The audio and trailer for the upcoming film Retro, starring Suriya and directed by Karthik Subbaraj, were released at a large-scale event held at Chennai’s Nehru Indoor Stadium. Attended by cast, crew, and numerous fans, the event marked a significant step ahead of the film’s scheduled worldwide theatrical release on May 1st. Producer Karthikeyan Santhanam described the project as containing a “special, quality, beautiful, loving incident,” using the word “sambavam.”
Produced jointly by Suriya’s 2D Entertainment and Karthik Subbaraj’s Stone Bench Films, Retro is described as a romantic action entertainer. Rajsekar Karpoorasundarapandian of 2D Entertainment noted it was the company’s 15th production and highlighted the collaboration with Stone Bench Films, mentioning an intensive 36-day shooting schedule in the Andaman Islands facilitated by director Subbaraj’s team planning. Karthikeyan Santhanam, representing Stone Bench Films, spoke warmly of the partnership and praised Suriya’s character, stating, “I don’t know if it’s possible to be such a gentleman like Suriya. I haven’t seen the kind of love he shows towards people and fans in anyone else.”
The film features music by Santhosh Narayanan. Lyricist Vivek, who previously worked with 2D Entertainment on 36 Vayadhinile, praised the composer as a “genius” and spoke about the creative freedom provided by director Subbaraj. He mentioned that three songs had been released so far, with more to come. Rajsekar Karpoorasundarapandian added that Santhosh Narayanan also makes a dance appearance in one of the film’s songs.
A notable moment came from actor Sivakumar, Suriya’s father, who recounted anecdotes about his son’s unexpected entry into cinema. He shared an astrologer’s early prediction that Suriya would achieve great success in the arts, surpassing his father. Sivakumar expressed gratitude to directors Vasanth and Mani Ratnam for launching Suriya’s career with Nerukku Ner, and to director Bala for establishing him as a serious actor with Nandha. “I bow down to directors Mani Ratnam and Vasanth who elevated Suriya, who didn’t even dream about cinema, into an actor today,” Sivakumar stated.
The film boasts a large ensemble cast including Pooja Hegde, Joju George, Jayaram, Nassar, and Prakash Raj, among others. Actor Joju George mentioned being initially apprehensive about his role but felt the film gave him confidence. Gajaraj, actor and father of director Karthik Subbaraj, noted that Retro marked his 100th film appearance. Director Alphonse Puthren, known for Premam, also spoke briefly, confirming his involvement in working on the film’s trailer.