Arun Vijay's #AV38 with director Muthaiya based on true incident
Synopsis
Arun Vijay's next film #AV38 isn't just another action entertainer — it's grounded in a real incident, set across the Tirunelveli–Thoothukudi belt, and demands the actor pull off two distinct looks. With 25 days already in the can and director Muthaiya at the helm, this one has the makings of a rural drama with genuine emotional stakes.
Key Takeaways
Arun Vijay confirmed that #AV38 , directed by Muthaiya , is based on a real-life incident .
The film has completed approximately 25 days of shooting, with period portions already wrapped.
Arun Vijay will sport two looks — a period look and a younger, leaner present-day look.
The story revolves around a young man's fight to revive his family's ancestral profession against elders' wishes.
Filming is underway in the Tirunelveli–Thoothukudi belt of Tamil Nadu.
The film is described as a family entertainer blending action, drama, and sentiment.
Actor Arun Vijay has revealed that his upcoming Tamil film #AV38, directed by Muthaiya, is rooted in a real-life incident — and that the Tirunelveli-set production is already 25 days into its shoot. The actor, currently in an intensive training phase to achieve a lean, toned physique for the role, confirmed the film will blend action, family drama, and period elements.
Two Looks, One Film
Arun Vijay disclosed that he will be seen in two distinct looks in the film. 'I sport a period look and then I also sport a much younger look for which I need to have a toned body that looks fit and lean. Therefore, I am looking to shed weight at the moment,' the actor said. The dual-look requirement has driven him into a rigorous gym regimen, which he shared publicly on his Instagram page with the caption: 'All pumped up for the ongoing power packed action schedule for #AV38 !! #directormuthaiya #thirunalveli.'
Story and Shooting Update
The film, being shot primarily across the Tirunelveli–Thoothukudi belt, has completed its period portions. The unit is now filming the present-day segments. According to Arun Vijay, the narrative centres on a passionate young man's determination to revive his family's ancestral profession despite resistance from his elders — a conflict-driven arc with strong emotional undertones.
What to Expect
Arun Vijay described #AV38 as a wholesome entertainer designed for all age groups, with the film being 'high on family sentiment, action and drama.' The true-incident angle adds an authenticity layer that director Muthaiya — known for his rural action dramas — is well-placed to handle. Notably, this marks another collaboration in Muthaiya's signature Tirunelveli-region storytelling tradition.
Fan and Industry Buzz
The actor's gym update quickly drew attention from fans and film followers, with the hashtag #AV38 gaining traction online. The combination of a real-life premise, a dual-look performance, and Muthaiya's directorial stamp has generated early anticipation for the project. A release timeline has not yet been announced.
Point of View
Rural-action narratives — and anchoring #AV38 in a real incident is a smart credibility play in a crowded market. What stands out is the dual-timeline structure: period and present-day tracks demand range from Arun Vijay beyond his usual action persona. The Tirunelveli setting is also deliberate — it signals a film pitched at the mass Tamil audience outside Chennai multiplexes, where Muthaiya's films consistently overperform. The absence of a release date, however, suggests the project is still in mid-production, and the real test will be how faithfully the 'true incident' claim is woven into the narrative rather than used as a marketing hook.
NationPress
6 Jul 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Arun Vijay's film #AV38 about?
#AV38 is a Tamil film directed by Muthaiya, based on a true incident. It follows a passionate young man's efforts to take up his family's ancestral profession against the wishes of his elders, blending action, family drama, and sentiment.
Where is #AV38 being filmed?
The film is being shot primarily in the Tirunelveli–Thoothukudi belt of Tamil Nadu. Period portions have already been completed, and the unit is currently filming present-day sequences.
How many looks does Arun Vijay sport in #AV38?
Arun Vijay will appear in two looks — a period look and a younger, leaner present-day look. He is currently undergoing an intensive gym regimen to achieve the toned physique required for the latter.
How much of #AV38 has been shot so far?
According to Arun Vijay, approximately 25 days of filming have been completed as of the latest update, with the period portions wrapped and present-day shooting ongoing.
Who is directing #AV38 and what is his style?
#AV38 is directed by Muthaiya, known for rural action dramas set in Tamil Nadu's southern districts. The Tirunelveli setting and true-incident premise align closely with his signature storytelling style.
