On Thursday, we reported that Kichcha Sudeep, who has previously done four films in Tamil, joined the cast of Under 18. The film, helmed by Karthik Perumalsami, is headlined by Vikranth and Aishwarya Rajesh. As per a source, we also reported that Sudeep will be seen in an important cameo role in the film.
On Friday, Under 18 was officially launched with a pooja ceremony in Chennai. Apart from the lead cast and crew, the event was also graced by actors Sarath Kumar, Radikaa Sarathkumar and Sri Priya. At the event, Vikranth revealed minor details about Sudeep's role, while expressing his gratitude to him for taking up the project.
He said, "Special thanks to Sudeep anna as well. One day, Karthik sir said there was an important character in the second half, and it would be superb if someone like Sudeep sir played it. So we thought we could at least try asking Sudeep sir. The moment we asked him, he said, “I’m doing this for you and for this story. I don’t need anything else.” And just like that, he joined the film. So I would like to thank him as well at this moment."
Under 18 will mark the directorial debut of Karthik. Details about the film's plot, genre, extended cast and release date are yet to be revealed by the makers. The previously unveiled first-look poster featured silhouettes of children under a board that reads 'Government Observation Home for Boys and Girls'. Another label reads, "Contact for free legal help."
As per the official press note, "Under 18 will present the brutal face of the crime world and the emotional turmoil of a family affected by it, unfolding as an intense emotional drama." As per reports, the filmmaker, an erstwhile assistant of Vetri Maaran, has conducted in-depth research into lesser-known crime backgrounds in Tamil Nadu and is blending social realism with strong family emotions.
Music composer Sam CS and director of photography Velraj R form the core technical team of Under 18. It is produced by B Jagadish under the SR Productions banner. Key portions of the film are planned to be shot in Hosur, Chengalpattu and Chennai.