When a film returns nearly a decade after its predecessor, the easiest expectation is to look for familiar characters, unfinished arcs and a continuation of the story audiences already know. The title Meesaya Murukku 2 naturally invites that expectation, especially since the 2017 film was closely tied to Hiphop Tamizha Aadhi’s own journey from an engineering student to an independent musician.

But the second instalment appears to be taking the franchise in a different direction. While the first film drew extensively from Aadhi’s life, the new film uses music as a larger entry point, bringing together stories of musicians, their ambitions and the struggles that come with choosing music as a profession. The film also unfolds across multiple time periods, with Aadhi appearing in two different roles.

Speaking at a recent press meet, Aadhi clarified that Meesaya Murukku 2 is not a direct continuation of the first film’s story. “The first part of Meesaya Murukku was based on my own life. But Meesaya Murukku 2 is the story of a musician. It is a film about music,” he said. He further described the film as “a much broader and more universal story” about musicians and their lives.

The distinction is interesting considering the origins of the franchise. Meesaya Murukku was a semi-autobiographical coming-of-age drama that fictionalised Aadhi’s early years and his journey towards establishing himself as an independent musician. The sequel, however, expands that personal experience into a wider story about people who make a living through music.

The new film also introduces a different family dynamic. In the first instalment, the late Vivek played Aadhi’s father. Aadhi has said that nobody can replace Vivek, but the new story features another important father character, played by choreographer Baba Bhaskar. He added that the role would allow audiences to see another side of Baba Bhaskar as an actor.

With Chaithra J Achar, Ketika Sharma, Ramya Ranganathan, Nassar, Karunas, Aadukalam Naren and Harshath Khan in the cast, Meesaya Murukku 2 is directed by Aadhi, who has also handled the music and lyrics. Produced by Khushbu Sundar and ACS Arun Kumar, the film is scheduled to hit theatres on September 25.