The return of megastar Chiranjeevi to the silver screen after eight years, albeit in a cameo role, has become the biggest selling point for the makers of upcoming Ram Charan Bruce Lee.
Addressing the media for the first time about Bruce Lee, Sreenu Vaitla the film’s director could not contain his excitement about roping in Chiranjeevi for a special appearance. While giving nothing away about what his role is going to be, Vaitla says it will be a pleasant ‘surprise’ for the audience.
“The fact that Chiranjeevi has given his consent to do the cameo speaks volumes about the importance of the character. I wouldn’t dare to approach him for just another run-of-the-mill cameo appearance,” said an excited Vaitla.
Ever since the actor-turned-politician announced that he will make a cameo appearance in Bruce Lee, speculation has been rife about the length of role and whether it would entail an item song or action sequences. Vaitla, however, was tight-lipped. With Chiranjeevi set to begin his shoot on September 27 after a long hiatus, many wonder if the 60-year-old is in shape to cope with the demands of the silver screen.
Allaying all such fears, Vaitla, said, “He is very fit and is maintaining it. He will shoot for us on September 26, 27 and 28. It’s definitely very exciting for us.”
The title Bruce Lee suggests a biopic or a tribute to legendary Chinese actor and martial artist Bruce Lee. Vaitla, while denying all such theory, says that his inspiration is there in the film.
“The lead protagonist (Ram Charan) is a fan of Bruce Lee. The film tells the story of an ordinary man who finds himself with an extraordinary problem. It’s a family, action entertainer,” the filmmaker explained.
Though Chiranjeevi’s cameo has raised expectations to another level, Vaitla says Bruce Lee is Ram Charan’s movie through and through.
“He has many shades to his character and he has done a truly remarkable. The audience will witness a new side to Ram Charan in this film,” gushed the Dookudu director.
Vaitla, who is known for films like Dhee, Ready and Baadshah, has often been criticised for sticking to the same formula of large family dramas intertwined with comedy, dance and fight sequences.
A special teaser of Bruce Lee, which was unveiled on Pawan Kalyan’s birthday, suggested that this film may also follow a similar cliched pattern. Vaitla, however, clarified that Bruce Lee deviates from his typical formula.
“It’s going to be different from the films I have made in the past. I don’t know if there is a formula or not but what I can promise is entertainment. I believe the key for any film is entertainment and Bruce Lee has it in abundance,” he added.
Produced by DVV Danayya, Bruce Lee also features Rakul Preet Singh and is slated for a Dasara release on October 16.