'The Dirty Picture' 'isn't a biopic'

Vidya Balan film The Dirty Picture can no longer be described as a biopic, according to its makers.

Milan Luthria's directorial venture is currently facing legal action from the family of Silk Smitha, whose life is loosely depicted in the film.

Production company Balaji told DNA India: "It draws inspiration from the strugglers in the '80s whose indomitable spirit made them emerge triumphant and create a unique space for themselves in a male-dominated film industry.

"The film is not a formal biopic or biography, as is being speculated. It is a work of fiction, and if any characters resemble real persons, living or dead, it is coincidental."

The brother of the late South Indian actress has accused Luthria of failing to ask his family's permission when making the film, which was due to be released on the same day as Smitha's birthday.

Watch the trailer for The Dirty Picture below: