Despite a few critics calling ‘Oosaravelli’ just another action flick, the film has done well at the BO. Director Surender Reddy speaks about what he dared to do, his conviction in the film and more.
“Even before the film was released, we knew it would do well. We had planned it that Way. I am glad that it turned out the same,” Surender says when asked about the mixed reviews for ‘Oosaravelli’. Shying away from experiments in film-making is alien to him. He dreams of tapping the international potential of Telugu films and wants to create a niche for Telugu films globally.
How was it to work with Jr NTR?
Working with Jr NTR has been amazing. He brings in a lot of energy to the sets and is active throughout. Working with him is fun. The film does not have the presence of the hero for nearly 15 minutes in between. Tarak was very supportive. He asked me not to worry about it and said the story was more important, and since the film had a strong story, it would work.
As a director, how have you evolved over the five films that you’ve made?
When I started, all I thought about was direction. I realised that it was important to coordinate with the production and business aspects of it as well. With each passing film, I learned the business of films along with the art of direction.
Your very first film in 2005 ‘Athanokkade’ won an award. What do you think are the challenges before debutantes in the industry?
It is very important these days to make it big in the first film. There are, of course, cases where people have done well after the first few flops. But, it helps to make a mark and catch the attention of the audience in the first film as there are so many other seniors in the industry whom the audience already recognizes.
Most of what your films were action entertainers. Are you planning to explore other genres?
My film ‘Kick’ was pure comedy. Yes, I like action, romance films. I believe that is what makes for entertainment. My projects in the offing will revolve around these themes. For me, film is grandeur. I try to experiment and bring in new elements of narration and technique in each film. Any new technology, I am the first to be willing to implement it.
What are the kinds of films Telugu audience want?
Entertainment. It works well with them.
Can you think of any recent film which you wish you had made?
‘Arundhati’. I love its narration and the techniques used. That is the kind of film which strikes a chord with me.
After films with Kalyan Ram, Mahesh Babu, Jr NTR, whom do you want to cast next?
I am looking forward to working with Pawan Kalyan.
Which are the other films you are working on right now?
I’m working on two films under RR banner, as of now I cannot say more about these films.