National award winning director Bala announced his first full-fledged comedy entertainer Avan Ivan. This is the first time director Bala, who is famous for his serious and dark subjects, is trying his hand at comedy. The film narrates the story of two siblings; earlier, real life brothers Suriya-Karthi and Jiiva-Ramesh were considered for the two main leads. But finally Arya and Vishal were chosen!

Both Arya and Vishal have tonsured their heads for this film. The actors also avoided public appearance to keep their looks secret. Reportedly Vishal plays the role of a transgender in the film, which is expected to elevate him to the next level in acting.

Vishal recently spoke about the reason behind introducing him as a squint-eyed character in the movie. After observing Vishal's initial acting, director Bala complained about his urban mannerisms and body language, which were unsuitable for the character.

Bala also wanted Vishal's character to appear unattractive and planned to introduce a squint eye. Vishal added that the role became very popular after the promotional materials of the movie were released. Though Vishal takes pride in his role, he said that he had undergone great pains to imitate a squint eye, which left him with intense eye pain and headaches after the filming. The film is expected to grace theatres on May 20, 2011.