Aishwarya Rajesh, Vikranth power family crime thriller

Aishwarya Rajesh and Vikranth play a married couple in director Karthik Perumal Sami’s upcoming family crime drama, Under 18 . The debutant, who previously worked as associate director to Vetri Maaran, says the film is rooted in his on-ground research into crime networks across Tamil Nadu.The story centres on the life of a 17-year-old boy and the harsh realities faced by minors caught in criminal syndicates. “I met nearly 150 children under 18 who were trapped by organised groups. Many were forced to commit crimes and even take the blame for offences committed by others. Those interactions were shocking and heartbreaking,” he says. In the film, Aishwarya plays a bold cop, while Vikranth essays a physical education teacher. “I worked with Aishwarya in Vada Chennai. She is grounded and brings intensity to her performances. Vikranth is a wonderful human being and suits the role perfectly,” shares Karthik.Kishore appears as an ethical lawyer. “I’ve known Kishore sir since Polladhavan (2007). I admire his thought process and often turn to him for advice, including scriptrelated doubts,” the director adds. Music is composed by Sam CS, who, Karthik notes, commits to projects only after reading and connecting with the script.Referring to Vetri Maaran as his mentor, Karthik speaks about the filmmaker’s influence on his journey. “I've been working as his assistant director since his first film. I've learnt about cinema and life from him. I can share anything I think of with him. Vetri sir creates a space for his ADs to understand the craft and screenplay. He will make ADs sit with him in the editing room and give them a lot of books to read.”