Autograph was a surprise hit. Cheran, who had earlier won a National Award for making a film with a message attempting to spread social awareness, is one of the few sensitive filmmakers in Tamil cinema. He blended commercial and artistic elements beautifully in this 'autobiographical' film.

Cheran had approached many heroes to portray the lead role, based on his experiences, but all of them refused. Finally, he had to play himself in the film.

Many filmmakers now want Cheran to act in their films.

Of the three heroines in the film, it was Gopika from Kerala who made it big.