An Actor with his own choice of films July 06, 2011 10:42
He has debuted in the industry as a character artist, has done many films as a Villain, then as a Character Artist, and then turned a Hero. Initially he has done some films as a Hero that were Heroine oriented, and soon donned a image of a family Hero, then tried some serious characters and now experimental films. He is none other than Hero Srikanth. His recent release, Neelakanta’s Directorial ‘Virodhi’, is earning good amount of reviews. In this regard, I have happened to meet the Actor. He was well behaved, appeared to be serious, but, has his witty side, on the other hand. Let me share the talk we had, were the Actor shares his experience about working in ‘Virodhi’, his career graph and more; AW: Hi Sir, congratulations on the success of ‘Virodhi’Srikanth: Hi thanks a lot. AW: So, just move some months back, and we want to know how did ‘Virodhi’ happened Srikanth: Well, you know how creative Director Neelakanta is. He might be not many films old, but, his style of making a cinema is definitely to be appreciated. After taking a break from films, for almost 1+ year, Neelakanta has approached me for narrating the script. After listening to the same, there was like a kind of intuition that came into my mind on the film to be sure shot success. So, I immediately agreed to do ‘Virodhi’. AW: You seem to be experimenting with your roles these days?Srikanth: Yes, but, if I appear in same old regular family stories, or comic jorner films, people would recognize me for the same. Initially I have done these films in order to get the identity in the industry and also to earn my livelihood. Today, I have earned whatever I want. So, this is a time for me to showcase my Acting Skills by acting in various jorners of films. This is the reason for me to try out the roles in the films like ‘Mahatma’ and now ‘Virodhi’. AW: But, don’t you think in the process of you experimenting with the roles, the film maker would be at a stake?Srikanth: Tell me one thing, why would any Director and film maker approach me, if they do not have confidence in me? No film maker would make a Movie to be a flop. The success or the failures of the films are a total probability. I work to give my 100% in every film. It is upon the audience, how they take these films as. AW: Coming back to ‘Virodhi’, you have paired up with Kamalini Mukherjee for the first time in this film. Could you share your working experience with her?Srikanth: Kamalini is one such Actress in the T – Town, who has to be applauded for her amazing acting skills. I have seen her enacting the situations, with her face and eye expressions, that are not possible to many of other Top Heroines. Kamalini is the Actress who believes in doing quality films rather than quantity of the number of films. I am really glad that I have worked with her. AW: and about the Director of the film, NeelakantaSrikanth: What can I say about him? He is already a critically acclaimed Director, who has won National Award for his work. His films, ‘Show’ and ‘Missamma’ are popular till date. As far as ‘Virodhi’ is concerned the way the Neelakanta has dealt with the sensitive story line, it is not an easy task. But, seeing at the success of the film, it is once again proved that Neelakanta is one such Director, who is worth of being a Top most director in Telugu Cinema. He is very high in technicalities, knows what he has to do, and at the same time respects the others for their experience and knowledge. Good that I have had a opportunity to work with such a Director. AW: this film has been produced by your Brother. Any particular reason?Srikanth: his passion towards films and nothing else. When everything else, including the star cast of the film, there was a dilemma as to who will produce the film. Then my brother came into picture. Since, we could not afford to lose such a good script from hand, my brother decided to produce the film. AW: ‘Virodhi’ has been getting mixed reviews. What’s your take on this?Srikanth: ‘Virodhi’ is definitely an experimental film. Then it is quite common that the film will earn mixed reviews from the critics. But, we are confident that ‘Virodhi’ will be more successful, moving further. And, I once again request all the audience to watch such a good film, in theaters and not in pirated CD’s. So, this is what I had an opportunity to speak to the Actor. We wish ‘Virodhi’, to be a successful film, ahead.
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'I DO NOT REACT TO GOSSIPS' - Says Kajal June 20, 2011 12:54
She made her entry into films as a Character Artist, in a B – Town film, ‘Kyon.. Hogaya Na’, then made her full fledged as a Heroine in T – Town with Teja’s Directorial ‘Lakshmi Kalyanam’, opposite Kalyan Ram. Her amazing looks, her acting skills, her expressive eyes, made her get many films inspite of her first film, did not fare well at the box office. The Actress who has become Number One in T – Town today, will be soon making her B – Town debut, opposite Ajay Devgan, in ‘Singham’. Heroine Kajal Agarwal celebrated her 26th Birthday on 19th June. Andhrawishesh team had a quick chat with the Heroine. Here is the minutes of the chat for you; AW: Many Many Happy Returns of the Day Kajal: Thank You.. AW: So, what is the Birthday Special? Kajal: well, celebrating my Birthday with my family and some close friends. I am not a party animal. I like to keep my life simple. AW: How is about your career? Kajal: well, you are witnessing it. Since my first film, till my latest release ‘Mr. Perfect’, I have had some very fantastic films to do. In today’s cinema, where Heroes are only given priority, almost every role I have done was given equal importance to that of a Hero. This is a very motivating factor. I am looking forward for my B – Town Debut as well, with the film ‘Singham’, I am acting opposite Ajay Devgan in this film. I am glad that many B – Town film makers are coming to me, offering me roles in their films too, but, nothing has been finalized yet, as I will be busy completing ‘Dhada’ with Naga Chaitanya, soon, will be teaming up with Mahesh Babu in Puri’s ‘Businessman’, and a Tamil film opposite Hero Surya. I am more than excited with about films this year. AW: But, we have come to know that you are not acting in ‘Busineesman’? Kajal: with whom you have come to know this? As far as I know, neither the film makers, nor I have confirmed this news, then how can this be the truth? It is a complete rumor and nothing else. I am more than excited that I am paired opposite Mahesh. It has been my longtime dream to act opposite him. Finally, I am a part of the crazy combination of Puri Jagannath and Mahesh Babu. AW: How do you react to the rumors linking you and Prabhas? Kajal: Oh! Please don’t ask me. The Media has made Prabhas propose to me, I being his girl friend, he talking about our so called relationship and marriage with their parents, and we both splitting up. Look what rumors can do. They can create a story that is more interesting than a film’s story. Let me make things clear. I am not seeing anyone. Atleast for next five years, marriage is not on the cards. AW: How to you react being No.1 in this industry? Kajal: I have never believed in Number game. Neither will believe this. I am here to do some quality work and get recognized for my performance. Today, I am getting offers, so I have been considering as a Number One. Tomorrow, if film makers find more better actress than me, then she will be Number One. There is no big deal about this. AW: How much do you support as a sister, in your younger sister Nisha’s career? Kajal: Nisha is independent enough to take her own decisions. Nisha is moving in this industry with her own set of roles. I and my family support her. Nisha is working in a very good role opposite Nara Rohit in ‘Solo’. Even she will have a promising career in near future. AW: before we wind up, what is your Birthday resolution? Kajal: I do not believe in resolutions. I believe in living this moment and enjoying each and every second in my work.With this, the quick chat was complete and the actress resumed for her work again. Andhrawishesh team wishes the Actress a Very Happy Birthday and a very prosperous year ahead.
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“My Entire life is associated with Cinema” Senior Actress Geethanjali June 13, 2011 10:37
She was a Heroine, Character Artist, she made people laugh with her comedy, Telugu, Tamil, Kannada and Malyalam, and she acted in almost 400+ movies and still acting. Debut Directors Chandrashekar’s ‘Chandamama Katha’, released Two weeks ago, Starring Hero Allari Naresh, Senior Actress Geetanjali and rest of the well noted artists acted in this film. I had an opportunity to meet the Actress, listen to her lifetime experiences, her view about ‘Chandamama Katha’, and yes, it was a lifetime experience to me too. Before meeting Geetanjali, I was in a second thought that she is a Senior Artist, but, how it would be speaking to her now, and so on. Once I met her, my ideology about the Senior Artists Have changed to Positive. I am sharing some chit chat with you; AW: Hello MamGeetanjali: (Smiles) Hello. AW: share your experience working in ‘Chandamama Katha’.Geetanjali: every person, who loves the stories told by his/her grandmother, will definitely love ‘Chandamama Katha’. Even though the film is directed by a New Director, Chandrasekhar, who is also a producer of the film, you would never feel that the film is made by a newcomer. I am feeling very happy to be associated with the film. chandamama Katha will surely take you back to your child hood memories. The film is a journey of a life time. AW: Mam, I want you to tell me about your all these experience of being associated with the films.Geetanjali: cinema is my daily routine. I have acted in 400+ films in all the south Indian languages. I did not categorize myself as a Heroine only. I wanted to be recognized as a Artist. And today, I have succeeded. There was a time when I used to work almost every day, at a time in three different films in three different languages. My father’s support brought me all the name I have earned today. he taught me only to work and nothing else. I am following the same till date.I am lucky to work with Legends of Indian Cinema such as N.T.R, A.N.R, Shivaji Ganesan, Rajkumar and a young Hero like Allari Naresh too. AW: How is it working with, Allari Naresh?Geetanjali: Naresh is a very nice Human Being. He is only concerned about his work, acting skills and nothing else. He is very professional as a Actor. Industry needs more talented Heroes like Naresh. AW: Finally, About the Director of the film?Geetanjali: Chandrashekar’s one good quality is his patience. He extracts the maximum out of the artist with the same patience. AW: Finally, to our readers.Geetanjali: please do watch ‘Chandamama Katha’, Small film need to survive in order to the Industry to survive. ith this the Artist resumed to her shot, and I came back learning a fact that, a true artist never retires from acting.
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‘I never run Behind Awards’-Says Neelakanta June 27, 2011 11:33
To my fortune, I have met one such Personality, who knows what are films, despite achieving extreme recognition with National Award, he is so down to earth, after speaking to him for a while, I have learnt how choosy he is about which film to make. He is none other than, Award winning Director Neelakanta. The pleasure is all mine in sharing my chat with him; AW: So, How is everything going Sir? Neelakanta: All fine. Working on my upcoming ‘Virodhi’, Starring Srikanth and Kamalini Mukherjee. AW: after Mr. Medhavi, you did not direct any other film. Any reason as such? Neelakanta: no reason in particular. Not many interesting projects have come up. After ‘Misamma’, there was no success for me. Let us talk the truth, no one would be interested in working with a director, whose films are not minimum guarantee success. And like any other Director, I cannot make any project, just to achieve commercial success. So, I had to wait all these years. AW: Then how did ‘Virodhi’ happen? Neelakanta: I wished to make a film, those talks about the burning issue in the society today. This led me towards writing a script. In this process I have met Hero Srikanth, narrated the script to him, and finally ‘Virodhi’, went on – location, Anil, brother of Srikanth, producing the film. AW: Why only Srikanth? The film seems to be a Action flick by seeing the trailers and Srikanth is a family Hero turned Action Hero? Neelakanta: at first, I would only look at the Story and choose all the characters as per the personalities of the story. As per ‘Virodhi’ film, Srikanth was the only person whom I can look upto, so I chose Srikanth, to act in the film. Same as in the case of Heroine of the film Kamalini Mukherjee and for that matter all the other characters. AW: All your films have equal importance to your Heroines. What about in ‘Virodhi’? Neelakanta: definitely. Even in ‘Virodhi’, the female lead role of the film, Kamalini Mukherjee has a very significant role to play. Disclosing anything more about the film as of now would be too earlier. AW: Well, about other Technicians of the film? Neelakanta: as far as Music is concerned, R.P. Ptnaik has given some extra ordinary scores that would best suite the film. I am also very happy to work with, Ram Chandra, who is a Award Winning Cinematographer, taking care of the Camera work of ‘Virodhi’. It is like; I am back in the industry with the bang, with ‘Virodhi’. I am looking forward to entertain the audience with ‘Virodhi’. AW: What are your upcoming projects Sir? Neelakanta: Well, nothing has been finalized yet. Let my film, ‘Virodhi’, to be released soon. The upcoming projects will come their way. AW: Why Sir, Just like your first two films, ‘Show’ and ‘Missamma’, are you waiting to bag an award with ‘Virodhi’ also? Neelakanta: I have never gone back of awards. I was only passionate about Movies and nothing else. If my film manages to entertain the audience, that is more than enough. Infact, that itself is a big award for me. I hope, people accept ‘Virodhi’. With this I took a leave from the Director. I wish the Director could make a comeback with ‘Virodhi’, and sustain to make some more quality films.
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‘Vykuntapaali’ is a Movie that makes a ‘Difference’ May 27, 2011 18:48
Anil Gopi Reddy Director – Music Director of the film ‘Vykuntapaali’ releasing today, Anil Gopi Reddy talks to Andhrawishesh team about ‘Vykuntapaali’, the starcast and his contribution to the film; AW: So, how do you feel about your first film as a Director being released today? Anil: oh! Please don’t ask me. Only I know how nervous I am feeling. Someone said it right, a film for a Director is like a Baby for a Mother. My baby is ready to come out today. (Laughs) AW: How did ‘Vykuntapaali’ happen? Anil: though I was a Music Director by Profession and worked with many Music Directors, being a Director has always been my passion. Infact, the story of ‘Vykuntapaali’ came out of that passion itself. I did not want to make any other regular film. I want people to think, after seeing my film. I want to pass on a message to the society with my film. This made me to write a script like ‘Vykuntapaali’. After I was all prepared with the script, it was no one else more than I could connect to the film. And this made me to compose even the Music scores of the film. AW: Tell us about the Star cast? Anil: well, I first approached Ranadheer (Happy Days fame) with the story. He really got impressed and introduced me to his friends Bhuvaneshwar Marem and Satya Deep Reddy, who later turned out to be the producers of the film. Apart from Ranadheer, Krishnudu, Ajay and Tashu Kaushik play the lead roles in the film. I approached Tashu to act in the film, through a social networking site. ‘Vykuntapaali’ is a Team effort. AW: A single female lead and three male leads. Opposite whom would Tashu Kaushik be seen in the film? Anil: I can’t reveal this. But, I can say, ‘Vykuntapaali’ is a message oriented film. The story revolves around three guys who have their own Idea of leading their lives. Now, who would succeed amongst the three and who is a failure and why, has to be seen on Silver Screen today. Even Tashu has a very prominent role to be played in the film. AW: you are a Director and Music Director of the film. Was it difficult to manage two tasks at a time? Anil: I infact wanted to produce the film, apart from Directing and composing music. I feel stories like ‘Vykuntapaali’ that are not regular, are a bit risky from a producer’s perspective. So, I wanted to take the risk. But, my friend Ranadheer suggested me to concentrate only on making the film a best one. He and his friends took the responsibility of the entire production. AW: the film is releasing today. How do you think the Audience will accept this? Anil: I would urge the audience to come to watch ‘Vykuntapaali’, absolutely with no expectations. Trust me the audience amount invested in watching a good film will not be wasted. I would like to mention one thing here. When well noted editor Marthand K. Venkatesh (who is a Editor for ‘Vykuntapaali’ also) was editing the film, he just looked at me and said ‘As a Director you have succeeded. Now, how the audience will receive this film, you completely leave this on the audience itself’. I consider this to be one of the biggest compliments of my life. AW: Anything else you want to convey to our readers? Anil: I would urge all the readers to stop encouraging piracy. It is nothing but killing the entire film Industry. If you have to watch ‘Vykuntapaali’, watch it in the theater with your family. We promise, the film is a 100% paisa vasool. With this the Director resumed to watch the Morning show of ‘Vykuntapaali’ in theater. I have come back to share this chat with you. After watching the film, I will be back again to give a review of ‘Vykuntapaali’. Hope the film would be a Paisa Vasool.
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I had a Big Argument with Dil Raju May 18, 2011 20:10
He is a Hot cake for Telugu and Tamil film Industries. Right from the Director, to Heroes, to Producers wants him to be a part of their films. His calendar for the Entire year of 2011 is filled with films. He is none other than most wanted Music Director Thaman.S, while he just took a small break from his re recording work for his upcoming film ‘Vyshali’. Catch a quick chit chat with Thaman. S that Andhra Wishesh Team Had.AW: Hi Thaman.Thaman: HeyAW: So, how’s life going on?Thaman: Hmmm, full of work. But yes, I am definitely enjoying it and have been waiting for this movement since the age of 8.AW: Since the age of 8? Please explain.Thaman: well, I have come to this Industry, when I was 8 years old. My first film was Nag starrer ‘Hello Brother’. I have joined as Koti Sir’s assistant with this film. My passion for music alone drove me towards the Industry, from then onwards, I have worked with legends like Manisharma Sir, Director Shankar Sir. In fact, while acting in the film ‘Boys’ I was more into composing tunes and making them listen to Shankar Sir. He has given me the first opportunity as a Music Director.AW: First opportunity?Thaman: Yes, ‘Vyshali’ is my first film as a Music Director. In Tamil the film is named as ‘Eeram’. Shankar Sir is the producer of the film. The film is directed by Shankar Sir’s assistant; Arivazhagan Venkatachalam is the director of the film. After this film, I got popular in both Tamil and Telugu Industries. AW: Tell us more about ‘Vyshali’ the film is going to be released on 27th of this month.Thaman: ‘Vyshali’ is not a feel good film. This is a film with lot of change over’s in it. It is Suspense – Horror film. I would request the audience to watch this film without any expectations. Then all of you will definitely like it and at least for a day after watching the film, all of you would stay calm. AW: If ‘Vyshali’ is a Horror – Suspense film, then why those two sensuous and romantic track in it?Thaman: well, I can’t reveal this now. But yes, all the songs in the film are definitely situation based.AW: You have been continuously composing music since your first film Jayeebhava. So, how do you plan for a change over from one film to another?Thaman: I don’t plan anything in particular. But yes, I would definitely keep in mind the story, the situation on which I am composing a song, and most important, the Body languages of the lead stars. Also, I would keep in mind that I am here to work for those film makers who give me money and ask me to make best of the music I can. So, you can see the output.AW: Tell us how your career graph was?Thaman: amazing. I feel lucky enough to be surrounded with so many good people. Everyone recognized my work and encouraged me with excellent opportunities. Right from Ravi teja to Nagarjuna I have composed music for many happening heroes in Tollywood. AW: We heard that, this year’s calendar of yours is full of new projects?Thaman: Oh, yes. As of now ‘Veera’ and ‘Vyshali’ are scheduled for release. I am composing for Mahesh’s ‘Dookudu’. I have also signed for Mahesh’s next ‘Businessman’ and some more films are under discussions. Apart from this I am doing some interesting projects on Kollywood too, one of them being ‘Dabanng’ remake, Starring Simbhu.AW: Tell us more about ‘Vyshali’.Thaman: I will share a incident with you. Vyshali is a dubbed version of Tamil film ‘Eeram’ that means water. When the discussions were going on about the film’s title in Telugu, I literally fought with Dil Raju Sir as I asked him to title the film, that meaning would sense water. But, in Telugu this was not possible, so he changed the name of the Heroine of the film to Vyshali and ended up putting the same title. And even the Hero Heroine, Aadi and Sindu Menon have given extra ordinary performance. It would be a excellent come back for Sindu menon.AW: Finally, what do you have to say about Music, Being a Music Director?Thaman: Music is a soul of everyone. It mesmerizes us, changes our mood, makes us dance, make us dream, and even heals our diseases. I personally can’t live without music.With this the Music Director resumed back to his work and we to upload this chat to you. But one thing I learnt from Thaman is, no matter how successful you are as a person, it is very important not to forget from where you have come.
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Sukumar latest Talk May 16, 2011 19:35
A Director of his own “logic”He is a Director, who has logic to every point he tells. Even audience also accepts this logic of him by making his every film a huge success. It could be One Side Love, guys aiming to become a Rowdy, My Love is Gone or proving ‘Infatuation’ as a True feeling that Love. All this is only possible to Director Sukumar. Andhra wishesh team had a quick chat with the ‘100% Love’ Director. Good see such a Big Director, with cool, calm and Down to earth nature. Here is some chit – chat for you too;AW: Hi Sir, congrats on the success of ‘100% Love’Sukumar: Thanks. Thank you very much.AW: So, tell us how did “100% Love” happen?Sukumar: I always liked the thought of a Boy and a girl studying together. Infact, when I was in my Intermediate, there were a Sister – Brother I know who used to sit and study together. With this point I have written ‘100% Love’. Since this is a film, instead of Brother – Sister, I have changed the relationship to ‘Baava – Maradalu’.AW: Every film of yours has a point in it. And Audience will also receive it most of the times. How to you feel about this?Sukumar: I feel happy. And as far as the point that I project in my films is concerned, it is nothing but my passion towards films, because of which I look at things from a Different perspective. Many times, it is a success and some times it is a failure. Before writing even a single dialogue, I only look at it from the Audience perspective. Because end of the day, the films are for audience.AW: Sir, these days, ‘Item Songs’ are like compulsory. Even in your films, right from Aarya to 100% Love every film has an Item song. Why Sir?Sukumar: I do not know about other Directors, but in my Films, Item Songs are purely for Mass Audience. I create a situation for a Item Song. Today, a film is not just for any particular class of Audience. That is the reason my films strive to be overall entertainers. AW: So is 100% Love. Sir, how did Allu Arivind ji reacted when he heard the story?Sukumar: irrespective of age, Arvind ji is one such film maker who always wants audience to watch and enjoy ‘fresh’ films. When I told the story to him, I have taken round about 100 titles to him like ‘Balu – Swapna’ types. Infact, the title ‘100% Love’ was my last option. Surprisingly, Arvind ji liked the title and 100% Love today is a 100% success, because audience also liked it.AW: We wanted to know, how did you highlight the feeling of ‘Infatuation’ in the film Sir?Sukumar: people won’t accept. But the reality is that only ‘Infatuation’ is a true feeling when you see a opposite person, first. All these affections, understanding, love come later. I did not mean that all these are not true. I only meant ‘Infatuation’ is true. And I feel even audience meant the same after watching 100% love.AW: Every film of yours has Logic in it that projects every point in a different way. Do you apply this logic of yours in real life too?Sukumar: (Laughs) No. till now I have not made any such experiments. Life is all about emotions. People like to see some thing different on Silver Screen, so come these Logics. AW: Ok, Tell us something about your Music Director DSP.Sukumar: well, Devi and I think similarly. Even before I don’t complete narrating a situation, he comes up with a tune. I feel there I and Devi share a proper understanding that is required between a Director and a Music Director.AW: If given a chance, on which film of yours you want to re – work?Sukumar: it would be Aarya. My first film. When I compare my Direction, from then to now, I feel I have made a lot of mistakes in Aarya that I want to rectify.AW: Tell us one such hero in tollywood you want to work with?Sukumar: oh! Please don’t ask me this yaar. It’s very difficult to answer this question.AW: Ok Sir, do you want to tell anything to our AW’s readers?Sukumar: Well, if you do not watch 100% Love, then you are missing 100% of your life.
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Nag is Passionate on Multi-Starer Movies December 17, 2010 15:02
“We can say the style of a particular hero by watching couple of his movies. We can also expect as what kind of movie he will do in future. But our King and handsome hero Nagarjuna is beyond everyone’s expectations. He shows diversity in every movie he does. He is a romantic hero for youth and has most female fan following compared to any other hero. He is King for mass audiences. And like patent to roles like Annamayya and Sri Ramadasu. So finally he is a versatile actor always interested and daring to do something new and different. On his birthday this handsome Akkineni hero had a chat with us…When it comes to birthday, it reminds us the past one year and things we did? How was your year?Undoubtedly memorable. If I put my movies aside, my son’s movie ‘Ye Maaya Chesave’ has given me 100% satisfaction. I am happy that Naga Chaitanya has tasted his first success. Now he is busy working for couple of movies.Its obvious that Akhil’s cricket performance in Tollywood T20 has made you fly in cloud nine, rite?Ya it was fun filled moment for me. Everyone from the team has done very well. There is nothing special to mention about it. (Chuckling). But yes, I was very happy with Akhil’s performance. He is crazy about cricket and took special training for it.It looks you are busy with four films this year?Yes…my fourth movie would be ready for release till my next birthday. First ‘Gaganam’ will hit the screens. Later I am doing one movie under Veeru Potla’s direction and another one ‘Rajanna’ under the direction of Vijayendra Prasad. One with R.R.Movies banner and one multi-starrer bilingual with Tamil hero Ajith. So I am packed for this year.You have been doing only one movie for year, why did you accelerate?While I was doing only one movie for one year, it is taking more than a year to complete. Audience is getting bewildered and had to wait for my movie. On the other hand directors come to me saying that there are no dates of heroines. Then I had to wait. And suddenly one day the directors come and say that they’ve got dates of heroines and ask me to get ready for shooting. Everyone is behaving according to his or her own will. I did not like this. So I increased my number of movies in a year. Now everything is under control.Tell us about your current projects.'Gaganam' is a brand new thriller full of entertainment.The movie with Veeru Potla is a complete commercial film filled with action. And coming to ‘Rajanna’, it is fabulous script. The story is highly inspirational. S.S.Rajamouli would direct the action part of this film. And the movie with R.R.Movie Makers is highest budget film in my career. These four movies are completely different from one another.No matter what kind of movies you do…audience still wants to see you as a romantic hero.How is it possible? You can’t ask me to attend college holding some books in my hand. I accept only those roles, which justify my age. Then I will definitely romance happily.We heard you are making ways towards Tamil film industry?It is not a new thing happening. Basically I am fond of multi-starrer flicks. But there is no such atmosphere here. Meanwhile I have got Ajith’s movie and I couldn’t I resist doing it.Why are we not making multi-starrer movies?Well I am also unaware of the reason as why we are not making multi-starrer movies. I have been listening from media that there were no perfect scripts that could give scope to make multi-starrer flicks. Seriously, no actor has come forward to do a multi-starrer movie till date. If a couple of heroes come forward to do this kind of movies, and give their call sheets for a six months or one year, definitely there will be good stories coming.Akkineni trio has agreed to do multi-starrer with Krishna Vamsi. Is it your passion for multi-starrer that made you to accept project?You can take it in any way. But I believe that we are going to make a good movie. People often mistake that there will be fluctuations in the importance of the roles played by the heroes. There is nothing like that. We are going to act with my father. He never tolerate if there is any confusion in his role.As a senior hero, how do you review the present Telugu cinema market?Its in confusion. I never say that there are not good movies coming. A movie will be successful if you make it on only one particular hero. If you make the same kind of movie on another hero, it turns out to be a disaster. We feel it hard to run after the changing tastes of the present youth. 70% of the producers in our industry are not young. I guess it will take another 3 or 4 years for the situations to settle down.You have been No.1 in supporting new talents. To what extent they are utilizing their opportunities?Some are better utilizing, while some are making blunders. It is not their mistake. Basically the age is like that. They think that they are bosses for themselves. I too was same in my young age. I never used to obey my elders and seniors.Do you think piracy alone is responsible for film industry’s downfall?Not completely but yes there is lot of loss due to piracy. Piracy is not allowing audience to visit theatres more than one time. They prefer to watch it at home than in theatre. It is the reason we are releasing a movie with a huge number of prints. The movie is said to be successful if it gets huge collections in the first week of its release.Producers are struggling to cut down the production costs. Do you think it is possible?We must make it possible, if not there will be threat to our survival.If a reel of 10 minutes story goes waste, then there will be a loss of absolutely one crore. We have to have a perfect strategy before hitting locations i opine.
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RamGopalVarma on KSD February 16, 2011 16:17
You can’t generalize the audience: RGVRam Gopal Varma on KSD : Appalraju is at his usual best – smart, funny and whacky at the same time. His next film, Katha Screenplay Darsakathvam: Appalaraju is going to release on February 18. Earlier today he interacted with the media where he spoke a lot about his film, the way he works and why you can’t make films for everyone. Here are some excerpts from the interview.We hear that KSD Appalaraju is a satire on how film industry functions, but it’s in a way the absolute truth of how the industry functions, isn’t it?I wouldn’t say it’s a satire. You can call it a situational comedy, but even then, all the characters are serious in their own way. Everyone has their own agenda here. The point of view of each character is as real as Appalaraju and they are all right in their own way. And I am not taking sides with Appalaraju either. You can’t find fault with a producer who believes that a commercial element will work in favour of the film at box office.Do films usually turn out the way you want them to? Or do you let them take their own course??It works in two ways. A film is a series of decisions that you take over a long period of time. And right from the time when an idea strikes you till the product is complete, you don’t know how it’s going to turn out. Usually, the director is the last person to know all this because he’s involved in everything. All we can do is to just go by the instincts.You shoot your films really fast!I don’t shoot films fast; it’s others who are so slow. If you look at cinema all over the world, we (Telugu filmmakers) take the maximum time to shoot a film. Even a film like Gladiator was shot in 42 days.Do the actors have time to experiment at all when they try to adjust to your speed?Actors are always ready. If there’s any delay, it’s usually the cameraman, because he has to position the camera at appropriate angles, change lenses etc. And second could be because the director has no clarity of what he wants to do or maybe the script isn’t ready. But typically, it’s the cameraman.You keep coming up with a new idea every other day. Do you keep a track of what you areworking on? Are you very impulsive by nature?I keep thinking all the time. If I think of 50-60 ideas, you actually get to know only 2-3 of them. But then, I have to see what the practical problems are, if the project is viable or not before I take it forward. In case of Dongala Mutha, I got the idea one afternoon at 4:00 PM and I called by Ravi Teja at 5:30 and by 6:30 PM we were ready to announce the film!Emotional drama Vs Technology – how do you balance the two?Technology has got nothing to do with content of the film. It can only help you in narrating your stories, but it can’t enhance your content. Whichever way you look at it, they are two different functions. Technology can only help you to cut down on time and finances. For my next film I’m using five Cannon 5D digital cinema cameras to cut down the production costs. It’s easy to manoeuvre because of itscompact nature and we completely shot it in natural light in the regular shifts.You have never bothered about criticism. Will you be surprised if someone comes up to you to tell that he absolutely loved your film? In a way, you are not making films for people. Do you expect them to like what you do?You can’t generalize the audience. They are all so different in their own ways! For example, I have no idea what sort of films you like. The only thing I can do is to make the kind of films I like, which is what I mean when I say, “I make films for myself”! Now, out of desperation I can claim that I’m making a film which the entire family can watch. How can you make a film for the entire family? That’s the biggest joke in the world! But what actually happens is that, the husband would be ogling at the heroine, the mother would love the heroine’s saris; perhaps the kids would be so bored that they would end up cribbing about the whole film! There’s no concept of families, all are individuals. To each their own!What are your future projects?After Dongala Mutha, I’m starting Bezawada Rowdilu in March. And then I’ll start my bilingual film Department with Amitabh Bachchan, Abhishekh Bachchan and Sanjay Dutt in May. Perhaps in August, I will start my action-adventure, visual effects loaded film ‘Amma’. It’s based on a treasure hunt.
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Hero Surya's Raktha Charitra Interview November 29, 2010 12:27
Surya will make his Hindi film debut with Ram Gopal Varma’s Raktha Charitra, which also stars Vivek Oberoi. At the launch function, Surya thanked Aamir Khan for making him famous in Mumbai after playing his role in the Hindi blockbuster Ghajini.Rakht Charitra, inspired from real life gangster Paritala Ravi (played by Vivek Oberoi), who was assassinated in January 2005, by a death squad allegedly put together by his arch rival Suri (played by Surya).Suriya shared his part about the film.You are now in star in kollywood, how do you about entry into Bollywood ?It is a big platform. There are legends here. Indian cinema has always been referred to as Bollywood. Even though I am comfortable in the south, I hope to be accepted here. This is a new beginning for me. I would like people to like what I have done in Raktha Charitra and accept me.Why did you agree to debut in Bollywood with this film?Entering Bollywood was never my dream so I didn’t think too much of what my Hindi launch film should be. I have always asked Ramu sir to do a Tamil film. He refused saying he didn’t know the language and directing a Tamil film wouldn’t be possible.But when he narrated this script to me, I wanted to be a part of it. I was sure I wouldn’t get this chance again. And like I wanted, I’m taking Ramu down south with me — I am doing the same film in Tamil and Telugu.This is a good film to start my Bollywood innings. I have always believed in the characters I play, be it Kaakha Kaakha, Nandha or Ghajini. These films have been character-driven. I followed the same for Rakhta Charitra.There have been actors before, who failed to make a mark in Bollywood. Are you apprehensive?I am not quitting south cinema. I have done Rakhta Charitra only to try my hand at a different role. I am not looking at two Hindi releases every year. But I would love to do more Hindi films so I hope people accept me here.I cannot comment on actors who haven’t done well here. But actresses have been able to do well here. I guess they are smarter than men!Honestly, I don’t think actors push themselves to be a part of Bollywood. I haven’t seen anyone who has tried their best. It is just timepass or they do a film with a director they want to work with, and then return to their comfort zone.How did you prepare for the role, and overcome the language barrier?I just followed Ramu sir’s brief. I didn’t have to sit in a jail to prepare for the character.As far as the language goes, I used to run away from Hindi in school. I should thank our associate director Sahil, who helped me with my dialogues. He used to record my dialogues and I would listen to it the whole night before the shoot.The advantage was that we started with the Tamil version first and then did the Hindi and Telugu versions. So that made my life easy.What was the toughest scene?There’s a scene when I’m in jail. I have to tell my jail inmates that I saw my mother being cut into two, I saw my sister being burnt and could recognise her only by her necklace, I couldn’t even find my brother because he was scattered all over the place. Since all this has happened in real life, I kept wondering what this person must have gone through, what his mindset would have been and how he lived with all these memories.How was it working with Ram Gopal Varma?He is a very level headed person. I haven’t seen anyone clearer in his head. Even as actors, we ask for another take. But he knows what he wants. He has great knowledge of technology, camera and character-shaping.No one can be like him. No one can copy him, repeat his work or work like him. He has an amazing personality. I learnt a lot about cinema while working with him. You can ask him anything about cinema and he will have an answer.How was it working with Vivek Oberoi?We don’t have many scenes together — just one scene in the first part. It was amazing working with him. I had met him during the Tamil remake of Yuva. I played Ajay Devgn sir’s character in the Tamil film.What do you like best about Bollywood?The aesthetics, and the actors. I am eagerly waiting to see Dabangg. I loved the promos and Salman sir’s performance. I haven’t watched Peepli Live yet but I loved the promos.Seems you met Shah Rukh Khan?I have done ads with him.I have taken his autograph. (My wife) Jyothika is big fan. He spoke to her and her friends. He is very nice, humble and simple.Your film Kaaka Khaaka is being remade in Hindi. Did you want to be a part of it?I wish. But the rights have been sold. I am glad that my good friend John Abraham is playing the role.What next?My next Tamil film is Ezhaam Arivu (Seventh Sense) with A Murgadoss.Copyright 2010 www.kolly-theater.com. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, or redistributed.
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Nandamuri Kalyan Ram Interview November 17, 2010 18:24
Kalyan Ram Nandamuri is known for variety and out-of-box thinking when it come to his movies. He succeeded in big way with Athanokkade movie and realised how he can create his own space in film industry. He is doing commercial yet different movies. His latest film Kathi is all set to release on 12 November. Here are the excerpts of an exclusive interview with Kalyam Ram Nandamuri -How did Kathi movie happen?I listened to the basic story in 2008 and okayed it. Meanwhile, Jayeebhava script got ready and we went ahead with that movie. Kathi is a sister-sentiment movie with ample action orientation.We had seen umpteen sister-senti films in the past. How different is Kathi going to be?I was also having the same doubt when story writer Vakkantham Vamsi came to narrate the story. Though it is a sister sentiment film, it will have a different angle to the main conflict point.What do you think has gone wrong with your earlier movie Jayeebhava?Jayeebhava is a template movie where the subject is same and hero is changed. I learnt two things after doing Jayeebhava. The first thing is that people expect something different when they come to watch my films. They doesn’t want me to do template movies. The second one is the orientation. After watching first half of the movie, the audiences expected high voltage action in the second half and couldn't appreciate the comedy-orientation in the second half. I don’t want to do any template movies in the future. I want to make sure that there is some thing different in my movie compared to other movies. The success of films like Athanokkade and Hareram vouch for it.Tell us about your role in Kathi?I am playing the character of Rama Krishna who is a football player. His goal is to play for the nation. He loves his joint family members and cares for them. The entire first half of the movie is jovial. His sister gets married and go to Rayalaseema. An unexpected twist of the tale forces Rama Krishna to travel to Rayalaseema and solve the problem his sister has got herself into unintentionally. The conflict point is neither dowry nor in-laws ego (which we usually see in sister sentiment films).Why did you title the movie as Kathi?Rama Krishna walks on razor edge situation in the entire second half. That is the reason why we titled it like that. Rama Krishna is also like Kathi (sword). A sword can be used for constructive and destructive purposes. When somebody tampers with his family members, Rama Krishna shows the destructive side of his sword.Tell us about the other characters in the movie?Saranya Mohan's character forms the base for the entire story. Shyam plays her husband. Sana Khan plays an important role of heroine in the movie. There is a small twist to her character. Ajay looks menacing in his negative role. Kota plays the positive role of father of Shyam.Tell us about the technical departments?Vakkantham Vamsi came with a good script which explores a different angle to sister-senti conflict point. M Ratnam penned dialogues for the movie. I have spoken most difficult and powerful dialogues in the movie. Ratnam’s dialogues took the story to next level. Sarvesh Murari did a fabulous job as cinematographer as the movie is going be a visual feast. He has also took a special interest in my make-up. I have a different get-up in the second half with toned body, dark circles around eyes, unshaven beard, shabby hair etc. Editor Gowtam Raju did a sustained editing as demanded by the subject.Tell us about the action sequences. The trailer gives a glimpse of well-choreographed action episodes?The action sequences in Athanokkade movie have got tremendous recognition because we wanted the fights to be believable at the same time shocking. I want my films to be different in terms of action sequences. If you look at the making trailer of Kathi, you will see a rotating vehicle which has a vehicle each going on the top and bottom of it. We have also shown how we did it in the making video. When I asked for the equipment to get that shot done from Mumbai, they quoted me a bomb. I sat down and used common sense and little bit of engineering. I went to city outskirts where they make body to the chassis of lorries. I observed it for 15 days about how they did it. I hired the right guy from there and made the equipment indigenously. It cost me 1/10th of what Mumbai guys charged to hire. A lot of thinking from ‘NTR Arts’ team has gone into action episodes of the movie. Audiences should be thrilled by watching action episodes.Mallikharjun directed your film Abhimanyu long back and now you gave him another opportunity with Kathi?Mallikharjun is a good commercial director. Though Abhimanyu failed to take off at box office, I firmly believe that Mallikharjun is a good director. He knows the pulse of commercial movies. He has clarity of what he is doing and he did an excellent work in Kathi movie. All he needed was a good support from the producer and we provided him with all the necessary inventory.How many days did you shoot the movie for?Kathi film was completed in 80 working days. Industry people didn’t believe that we finished the movie so soon despite having grand action episodes. The budget went little over because we didn’t want to compromise. The final runtime of the movie is 2 hours and 13 minutes.What can Telugu movie lovers can expect from Kathi?Kathi is a family-oriented movie. The sentiment scenes will be loved by female crowds. There are interesting action episodes in the second half. There is good entertainment as well. Please don’t miss the beginning of the movie. The climax fight of the movie has intelligence in it. Kathi will offer action, entertainment and sentiment.After looking at promos of Kathi, fans are expecting you to deliver another Simha?Let me put it straight. Simha is the portrayal of larger-than-life character which extraordinarily done by NBK babai. Films like Simha demand such kind of action episodes. Kathi is the portrayal of a boy-next-door who is caught up with a situation where there is no point of return. Hence the orientation should be different. Please watch Kathi with a fresh mind.What is your next movie?I am listening to various scripts. Will let you know once it is finalized.
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First love is Acting 2nd Direction November 04, 2010 16:30
Allari Naresh is an Indian film actor who stars in Tollywood films. He is the son of Telugu veteran director and producer EVV Satyanarayana. He got the tag Allari before his name after the success of his first film. "Allari" was a pursuit or you had interest to come into this film domain?To go with facts…I really have interest to make into this domain. I undertook acting course for around two and half years. "Allari" must have been done two years back…Ravi (Allari Director) and me are friends…the project got delayed, as there were no producers who approved the movie theme. In fact many have interests to take movies revolving and centering youth love. In the last the movie was done through "Suresh Productions".Your interest for film domain…was it from your childhood or covered your way in recent past?I am passionate about movies since childhood. My attendance to sets was much when judged against with school. I was free with everyone. I admire and adore this field very much. I couldn't accept anyone speaking low about any person belonging to film field - any editor, director…or anyone else.Your dad, E.V.V., is a renowned director. Did you ever think of making a debut in direction?My first love is acting and the next is direction. I am also interested in direction. I have to undergo and work under a director for some time to get to know least about the profession. This makes me get acquainted to any one particular style of the director I worked with…variety will be a rare chance. As an actor, I now have chance to work under many directors. I can now get an opportunity to observe many directors work. This field requires individuality and innovation much. I can later on bring up my own style.Can you say us briefly about your educational profile?I have completed Bachelors of Commerce in Foreign Trade.You received publicity only when the picture was about to be released to the theatres. Is there any specific reason for that?We have introduced Rajesh at the beginning of the year. We have given him enough publicity. Dad wanted to introduce me at the end of the year as Rajesh is being introduced at the beginning. "Allari" was started suddenly and Ravi Babu approached dad. Dad wanted to give a good publicity to me too. But as that was a low budget film, Ravi Babu explained to dad that he couldn't give me enough publicity. So there was no publicity at all at the beginning. I would be glad if people know me as me rather than son of a famous director. That would be me working hard for the movie and dad gets credit to all (He Laughs…). Anyway dad was busy shooting for "Hai" when I was doing for Allari. We shouldn't keep expectations on any movie. Sometimes audience won't receive even good movies.Got any Suggestions from dad….When working for "Allari", dad said me to listen to director and go accordingly. He said me not to involve into the direction while acting.What do you like in Ravi Babu?His direction is very sensible and fashionable. He doesn't prolong story and dialogues. A 100 word line condensed into 1 single word…this is Ravi's style. Ravi also handles camera. Even close ups were not taken stand still. He finished the film as an ad format. It was like working for a Hollywood production.How did you face the camera for the first time?I was confident enough for the first shot. They have given few dialogues to say. I have done the job and everyone there appreciated. But I felt I have done some memorization. I wasn't satisfied. At the same moment, many directors and producers said I am not fit for movies and suggested me to continue my studies. I made the negative points positive and proceeded. I was bit nervous though when on the first day there were many people around me. I thought not to take many shots for a scene.What were your feelings after you have seen "Allari"?Allari was a comedy film made for many range of audience. But few people made around that the movie is not good watch for females and children. Lately, everyone equally enjoyed the film and its comedy.What are your most liked scenes in "Allari"?"Pant Vesukoni Chokkaveskobothunte Maa Nanna Pilichadani Vachha" - a scene with this dialogue. And the other one is "Nenu ee intlo undanu…vellipothanu" - a scene at the end of the movie when Kota would beat me in a room. I enjoy these scenes when I watch the movie.How many times did you watch the movie?I saw "Allari" for four times.Seems you are choosing characters that have comedy touch….A person who can do comedy can do any type of film and can fix well in any character. Most of the films go with comedy. "Dhana Laxmi I Love You" is a remake of "Hera - Pheri"…you can think my character as a comedy villain in that. In "Thotti Gang", I react mostly to unusual things and keep cool to regular happenings. This character is enjoyable.You are acting in your dad's direction for the first time. What are your feelings about this?I am very happy for this. Though I have revered fear towards him. He always thinks as a director. When mom approached him to include me for "Thotti Gang"…he thought much about it and accepted. He never gave me a faintest chance as a son…I even felt for this. I was very much afraid if dad would tell off me in front of everyone if I do anything wrong I shoots. But I too agree with him and I feel that would help us to make the shot complete. I freely discuss with dad any issue regarding work. He is a very principled man. When I am done with work and just chatting around…he would always suggest me to prepare for the next scene. I am very much excited to work with dad. He never compromises for anything and explains me everything. He suggests me to do the scenes more perfectly. In Ravi's direction…he asks me to repeat the scenes directly. Even director Shiva Nageshwar Rao too.How are you enjoying "Shiva Nageshwar Rao's direction?Well…he has a small tendency. I don't know whether that's good or bad. But whenever the dialogue has to be delivered with more perfection, he always told me some jokes to divert the topic and then later on asked the moral out of it. He wanted me to implement the moral into the dialogue delivery tone. How ever serious the topic might be…he has ability to divert it fully and make people laugh. I am enjoying a lot in his direction."Allari" was a hit…but "Hai" by Rajesh has not faired well. Hit/Flop took place in the same house. How your family reacted about this?"Allari" was released first. That was a hit and we all were happy with the release. We never were concerned for "Hai" failure. Hits/Flops are part and parcel of goings. If this movie flops, the next movie will sure be a hit and vice versa. Everyone appreciated Rajesh's action, performance as well as his dialogues. The picture might have failed because of poor story base. Our mother has encouraged Rajesh and has given enough support to him. One has to face both sides of the cine world before establishing in the field.Can we expect Rajesh's and your duo on screen?That may likely to happen next year.How is your mother's support and encouragement to you?Mostly moms are bit problematic when compared to dads. In my family, my mother encourages us most. I had 11 pages dialogues to perform when I was in theatres. My mother used to explain me the essence of the historic words in the script. She had enough patience to sit with me and explicate the dialogues. Mom values this profession.What were your friend's comments on your first movie?We watched the movie on the first show of the release. From then on they started teasing me and commenting upon me. After seeing the entire movie…they appreciated my acting…that created for me a good image. My friends appreciated me for the first time.Any happenings that made your mood bright with joy…We were shooting for "Dhana Laxmi I Love You". A school bus was moving beside the shoot…and all of a sudden the children began calling my name and rejoicing with songs in "Allari". We all turned our heads to see them make a traffic jam and come running to me. They were with me for around 10 minutes. And there was water in my eyes…I was moved by the scene…I was then asked by one of the team members of the shoot for why I was crying…I never knew that I had water in my eyes till then. That's the most happiest moment in my life…very memorable…A director you are…. would you like to produce for movies in future?I should say that’s always better for a director to have his own banner. I would definitely like to produce movies and this may likely to happen in future. That’s a great difficulty to manage and please others. When I have confidence in the story, producing the same when no body is set to do helps me to get the complete essence from the story base…Any moments when you felt uncomfortable or uneasy…I never felt mentally uneasy. There was a problem though for shooting "Allari" in the last scene. I was badly hurt at the back while I was running behind the train because of few objects placed there. We completed the scene.Your most favored performers…I am fond of Telugu actors. Chiru's dancing, Nagarjuna's dressing, Rajashekar's face expressions, Venky's pleasantry wit and comedy, Mohan Babu's dialogue delivery, Venu's dialogue talks…I love them all. When comes to today's young heroes…I like Jr. N.T.R., Tarun…I like almost all of them…I am fond of Sharukh and Amir khan in Bollywood.Your leisure pursuits…I love watching movies. I see almost all Telugu, Hindi, Tamil, English movies. I hear music with soft melodies to fast beats.What type of feedback you received through industry people after "Allari"?I received calls of approval for my performance. I heard my dad talk to Chiranjeevi…he didn't see my movie though. But he said his son saw "Allari" and appreciated it...Are you naughty and playful when at home?Mischievous, frivolous and perky…most suitable adjectives to describe me. Though bit short tempered…I mix among people without any tugs. I am naughty always. And that would be the servants who have to bear me when no one at home.Your Date of Birth…June 30, 1980.
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