Under 18, a new Tamil film from the production house behind Metraskaran, is set inside a Government Observation Home. The title look, unveiled by director Vetrimaaran, frames the setting plainly: a faded institutional signboard, silhouettes of children visible in the shadows below.
The film is written and directed by Karthik Perumalsami, who worked as Vetrimaaran’s associate director before stepping out on his own. Aishwarya Rajesh, Vikranth, and Kishore lead the cast. Producer B. Jagadish, whose SR Productions banner backed Metraskaran, is producing.
The Vetrimaaran connection goes beyond the title launch. Karthik Perumalsami has spent time researching real crime cases across Tamil Nadu for the script, which explores the criminal underworld’s impact on a family through the lens of juvenile institutional life. The approach echoes the kind of ground-level research associated with his mentor’s work on films like Vada Chennai and Viduthalai. Under 18 is described as an emotional drama rooted in real incidents rather than a conventional genre piece.
The technical team is notably strong for a first-time director. Velraj, who has shot blockbusters like Theri and Viswasam, handles cinematography. Sam CS, known for scoring thrillers including Vikram Vedha and Maanaadu, composes the music. Peter Hein choreographs the action. Shooting will take place across Hosur, Chengalpattu, and Chennai using real locations, and is expected to begin shortly.