanely HOT, strong, and he needs to show up on my doorstep RIGHT NOW" I would recommend "Enadhuyire" from Bheema: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h8FuT2LknZ0   I have to admit I have never watched a Vikram film either!  But this whole little exchange has reminded me I seriously need to get crackin! 

Who me? NEver!!!! Anyways, I was completely unattracted to men with facial hair until Prabhas and finally Vikram. Who looks fantastic with just the mouche, totally clean shaven, 5 o'clock shadow, or full beard. I don't even find back hair distasteful, anymore, thanks to Prabhas. It has become just another anatomical characteristic, like big ears or whatever.

I have almost all of Vikram's films, that he plays a main character in. I just bought Sethu, which was his breakout performance, and that is the movie that earned him the nickname, "Chiyaan". His characters are not always physically attractive, but he really is more interested in becoming the character, than looking good. He is a method actor, and researches his characters and really tries to develop them, long before shooting begins. These aspects make him infinitely more sexy and charismatic to me, than SRK or John Abraham, etc.; he takes risks and I admire that. There is lots more to babble on about, but the point is that I am the type who thinks men with character and intelligence are wayyyyyyyyy sexier than pretty boys or body-builders.

[S Hushpuppy]

Yay, I thought I was the only one who had a little crush on Gopichand!  I think he's quite sweet looking and really straddles the almost-hot line in a few pictures I've seen of him.  When we had the "best looking south indian actor poll" I pimped him a little bit, I think.  I have no idea if any of his films are good though- he doesn't seem to be a a-level star..

You have to see Ranam and Souryam (Shouryam)  They are great!  Watch them on Youtube like I did, and soon you too will be buying his movies from KAD.. I like his dancing too.

[S Hushpuppy]

Anyways, I was completely unattracted to men with facial hair until Prabhas and finally Vikram. Who looks fantastic with just the mouche, totally clean shaven, 5 o'clock shadow, or full beard. I don't even find back hair distasteful, anymore, thanks to Prabhas. It has become just another anatomical characteristic, like big ears or whatever.

My hubby has a beard, so I have always liked it, but since I was smitten by Prabhas, and Gopichand, even the furry chest and back doesn't bother me anymore.   I wonder why Mahesh doesn't wear the moustache?

I now have Bheema, Dhool and Kathaswamy coming down the pipe for download fetish that I have.  So I will get to see Vikram in all his glory.  I am even more eager since reading your comments about Vikram getting into his roles and developing his characters, "I think they call it 'acting'!" **sigh**  It's a sad day when a really good actor gets noticed because he actually does his job.  It's pathetic what passes for acting in an average movie these days.  (Think Keanu  Reeves, whose voice modulation doesn't change no matter what role he plays.)

For the record - I don't like Allu Arjun or think he's hot!  ****ducks for cover from the flying rocks****

[dustdevil]

Hee, we need a "you know you are obsessed by South Indian superstars when..." thread.

A couple more of the supporting casts that always show up:

Kota Srinivasa Rao, aka "that guy who always plays corrupt politicians:

(I think he's already posted, but since we're on the topic of people who are in every movie...)

Ajay, who always plays Mahesh or Prabhas' best buddy, usually named "Ajay":



And this guy, who I just saw in Sainikudu, has been in a bunch of other movies, any thoughts on his name?

[MinaiMinai]

For the record - I don't like Allu Arjun or think he's hot!  ****ducks for cover from the flying rocks****

Hehe- that's okay!  No rock flinging coming from my direction, lol!  I'm not sure about ApunBindaas though...   Different strokes for different folks.

[krissh]

I've been trying to see what Allu has, he's cute, but he reminds me of a hip-hop dancer that one could find in any MTV video. The final scene in "Happy" showed that he had promise, but will the industry let him develop that, or just turn him into another fight and dance by the numbers star? His fight scenes were so over-choreographed, that I didn't get any sense that there was anger or passion or a rock in his shoe.

[jlhs]

That's Ravi. He's in Classmates and plays one of Siddhu's friends in Bommarillu.

[S Hushpuppy]

Hehe- that's okay!  No rock flinging coming from my direction, lol!  I'm not sure about ApunBindaas though...   Different strokes for different folks.

Absolutely!  I'm sure that Gopichand is not everyone's cup of tea, though I really really like him.  However, there is one fact that should be UNIVERSAL - Prabhas is hot!