Having won the National award for Naan Kadavul, Bala returned to the fray with Avan Ivan, which he promised would tickle the funny bone and not stimulate the tear ducts as is his usual wont. This in addition to Vishal’s cross – dressing, squint – eyed shtick created a huge buzz of expectation that proved instrumental in providing the film with a big opening.

Trade talk: Critics may not have loved the film per se but Vishal in his new avatar proved to be a huge draw.

Public opinion: The performances by Arya and especially Vishal were hugely appreciated.