Vijayaprasad, who did exceptionally well with his last release Neerdose, is nearly done with the preparation for his next project.
The director, who is known for innovative casting, has this time picked Ravishankar Gowda to play the lead in the yet-to-be-titled film. The actor, who has played a hero in few films, is usually considered for character roles.
The actor and director have known each other since the popular serial Silli Lalli Days, and Vijayaprasad has always known Ravishankar’s potentional. We hear that he was very particular about casting the actor and even placed it as the first condition to the producers of the film.
“When the actor will appear on screen, he will not be Ravishankar Gowda but Ere Gowda... he suits that role,” says Vijayaprasad. “The heroine will not be known by her real name but as Shakila Banu. I believe in casting for characters and not as hero, heroine, comedians and supporting cast. Casting directors are rare these days and whoever are around don’t understand the importance of each role. So I make sure to cast the right people.”
The title of the movie is now being finalised and the film will roll out from April. Made under Yogaraj Bhat movies, the movie is being produced by Sudhir and Sanath. The film has music by Anoop Seelin and cinematography by Sugnaan, and at the editing desk will be by Suresh Urs.
‘Silli Lalli Introduced Us to Each Other’s Humour’
Ravishankar is overwhelmed that Vijayaprasad has considered him for a lead role and says it is a big move in his career. “The chemistry we shared as actor and director during the making of Silli Lalli may have helped Vijayaprasad gauge my comic timing and vice-versa... I get his humour and know how he brings it onscreen,” says the actor.
The actor recalls his initial days and the struggle. “I did not have the opportunity to work under directors such as Vijayaprasad,” he says. “Fortunately, I now have this opportunity.”
Everyone wants a star and character artistes are rarely given lead role, says the actor. “The problem is that even after having done so many movies, I haven’t had a hit to show. When a film flops, the actor’s chances are also affected. That’s when the struggle begins,” he says. “Then there is happiness when someone like Vijayaprasad recognises talent and casts us... I am very grateful to him. He believes that the story is the winner and he chose me because I fit into his script.”
The actor is now preparing for the role, working on a fitness regime and a diet plan for the last one week. “I am just following the director’s instructions,” he says. “I am confident that our coming together will give the audience full-on entertainment.”
‘Tough to Get a Heroine who Weighs 120 kg’ The director’s heroine will need to do intimate scenes and gain tons of kilos to fit into this role. “I have been approaching many artistes but all fear putting on weight for the character and they are hesitant to do any intimate scene that may include passionate kissing,” he says. “My story revolves around an over-sized woman and if she will find love.”
The director says, “There are actresses such as Anushka Shetty, Vidya Balan and few others who go the extra mile for their character, but I do not find such heroines in Kannada. We are ready to give them the necessary payment and we will also find them guidance from various dieticians and physicians. But, they should take that first step.”
Meanwhile Vijayaprasad has also tried to reach out to Vidya Balan and Huma Qureshi, who had expressed interest in being part of south Indian movies and in doing unique roles. “We have just managed to get through to them, the talks are in the initial stage,” he says. “I can’t confirm anything... there is some interest shown, but we are yet to get a reply.”