Stun Siva

Last updated

Stun Siva
Stun siva.jpg
Born
Siva Kumar
Occupations
  • Action director
  • actor
Years active1989-present
Children2

V. Sivakumar, better known by his professional name Stun Siva, is an Indian stunt choreographer notable for his work in the South Indian film industry. Born in Chennai, Sivakumar developed an early interest in the Vietnamese martial art of Vovinam, which later influenced his approach to cinematic stunts. He began his career as a motorbike mechanic before transitioning to the film industry, where he started as a stunt fighter and assistant to stunt masters including Kanal Kannan and Rambo Rajkumar, later he became as a stunt master and actor. [1] [2] Stunt professionals such as Anal Arasu, K. Ganesh Kumar, Silva, Besant Ravi, Anbariv, and Rajendran have collaborated with him, serving as fighters and assistants.

Contents

Sivakumar has collaborated with prominent actors such as Rajinikanth, Kamal Haasan, Vijay, and Aamir Khan. His notable works include films like "Akhanda", "Vettaiyadu Vilaiyadu", and "Jailer [3] ". His dedication to realism and safety in stunt choreography has earned him acclaim within the industry.

In addition to his own achievements, Sivakumar's legacy in the industry is also reflected in the careers of his sons, Kevin and Steven, who have pursued careers as stunt directors. His son Kevin Kumar made his debut as stunt coordinator with Adanga Maru . [4]

Early life and education

Sivakumar completed his education up to the SSLC level and pursued specialized training in Martial Arts. Under the mentorship of Master Thun and Nyhau, he mastered the Vietnamese Martial Art of Vovinam. This expertise set him apart in the stunt world, making him renowned for crafting realistic and dynamic fight sequences.

Starting his career as a motorbike mechanic, Siva expanded his skills to include bike jumps, car chases, and the technique of overturning vehicles.

In the initial stages of his career, Siva served as an assistant to notable stunt choreographers such as Kanal Kannan and Rambo Rajkumar. [1] [2] Although he contributed to over 100 projects in this capacity, many of his contributions went uncredited. However, these experiences played a pivotal role in honing his skills in stunt choreography.

Contributions to Indian Cinema

Association With Rajinikanth

In 1981, a young Siva had the opportunity to observe the filming of 'Garjanai' featuring Rajnikanth. Although he wasn't professionally involved at the time, the experience deepened his respect for the actor.

Years later, Siva's professional trajectory intersected with Rajinikanth's when he took on the role of "Stunt Director" for the film 'Jailer [5] '. Produced by Sun Pictures and directed by Nelson, "Jailer" starred Rajnikanth, Shivaraj Kumar, and Mohanlal. The movie is known for Nelson's distinct combination of action and dark humor.

For Siva, working with Rajinikanth was a significant milestone, especially considering his past roles as a stuntman in Rajinikanth's films such as "Mannan,” ”Pandian," "Ejaman," and "Muthu."

While the film's action was choreographed by Kevin and Steven, Siva was responsible for the impactful fight sequences that contributed to the film's acclaim.

Performing with Kamal Haasan

In Gautham Menon's film "Vettaiyadu Vilaiyadu," Siva demonstrated his diverse skills both as a stunt choreographer and an actor. [6] The film features several action sequences, including notable bike and car chases, which bear testament to his expertise in choreography.

Additionally, Siva took on the role of “Royapuram Mani” in the film, playing an antagonist in the introductory scene, showcasing his acting capabilities.

It's noteworthy that the introduction scene of "Vettaiyadu Vilaiyadu" featuring Kamal Haasan is often highlighted in online searches related to the actor's best introductory scenes.

Collaborations with Vijay

Stun Siva began his professional association with Vijay as a stuntman for the film "Deva." Over the years, their collaboration expanded to include films such as "Love Today, [7] " "Once More," "Kannukul Nilavu," “Kadhaluku Mariyathai,” and “Kaavalan,” [8] with Siva serving as the stunt director.

In "Kadhalaku Mariyathai," their combined efforts were evident in a high-risk climax scene, which was successfully completed in a single take. Their work in "Kaavalan" emphasized realism, from high-speed driving sequences without the use of safety measures to an impromptu staircase roll scene.

Reflecting on their time working on "Deva," a notable fight sequence [9] that took several days to film stands out as a testament to their commitment and professionalism.

In addition to his choreography, Siva's versatility was on display in "Chandralekha." He also portrayed the antagonist, Karikaalaan, in the film "Theri."

Working with Director Bala

Stun Siva's association with the acclaimed director Bala commenced with the film “Sethu,” [10] which featured Vikram in the lead role. The film was notable for its realistic portrayal of stunts, which received significant attention and praise.

Their collaborative efforts persisted with 'Nandha', [11] in which Suriya played the lead role. The film played a pivotal role in shaping Suriya's image as an action hero and is considered a landmark in his filmography.

Siva collaborated with Bala once more for 'Pithamagan', [10] a film that starred both Vikram and Suriya. Additionally, Siva choreographed an action sequence in the film “Naan Kadavul” which had Arya in the lead. His dedication to realism was evident in 'Pithamagan', where he employed actual flesh to produce sound effects, underscoring his commitment to authenticity.

Foraying into Telugu Cinema

In the realm of Telugu cinema, "Akhanda," [12] featuring Nandamuri Balakrishna, stands as a testament to Stun Siva's expertise in choreographing action sequences. The film's portrayal of the 'Aghori' character, particularly the action sequences associated with this role, was well-received by audiences.

One of the film's notable sequences is a water-based action scene, which involves a chase involving the lead actress and her daughter. This scene, set within a cave and culminating in the film's climax, was filmed in a natural river stream. Despite the presence of potential hazards like insects and snakes, the crew prioritized safety while capturing the raw essence of the scene.

Stun Siva's sons, Kevin and Steven, contributed significantly to the film's choreography, particularly in designing the fight scenes. [13] One innovative element introduced by Kevin was the incorporation of a character rotating a wheel during a combat sequence, which added a unique visual element to the film.

"Akhanda" achieved significant success at the box office, and its impact extended beyond Indian shores. The New York Times highlighted the film's innovative stunts and acknowledged Boyapaati Sreenu's contributions, underscoring the movie's influence on international cinematic action choreography.

He along with Kevin and Steven [14] are responsible for choreographing the film's action sequences for Skanda].

Debut in Hindi Cinema

Stun Siva made his mark in Bollywood with films such as 'Ghajini', 'Gabbar is Back', [15] and 'Zanjeer'. His expertise in seamlessly weaving action sequences into the storyline quickly established him as a notable figure in the Hindi film industry. "Ghajini," in particular, stood out both critically and commercially. The film achieved significant box office success, with collections reportedly surpassing 400 crores. Notably, certain sequences, including the house fight scene, were especially well-received, contributing to the film's recognition at the IIFA Awards in 2008.

Filmography

As action director

As actor

Awards and nominations

Won
Nominated

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References

  1. 1 2 "Arindhathum Ariyathathum - With Stunt Master Kanal Kannan". Youtube. 5 January 2014. Archived from the original on 11 April 2023. Retrieved 4 March 2020.
  2. 1 2 "கோலிவுட்டிலிருந்து ஹாலிவுட் போகும் Thalapathy Vijayன் Stunt Director - Stun Siva Exclusive Interview". Youtube. 15 January 2020. Retrieved 4 March 2020.
  3. ↑ "Leading action choreographer Stun Siva joins Rajinikanth's Jailer, reveals a picture from location". 22 August 2022.
  4. ↑ "Stun Siva's son gets his own fight sequence". Times of India. 28 July 2018. Archived from the original on 1 November 2018. Retrieved 31 October 2018.
  5. ↑ "Stun Siva Master About Rajinikanth and Jailer". 10 August 2023.
  6. ↑ "STORY BEHIND VETTAIYADU VILAYADU MASS OPENING SCENE FT. KAMAL | STUN SIVA REVEALS | GVM". 20 June 2018.
  7. ↑ "Love Today படத்துக்கு Vijay Sir தான் Refer பண்ணாங்க - Stun Siva". 21 June 2023.
  8. ↑ "Vijay sir நிறைய வாய்ப்பு கொடுத்தாங்க,Stun Siva". 21 June 2023.
  9. ↑ "Vijay Risk எடுத்தாரு , Thalapathy ,Stun Siva". 20 June 2023.
  10. 1 2 "BALA SIR கூட சேதுவும், பிதாமகனும் FIGHT கம்போஸ் பண்ண | Stun Shiva". 20 July 2023.
  11. ↑ "இன்னைக்கும் இது ட்ரெண்ட் செட்டர்தான் - Stun Siva | Nandha | Suriya". 19 August 2023.
  12. ↑ "Stun Shiva: The man behind action scenes of the super hit film 'Akhanda'". 15 December 2021.
  13. ↑ "Fight Master Stunt Shiva about Akhanda Action Sequences | Balakrishna | Pragya Jaiswal | Srikanth". 5 December 2021.
  14. ↑ "Fight Master Stun Siva Speech @ SKANDA Pre-Release Thunder | Nandamuri Balakrishna | Ram Pothineni". 26 August 2023.
  15. ↑ "Our heroes are no lessthan Tom Cruise: Stun Siva". 22 August 2018.
  16. ↑ "Tamil Nadu announces film awards for three years". indiaglitz.com. Archived from the original on 24 October 2004. Retrieved 19 October 2009.
  17. ↑ "Ananda Vikatan Cinema Awards 2020: Asuran, Super Deluxe, Peranbu Bag The Top Honours!". Filmi Beat. 9 January 2020. Archived from the original on 3 March 2020. Retrieved 3 March 2020.
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