Producer Abhishek Agarwal awaits the release of 'Tiger Nageswara Rao' on October 20. In this interview, the AA Arts supremo is supremely confident that the Ravi Teja-starrer will be a top-tier BO candidate.
Saying that the biographical action thriller was completed within the planned budget, Agarwal lauds Mass Maharaja's dedication. "This film has been promoted as a proper pan-India flick, with promotions in Mumbai for the Hindi version. 'TNR' is my dream project. It is the closest to my heart," the producer says, adding that Renu Desai's character will remain etched in the audience's memory forever.
'Tiger Nageswara Rao' is an unconventional biopic because it is about a thief, not a leader or a sportsperson. The rationale behind doing Rao's biopic will become clear once you watch the movie. There was a reason behind why he became a thief in the first place.
We sought the permission of Rao's family before making this biopic. We have stayed true to what has been documented on record or relayed orally about Rao. To the maximum extent, 'TNR' is a realistic film. At the same time, we have made some choices in the interest of creative liberty.
Since this is Dasara season, competition is only to be expected. As far as I am concerned, I am pretty confident. I have no regrets about the release date. I am 200% confident that the 'word of mouth' will be great. The run time of 174 minutes has also been taken as a consensual decision. I will stick to this word even after the reviews come out. There are no issues with theatres allocation as well.
I don't compromise on budgetary allocation come what may. Otherwise, the quality would be compromised and I wouldn't have done justice to the script. If I compromise, the technicians too will have to. The art department wouldn't get what it expects. So on and so forth.
It is true that director Vamsee has previously done only small films. This is his first pan-Indian movie. I trusted his calibre. Wait for the film to release to know what he is capable of.
Anupam Kher has always been supportive. He has been there with us since 'The Kashmir Files'. Music director GV Prakash Kumar has given his 200% despite being a busy man. He treated this biopic as a special project.
Terms like 'pan-India' and 'south India' have become irrelevant in today's times. Movies are garnering the love of everyone if the content is great.
I will also be producing 'The Delhi Files' with Vivek Agnihotri. I had tears in my eyes as my director collected the National Award yesterday for 'The Kashmir Files'.
We at AA Arts want to tell untold stories while being conscious of our Dharma and country. We have many unsung heroes whose stories need to be told to the present generation. 'The India House' with Nikhil Siddhartha is a vast subject with a big canvas. I am going to announce a new biopic soon. At first, it will be seen as a strange choice. It will surprise the audience.
I have never made agenda-based cinema. I am all for Dharma and India. It has nothing to do with any political party.
