As an adult, his first few films did not set the box office on fire, but his last release Manmadhan (based on a story by Simbu himself) was both critically and commercially appreciated.
Manmadhan starred Jyotika and Sindhu Dhulani. It also included Mandira Bedi in a cameo, and Yana Gupta in an item number.
Rumour has it that Simbu ghost-directed the film. But in his next, Vallavan, he helms the film on record. The movie sees him opposite three women -- Sandhya (of Kadhal fame), Nayanthara and Reema Sen.
The film has already got a lot of attention with its huge hoardings in Chennai, in which Simbu is seen biting Nayanthara's lips. Objections from citizens led to police pulling down the hoardings.
Vallavan depicts three stages in the protagonist's life with the three women playing major roles in each stage. As an adolescent, Sandhya plays his heroine first. Then comes Nayanthara and, finally, Reema Sen.
Text: Shobha Warrier