Phoenix director, debutant Anl Arasu has responded to critics trolling his film's star Surya Sethupathi. Speaking at a recent press event for the film, the choreographer-turned-director said that those who troll Surya, Vijay Sethupathi's son, should realise that it affects not just the actor but also the rest of the cast. The filmmaker reminded the audience that the film marks his directorial debut and suggested that the internet vitriol affects "28 young actors" in it, besides Surya.

Calling it "technically sound" and acclaimed, the filmmaker implied that Phoenix is no launch vehicle for Surya Sethupathi as a lead actor. He mentioned actor Rohith, a gold medal winner in MMA (mixed martial arts) at the Asia level, as "a remarkable champion".

Anl Arasu revealed that he did not write the screenplay specifically for Surya and pleaded to the audience not to consider it a film meant solely for the starkid.

Why Are the Fans Trolling Surya Sethupathi?

The audience is trolling Surya for two main reasons. He was spotted chewing bubblegum during the film's promotions, causing fans to consider him arrogant. Vijay Sethupathi subsequently apologised for his son's behaviour, terming it "unintentional".

Further, some netizens perceive Surya's interactions and conduct at the film's promotional events as conveying a lack of care for his profession, further intensifying the online trolling he faces. Despite the backlash, Surya has defended being labelled a "nepo kid," stating it acknowledges his father's legacy. He emphasised his need to work even harder than his father, but his remarks have not entirely defused the criticism.