Danny Boyle's Slumdog Millionaire gave a rather crude portrayal of the slums of Mumbai, a portrayal that created quite an uproar, as being very negative. But louder was the applause that the movie received at the Oscars when it waltzed away with eight awards. However, down South, it's not uncommon for movies to be based on people living in the lower economic strata; with the success of movies such as Naan Kadavul, capturing life below the poverty line is what is hot right now.

Produced under the prestigious Satyajyothi Film,( which has given the neat entertainers Moondram Pirai, Kizhaku Vasal, Idhayam, Parthiban Kanavu, Em Magan and Jayam Kondaan, Baana Kathadi is one such film set in the slums of Chennai. The film also marks the debut of actor Murali's son Atharva. Producer Sathajyothi Thyagarajan - who made Murali a household name through Pagal Nilavu - is all set to make his son famous too! Chirpy newcomer Samantha, who played Trisha's role in the Telugu version of Vinnaithaandi Varuvaayaa, plays the female lead. Prasanna plays a prominent role in the film.

Yuvanshankar Raja - who has his finger on the pulse of today's youth - composes the music of Baana Kathadi which is directed by Badri Venkatesh. The technical crew includes Richard M. Nathan (Camera), Badri Venkatesh (Story), G. Radha Krishnan (Dialogues), Rock Prabhu (Stunts) and Suresh Urs (Editing). Karunas in a vital role will provide comic relief.

Touted to be a slice-of-life film, the movie promises to be another moving story from the seamy side of society. "The film is set in the slums of Teynampet and will be a realistic entertainer," says director Badri Venkatesh, who has made a number of ad films.

The film is expected to grace theatres by mid June.

PS: Atharva is the screen name of Murali's son; his real name is Vijay and he is an electronics and communication engineer. Now, an actor too!