This Famous Cinematographer-actor Shared Screen Space With Thalapathy Vijay Before His Debut

Thalapathy Vijay gained widespread acceptance from fans following his role in the film Poove Unakkaga. In the movie, Vijay shoots for the song Machinichi Varra Neram and actor Murali was slated to perform in the song. Additionally, there was someone else also standing alongside Vijay during the shoot. He is none other than famous cinematographer and actor Ilavarasu. Initially gaining recognition for his cinematography, he transitioned to acting and gained prominence in roles in films by directors such as Bharathiraja and Cheran. With over 160 films, he is primarily noted for his supporting and comedic characters in Tamil cinema.

Ilavarasu initially intended to debut in the unreleased Tamil film Top Tucker, but instead, he made his first appearance in Oru Kaidhiyin Diary in 1984. Although there’s a discrepancy, another account suggests his earliest role was a minor one in Bharathiraja’s 1987 movie Vedham Pudhithu.

Originally named Ilavarasan, he was affectionately called Ilavarasu by his cinema peers, a name that has stuck with him to this day. He gained popularity as a cinematographer in 1996 with the film Panchalankurichi, starring Prabhu and Madhubala. The following year, he worked on another Prabhu movie titled Periya Thambi, directed by Chithra Lakshmanan, who is now a renowned producer and character artist. In 1998, Ilavarasu served as the cinematographer for two films, Iniyavalae and Ninaithen Vandhai. His work in these films earned him the Best Cinematographer award in 1999.

Ilavarasu’s award-winning movies include Manam Virumbudhae Unnai and Veeranadai. Additionally, he has worked as a cinematographer on films like Aezhayin Sirippil and Sabash, bringing his total cinematography credits to 13 movies. His acting journey began with Bharathiraja’s film Mudhal Mariyadhai, where he portrayed the role of a photographer. Initially assisting stills Ravi and later joining as an assistant to B. Kannan, a renowned cinematographer often associated with Bharathiraja’s films, Ilavarasu gradually transitioned into acting. His breakthrough came with a significant role in Cheran’s Porkalam, which propelled him into the spotlight as a recognized actor. While initially offered villainous characters, he later shifted his focus to character roles.