Vaalee (1999 film)

Vaalee is a 1999 Indian Tamil-language romantic psychological thriller film written and directed by S. J. Suryah in his directorial debut. The film stars Ajith Kumar in the main dual lead role with Simran and Jyothika (in her Tamil debut). Vivek, Rajeev, Pandu and Sujitha appear in supporting roles. A modern-day adaptation of the story of Vali from the Ramayana, it revolves around identical twins Shiva and Deva, the latter being deaf-mute. He lusts for Shiva's love interest Priya, an obsession that continues even after their marriage.

Suryah completed the script for Vaalee in 60 days, and the project was picked up for production by S. S. Chakravarthy of NIC Arts. It is Ajith's first film to feature him in dual roles.The cinematography was by Jeeva, the soundtrack by Deva, the lyrics by Vairamuthu, and the editing was done by the duo B. Lenin and V. T. Vijayan.

Vaalee was released on 1 May 1999 to positive reviews. The film became a commercial success, and a major breakthrough for Ajith, Simran and Jyothika. Ajith won the Filmfare Award for Best Actor – Tamil and Jyothika won Best Female Debut – South at the same ceremony. The film was remade in Kannada under the same title in 2001.