Cheran's critically acclaimed drama Autograph is all set for a re-release on November 14, 21 years after it originally hit theatres. Ahead of its premiere, the cast and crew met for a reunion on Thursday to recall nostalgic memories associated with the film and what the re-release means to them. "People think directors re-release once famous films just to make some quick bucks, but a lot of preparation went into my film again to make it relevant to Gen Z," said Cheran, talking about the timing of the re-release.
The noted veteran director said he has brought about multiple changes to this version including trimming its runtime. "I have reduced it by about 15 minutes. Then, I have colour corrected it to appeal to today's audience. We brought in Dolby Atmos," he added, while noting that he had also tweaked the music of the film.
Written, directed, and headlined by Cheran, Autograph follows Senthil Kumar, an advertising executive who embarks on a nostalgic train journey to invite friends and family to his wedding. Along the way, memories of his past loves resurface, taking him and the audience through a poignant exploration of love, loss, and time.
Cheran highlighted he wanted the audience to experience the film in an enhanced way. "So, I don't intend to cheat the audience anywhere. If I just put out the film as it is, it will run. I could take the money and go. I could think, ‘If Rs 10 lakh comes, it's profit.' But instead, I have spent Rs 50 lakh on the film again and I have tried to give you a film that will enhance your experience," said the director.
The film’s ensemble cast features Gopika, Sneha, Mallika, and Kaniha, each portraying a defining chapter in Senthil’s life. Autograph struck a universal chord upon release and went on to become both a critical and commercial success.
Interestingly, Cheran decided to play the lead after after all the successful ones he approached, like Vikram, Vijay, Prabhu Deva and Arvind Swami, turned down to star in his film.
The four-time National Film Award winner stated that he also wanted to understand the pulse of the current generation as they watch the film. "That is why I make films, anyway — to connect with the society, inspire it, let it inspire me. If I had made films with only a commercial motive, I would have disappeared long ago. If my film takes someone by the hand and leads them to a safe shore, that is my victory," he said.
Produced by Dream Theatres, Autograph featured cinematography by Ravi Varman, Vijay Milton, Dwarakanath, and Shanky Mahendran, with editing by S Sathesh and J N Harsha. Bharadwaj composed the memorable songs while Pa Vijay wrote the lyrics.