Madras Matinee, directed by Karthikeyan Mani and produced under the banner of Madras Motion Pictures, was released on June 6 and has been met with widespread acclaim from audiences and critics alike. Featuring a cast that includes Sathyaraj, Kali Venkat, Shelley, Roshini Haripriyan, Vishwa, George Maryan, Archana Sandhuke, Sunil Sukhadha, Sams, and Geetha Kailasam, the film has seen an impressive theatrical run across the state, backed by strong word-of-mouth.To mark this success, the team organized a thanksgiving event in Chennai to express their gratitude to fans and the media. The event was attended by the cast and crew, including director Karthikeyan Mani and actor Kali Venkat.
Speaking at the event, director Karthikeyan Mani said, “I chose ‘Madras Matinee’ as my debut because it tells a story that has rarely been explored — the real heroes in our lives, our parents, who keep striving despite all odds. I wanted to narrate their story with the feel of a theatrical experience.”
He acknowledged that, being a new director with a fresh team and a small budget, the film could have easily been overlooked. “But the strength of the story won hearts. The media played a vital role in supporting us. I’m also thankful to Dream Warrior Pictures, and especially producer S.R. Prabhu and Kugan, for stepping in and helping this film reach more people,” he said.
Actor Kali Venkat, who received strong praise for his performance, said, “When director Karthikeyan narrated the story to me through creative producer Abishek Raja, I was immediately reminded of my father. This film is a tribute to him. After release, when I went to a theatre, people hugged me and cried. My shirt was soaked in tears. I will never forget that moment.”
He further noted, “The impact this character created was something I didn’t foresee. As actors, we are blessed to be part of stories that make people feel so deeply. I also want to thank Vadivelu sir for lending his voice to a song in this film.”
Praising the sound design of Madras Matinee, Kali Venkat said it exceeded even some of the bigger films he had watched. He concluded by appreciating the director, saying, “Some may ask what’s there in showing the life of an ordinary man. Karthikeyan Mani has shown them the answer — with honesty, simplicity, and a whole lot of heart.”
Madras Matinee continues to win over audiences, proving that meaningful storytelling can strike a powerful chord even without grand spectacle.