Chennai, Dec 23 (NationPress) The team behind director Vetrimaaran's much-anticipated action thriller 'Arasan', starring actor Silambarasan, popularly known as Simbu, has successfully concluded the first shooting schedule of the film.

While the film's producers have yet to make an official announcement regarding the completion of this schedule, insiders have confirmed that the initial phase, which was shot in Kovilpatti, has now wrapped up.

A source mentioned, "The first schedule concluded on December 21. The next phase is expected to commence in the first week of January next year."

Interestingly, just a day prior, a behind-the-scenes (BTS) video titled 'Behind the Rise of Arasan' was released by the makers.

Producer Kalaipuli S Thanu, whose banner V Creations is behind the film, shared on his X timeline, "The rise begins! Behind The Rise of #Arasan is out now!" along with a link to the BTS video.

The BTS footage provided fans with a sneak peek of Simbu's transformation for his character in the film. It also gave insights into how director Vetrimaaran operated on set, featuring Simbu conversing with actor Samuthirakani. The clips appeared to have been filmed while the crew was working on a promotional video that was subsequently unveiled.

Anticipation for this film has skyrocketed for numerous reasons. Firstly, this marks the first collaboration between Simbu and the renowned director Vetrimaaran. Additionally, the film is being produced by one of Tamil cinema's most prominent producers, Kalaipuli S Thanu. Adding to the buzz, the filmmakers recently revealed that actor Vijay Sethupathi has joined the cast.

A promotional teaser released earlier this year starts on a light-hearted note, featuring director Nelson in a cameo.

Simbu informs director Nelson that what he is about to share is entirely factual. The perpetrators, victims, names, and locations are authentic. However, he insists that Nelson should not present it as it is and suggests including a disclaimer in the film. He expresses concern that if the details are revealed, not just "innocents" like him could face repercussions, but also numerous lawyers, politicians, law enforcement officials, and judges.

As Simbu articulates this, the makers of 'Arasan' release a disclaimer.

He advises Nelson that including a disclaimer would shield them from questioning, even if the events depicted are true. He asserts that his case is currently awaiting a hearing and that he would return to elaborate further.

As he approaches the courtroom, he is guided by his lawyer. Upon taking the stand, the judge informs him that he has been charged with committing three murders in one night and asks if he pleads guilty. Simbu responds that he is innocent of the murders. However, subsequent scenes depict him as the one responsible for the brutal killings.

The teaser clearly indicates that this will unveil an untold narrative from the realm of 'Vada Chennai'. The film's title, 'Arasan', was only recently confirmed by the producers.

Vetrimaran's film featuring Simbu will include prominent actors Andrea Jeremiah, Vijay Sethupathi, Samuthirakani, and Kishore in significant roles, with music composed by Anirudh.

It is worth noting that Vetrimaran recently dispelled rumors regarding a sequel to his highly anticipated film 'Vada Chennai'. He clarified that while his next project, 'Arasan', will feature Simbu, it is not intended to be 'Vada Chennai 2', despite speculation in various media outlets. He emphasized that the story of 'Arasan' will be set within the universe of 'Vada Chennai'.

mkr/