Autograph

I don't watch much Tamil cinema (mostly because I'm not familiar with it), but when I was last in India I heard many people talking about this film. They were saying it was moving and touching, something which i generally equated to overwrought melodrama.

Almost eight months later, I came across the DVD for "Autograph" by accident, and decided to give it a try. I was shocked.

This was an excellent picture, done with care and a lot of heart. Sure there are a few (and only a rare few) overly melodramatic moments, but overall it really touched me. Anyone (especially men) who have gone through the turmoils of relationships broken or incomplete will feel a joyfully sorrow connection to this film. I was moved by its honesty and quite frank look at relationships, and it brought a smile to my face when the film reveled in the exuberance and innocence of childhood crushes and young infatuation.

I rarely recommend modern commercial Indian cinema (because most of it is unfortunately subpar), but this is a lovely little film, definitely an engaging romantic drama. Kudos to the director/ writer Cheran for doing excellent work with visuals and performances, and I hope he continues to make such honest films in the future. 8/10

I watched this show recently a decade later at its time of release

Autograph spotlights on the romantic escapades of a boy growing into a man. The story is told by the protagonist using the flashback method as he is on a trip down the memory lane inviting people whom he has come across in is life for his wedding. Be ready to plunge yourself in nostalgia even if u did not grew up in the time period shown in the movie. The events shown in the movie happens in every other person;s life regardless of the any time period. The presentation is refreshingly different for Tamil cinema and never done before on such a scale .

The film started off with a slow village scenario and gets interesting in the middle in the Cheran_Gopika episode. The other amazing aspect of the film is the debut performance of The Malayalee actress Gopika. Shecarries out her role with extreme ease like a seasoned actress it is hard not to get mesmerized by her natural beauty and natural performance.

The locales of Kerala, a treat for the eyes. The 'Hippi' hairstyles, 'Bell Bottom' Pants and 'Big Flap Collared' shirts should have been omitted and some unnecessary out of place commercial songs.

The background score is well done and addictive. This is Cheran's best film to date Overall a refreshing movie to watch with the family

I watched this movie when I was 7 and I am from kerala. Still remember the imbact of this movie. This is an awesome movie. And I feel premam is similar to this movie

Autograph (2004), directed by and starring Cheran, is a heartfelt masterpiece that beautifully captures the essence of love, friendship, and nostalgia. A gem of Tamil cinema, the film takes viewers on an emotional rollercoaster, recounting pivotal chapters of a man's life through a series of flashbacks, each resonating with universal emotions.

The narrative unfolds as Senthil (Cheran) travels across India to invite people from his past to his wedding. What starts as a simple journey soon evolves into a deeply reflective exploration of his school days, first love, heartbreak, and the friendships that shaped his life. Each phase is distinct, yet seamlessly woven together, making the story feel deeply personal yet universally relatable.

The film excels in its authenticity. Cheran's subtle direction and natural performance lend an understated charm to the narrative. The cast, including Gopika, Sneha, and Mallika, deliver moving performances, bringing Senthil's relationships to life. Bharadwaj's soul-stirring music, especially songs like "Ovvoru Pookalume" and "Manasukkulle Dhagam Vanthucha," elevate the emotions, making every scene linger in the heart long after the credits roll.

It's surprising that Autograph has so few reviews despite its timeless impact. Two decades later, it still captivates, evoking vivid memories of high school crushes, bittersweet first loves, and the irreplaceable friendships of youth. The film's ability to transport viewers back to their own cherished moments is a testament to its enduring brilliance.

Autograph was a rare movie in that it is artsy but not boring like the other art films. It can be enjoyed by both commercial movie lovers and parallel cinema lovers. I truly enjoyed this movie. I can say that I loved the second part and the 4 th (last) part of the movie. 1st part and 3rd parts were OK. 3rd part was a little overdone. But yes, definitely worth watching. The music was very pleasant to hear. The song picturizations were definitely a plus.

Special mention about Gopika. She has a fresh face and acted pretty well considering that she is a new comer. The director and the lead guy Cheran also wins my appreciation.

Congrats with this movie and expecting more of such movies from him..

P.S - Kerala is depicted so beautifully. I must appreciate the camera work.