'Chennai 600028' a surprise Tamil hit

Distributors were not interested in "Chennai 600028", neither were theatre owners because the film had no big names to boast of. But it has turned out to be a winner at the box office.

Now big theatres are opening their doors to the film and many distributors ruing their decision. The film, produced by S.P.B. Charan, the son of well-known singer S.P. Balasubramaniam, is a surprise hit.

The top five Tamil films are:

1. "Chennai 600028" - Director: Venkat Prabhu. Youngsters simply love this small film with unknown actors and with 'gulli' cricket as the backdrop. This is an unexpected hit because of its simplicity and realism.

2. "Naan Avan Illai" - Director: Selva. The film is a remake of an old classic with the same title. The remake is technically brilliant and sleeker. Jeevan is excellent in the role immortalised by Gemini Ganesan.

3. "Periyar" - Director: Gnana Rajasekharan. A film by a serious filmmaker like Rajasekharan was not expected to attract people, but it has got an excellent response throughout Tamil Nadu. Satyaraj is superb as Periyar.

4. "Unnale Unnale" - Director: Jeeva. The urban youth have lapped up this love story directed by cinematographer-turned-director Jeeva.

5. "Paruthiveeran" - Director: Ameer. The film is continuing its golden run.