Contrasting with the soft romantic roles played in his first two films, Shanthnu Bhagyaraj is all set for a image makeover. For the first time, the actor will play a Madurai-based don, a typical mass action hero, in Aayiram Vilakku directed by Hosimin of February 14 fame. In this film, Sathyaraj plays an aging gangster who meets an ordinary coolie (Shanthnu) and trains him to be the next big gang lord to take revenge on his enemies. The film is likely to hit screens on September 23.

"I play a character that is in total contrast to my real self. Initially, I was very nervous to work with Sathyaraj sir. He plays a powerful don whose character changes after he meets me. But believe me, he was so down-to-earth from day one and made me feel so comfortable," Shanthnu said.