Cheran asks people not to connect and compare '96 with his film Autograph

Director Prem Kumar's '96, which has been receiving rave reviews and which has come in for widespread appreciation from a large crosssection of the public, has had a small section of people commenting that the story of the film was a lot like director Cheran's 2004 blockbuster, Autograph.

Now, director Cheran himself has come out in support of the film and trashed opinions that suggested that the story of '96 was more or less like that of the story of Autograph.

Cheran said, "'96 happens to be one of the most important films of Tamil cinema. Please do not connect '96 with my film Autograph. Autograph was about memories of love and loved ones. '96 is about two individuals in love who meet and exchange their feelings at a point in life when they know that the life they loved and craved for is lost. My hearty wishes to director Premkumar."

'96 review: A throwback to a simpler time, of gentler men and true love

"Vijay Sethupathi and Trisha have qualified themselves for the important awards of this year by showcasing those gentle emotions beautifully. Director Prem, who has managed to string the scenes beautifully with just two artistes, will go on to shine as one of the finest directors. Movies like '96 make Tamil cinema hold its head high," Cheran added.

The film '96, which was produced by S NandaGopal on behalf of Madras Enterprises, hit screens only last week. Cinematographer Prem made his debut as a director through this film, which features Makkal Selvan Vijay Sethupathi, Trisha, Baks, Aadukalam Murugadoss, Devadarshini, Aaditya Baskar among others.