Chennai, Mar 26 (IANS): Director Prabhu Solomon says upcoming Dhanush-starrer Tamil action-drama "Thodari" is based on a train journey he went on a couple of decades ago.

"In 1991, soon after I graduated, I hopped on a train to Ghaziabad from Neyveli for my first job. It was my first train journey, and it lasted two days and one night. Everything that I experienced during the course of this trip inspired me to make 'Thodari'," Solomon told IANS.

For the "Kumki" director, the trip was enlightening.

"On this trip, all the people I met, everyone I spoke to and the memories inspired me to make this film. This is a big project, both in terms of budget and canvas when compared to my previous ones. Though this idea has been with me for long, the time to turn it into a film came now," he said.

Dhanush plays a pantry worked in the film, which also stars Keerthy Suresh.

Known for working with newcomers, Solomon chose Dhanush because he loves his performance.

"It's true that I prefer working with new faces, but Dhanush is an exception. He's an amazing actor and this film will showcase another side of the actor in him," he said.

The film is slated for release in May.