Santhu Straight Forward is all set for a Deepavali release. The movie is impressive because two established men have come together, without making much of a noise, for a project they are passionate about.
Director Mahesh Rao, actor Yash and team contributed to the film’s quick completion, in just six months. They had initially planned to remake the Tamil film, Vaalu, but later came up with an original script.
“We shot for 110 days and, because of quick and organised post-production work, we were able to complete the film in time. We decided to drop the idea of remaking Vaalu and come up with an original because of Yash's current star status. When the producer came with the remake idea, I felt that the character of the subject will not suit Yash,” says Mahesh, who adds that it was important to consider whether the character matches the hero or the heroine.
“I have known Yash and Radhika Pandit for many years now, and so it was easy for me to build rapport with the two and convince them that the characters suited them. So the shooting experience was wonderful. I believe that this film will be refreshingly new for Kannada industry,” says Mahesh, who has directed films like Case No 18/9, Endendigu Ninagagi, Kwatle Satisha, among others.
The director is excited to work with the actor, who is a superstar. But, Mahesh is quick to point out, Yash has always been grounded and was never taken in by all the glamour.
“This film has given me a deserved break in my directorial career and it was possible because of Yash, Dr Suri and K Manju. Yash has known me for the last 12 years and he was waiting for the right script. Based on my writing skills, he allowed me to helm the film. It was a project given to me after considering my capabilities. He has taken care of me in all ways while doing this project,” says Mahesh.
The director adds that he could not have imagined Santhu Straight Forward without Yash. “This was one script I wrote keeping him in mind and it has worked. I was able to create a character closely related to him in real life, adding of course cinematic dashes. Santhu is very special for Yash and rest of the star cast. I was fortunate to have an excellent cameraman, I Andrew, and music director, V Harikrishna,” he says, revealing that the film has around 13 villains.
“While nine come in songs, the others come in parts. Why so many villains were required is something to watch on screen,” he says.
The director also says that while the film was on a fast track, he could not spend enough time with his wife, who was pregnant with their second child.
“I am glad to be blessed with a supportive wife who managed the situation all by herself. Today, I am blessed with two wonderful little girls,” he says.