With films close to reality almost becoming a trend in Tamil cinema, following the suit of a long list of directors is Ilayakavi, who has started working for his maiden venture ‘Porulu’, starring newcomers in lead roles.

Since the story is set in the backdrop of Chennai slums, the director and his producer (Ezhumalai who also performs the lead role), have opted to shoot the movie at real slums in the city. “Because we want nothing but reality on screen,” the filmmaker says.

He adds: “Theepetti Ganesh of ‘Renigunta’ fame is performing a pivotal character. One of the important highlights of this film is music composer Soundaryan, who is making his comeback after a long sabbatical.”

“The talented musician had grabbed everyone's attention during the early 1990s and one of his best works includes K S Ravikumar's ‘Cheran Pandian’. I am happy that he is marking his reentry with my movie,” Ilayakavi says.

“Tamil cinema has changed to a great extent. These are the times when newcomers are being encouraged a lot and fresh talents making it big. I am hopeful that ‘Porulu’ will strike a right chord,” he concludes.