Many films have been made on the fisher folk in Kerala. The biggest hit of them is Chemmen.

Now Mohanlal plays the lead role in a movie titled Mahasamudram, which deals in detail about the travails of fishermen. The movie is being directed by a debutant S Janardanan.

According to the director, 'this is the first film in Mohanlal's career where he is donning the role of a fisherman. So, he is taking special interest in making it a success.'

Mahasamudram tells the story of relationships in the coastal villages.

Though this is his first film, Dr Janardanan has been involved with theatre right from his college days. He earned a doctorate in Indian theatre in 1995. He has directed several popular television serials.

Lyrics penned by Kaithapram are set to music by M. Jayachandran. The film is slated for release in January.