The success of Pudupettai, despite some unkind reviews, shows that Selvaraghavan is a brand that sells, especially to the young. He can be described as the most saleable young director in the Tamil industry today. The kind of opening the film received -- the biggest in recent times -- has amazed everyone. And it was only the Selvaraghavan name that drew audiences to theatres.

However, women who loved his earlier two films, Kadal Kondein and 7 G Rainbow Colony, have been avoiding the film because of the overdose of violence.

A nervous Selvaraghavan had told rediff.com that, if Pudupettai failed, he would go to the Himalayas. He doesn't have to look at that destination anymore.

Packed houses for Pokiri

One film creating history in Telugu is Mahesh Babu [Images]'s Pokiri, directed by Puri Jagannadh. Despite loads of violence and an A certificate, it has been running to packed houses even a month after its release, and is a hit in all A, B and C centres.

Sporting a new, rugged look, 'Prince' Mahesh Babu has stolen the show. He carries the film on his shoulders, consolidating his winning streak after last year's Athadu. Another highlight of the film is its well-choreographed action sequences (if you can digest the violence), which give it a slick look.

Pokiri has created history not only in Andhra Pradesh but in Tamil Nadu too. And, even while it is drawing crowds in Chennai, young superstar Vijay has announced a Tamil remake. He always goes for remakes, incidentally, possibly because he likes playing it safe. Directing him will be Prabhu Deva [Images], with Asin taking on the role successfully portrayed by Ileana in the Telugu version.

Anirudhdh riding high

One film that Kannada actor Anirudhdh is looking forward to is Neenello Naanello, a remake of the most talked about Telugu film Nuvvasthaanante Nenvoddantaana. Rakshitha plays the role originally handed by Trisha [Images]. Dr Vishnuvardhan, Anirudhdh's father-in-law, also plays an important role.

Meanwhile, Anirudhdh has just completed work for a Hindi film directed by Nagesh Kukunoor, where he has been paired opposite Bollywood starlet Ayesha Takia [Images].

Sudeep in Tirupathi

Expectations are high on Sudeep's next release Tirupathi, where the actor plays a police officer for the first time. His first directorial venture, My Autograph, recently completed 100 days.

Speaking about his role, the actor says, "As I am playing a police officer for the first time, I hope I will be as lucky as other top heroes who struck gold with similar roles." Mumbai-based model cum actress Pooja Kanwal, who made her debut in the Kannada film 7'O Clock, is the heroine here.

Inputs from Shobha Warrier, Radhika Rajamani and R G Vijayasarathy