'Katha Kanchiki Manam Intiki' is a horror-comedy starring Thrigun (previously known as Adith Arun) and Pujitha Ponnada in the lead. Mahesh Manjrekar, Vinod Kumar, Shyamala, RJ Hemanth, Getup Srinu and others are part of the cast. The film is all set to hit the cinemas on April 8.
In this interview, the 'Dear Megha' and 'PSV Garuda Vega' actor talks about the film, his future projects and more.
I am happy that my film is getting a theatrical release during the pandemic. The pre-release business deals have been encouraging. When I scored a hit with an adult comedy (read 'Cheekati Gadilo Chitakkottudu'), people said I resorted to the low-hanging fruit of a sex comedy. I wanted to do a clean horror-comedy that can be watched with the family audience. And that's what the April 8th release is about.
Thrigun is the name of Lord Shiva. I believe in luck. My mother, too, wanted me to keep a name denoting Shiva. I bagged my debut movie 'Katha' purely because of luck. But it took many years of hard work and perseverance for another notable movie to happen to me.
My father was a bank employee when I debuted with 'Katha'. I was too young at that time. I received support from my parents and others at a young age. Slowly, I realized that I need to bide my time before starting a new phase.
There have been a number of horror-comedies. True that. But it's also true that the same dish can be done differently by a chef. 'Katha Kanchiki Manam Intiki' has got an X-factor that the audience will surely love. Director Chanakya Chinna comes with vast experience. We have seen movies like 'Ammoru' and 'Kanchana'. 'Katha Kanchiki Manam Intiki' is a rooted film whose writers know nativity, the right language... That makes a lot of difference. The climax has been shot on a big scale. It would have needed Rs 2 Cr had the director not been careful. Our director wrapped up the shoot within the planned budget.
Bheems Ceciroleo's music has a 'naatu' factor. The viewing experience has been elevated by his sound. We haven't promoted the movie wildly. Content will speak for itself. Take the example of 'The Kashmir Files'.
I have been shooting for movies continuously for the past 2 years. I have also toned up. Even when I took the plunge into acting, I had to sacrifice a lot of pleasures and recreational indulgences. We recently hosted a show for 25 people in our circles and we are very happy with their response. They really liked the film.
I am inspired by Aamir Khan when it comes to doing promotions. During 'Rangeela', he went out of the way to promote the movie. I like to give my best shot at promotions.
I have got a market on OTT as well. I did 'WWW' (SonyLIV) because the subject was good and the producer had the budget. It's a unique film. It worked in terms of reception. The producer made profits. The idea is to make content that stands out. After 'Pushpa' (and 'RRR'), all eyes are on the Telugu film industry. Today, Tollywoodians command a lot of respect everywhere.
Art and cinema go beyond everydayness by definition. There are only a few people who make hardcore filmmaking.
I am doing an actioner in the direction of RGV garu. The film is 'Kondaa'. After a gap, RGV garu has put in laborious work given the nature of the film. I have done two web series. Both of them are hits. '11th Hour' with AHA and Tamannaah Bhatia went well. I will be doing another web series this year.
I come from a theatre background. I am used to working with a bunch of people on a daily basis. There is no choice. You have to get along with people.
I am in talks for an important star vehicle. If it goes through, it would be my biggest project since 'PSV Garuda Vega'. You will know once it is confirmed.
I personally like Satyadev Kancharana's acting talent. I would like to do a film with him.
'Kondaa' will release in May. I and Megha Akash are doing a film titled 'Prema Desam'. Its shoot has been completed. I am also doing a Telugu-Tamil bilingual. It's a very interesting project. 'Work From Home' is another project in the pipeline.
