Small-budget 'Chennai 600028' steals the show

Produced by S.P.B. Charan, son of well-known singer S.P. Balasubrahmanyam, "Chennai 600028" is the surprise hit of 2007. In a welcome sign, quite a few small films have made it to the top this year.

The top five Tamil films are:

1. "Chennai 600028" - Director: Venkat Prabhu. This film with 'gulli' cricket as the backdrop is evoking nostalgia among youngsters who have grown up playing the game. The success of the small film reaffirms the fact that good and realistic cinema will ultimately succeed.

2. "Naan Avan Illai" - Director: Selva. Another surprise hit. Films like "Chennai 600028" and "Naan Avan Illai" are rewriting rules in the film industry. It is a remake of the old classic by K. Balachander, which had Gemini Ganesan as the hero. Jeevan is excellent in the role immortalised by the legendary actor.

3. "Unnale Unnale" - Director: Jeeva. Directed by cinematographer-turned-director Jeeva, this is also a surprise hit but only in the cities. Multiplex crowds are enjoying the love story.

4. "Periyar" - Director: Gnana Rajasekharan. The film was not expected to be a box-office hit. But excellent direction and a brilliant performance by the cast, especially Satyaraj, have made the movie a memorable one.

5. "Paruthiveeran" - Director: Ameer. People still go and watch this action film with a difference.