Natasimha Nandamuri Balakrishna-Trisha-Radhika Apte starrer huge budget action entertainer ‘Lion’ has completed all formalities including censor and is all set to hit screens worldwide on May 14, Thursday at 9:36 AM. Prominent producer Rudrapati Ramana Rao is producing this action packed entertainer under SLV Cinema banner with Jivvaji Ramanjaneyulu as presenter and Rudrapati Premalatha as production manager. A new director Satyadeva is being introduced as director through this film. On this occasion, an interview has been given by Producer Rudrapati Ramana Rao. Here are the few excerpts from his interview.
Tell us about the film ‘Lion’.
‘Lion’ will impress Telugu audience and Nandamuri fans. You will see different side of Nandamuri Balakrishna’s acting skills. First half of the film goes on in a family entertaining and comedy mode and the second half will be a massive with action.
How did you choose the title ‘Lion’?
There are two reasons to choose this title. The one is Balakrishna garu and the other is 46 thousand Lion Clubs. They are serving the people worldwide. Balakrishna is serving as Hindupur MLA and as a Chairman of Basavatarakamma Cancer Hospital.
Is there any particular reason to do such a different film with Balakrishna?
I’m a big fan of Balakrishna. I’ve been wanting to make films like ‘Samarasimha Reddy’ and ‘Narasimha Naidu’ with Balakrishna. I’ve approached Balakrishna with some other director. But, he said that he has done many films of such type and said about his plans to act in different film. During the time, I was very impressed by the script narrated by Satyadev and I immediately narrated it to Balakrishna. He too impressed with the story and given green sinal.
As a Producer, which elements impressed you in the script?
The entire script itself is different. Usually, by watching some scenes in films, it remind us some other film. But, each and every scene in ‘Lion’ will be very different.
Tell us about Satyadev’s direction?
At first I was dubious on Satyadev as he is new. But, his taking is superb. Balakrishna’s look is very different in the film ‘Simha’. Likewise, his look is different in this too.
We would like to hear from you about the audience’s response for the audio?
Previously, many musical hits were delivered in the combination of Balakrishna and Mani Sharma. The response for this audio is also as good as those. Especially, the first song is on Lord Krishna. Second is the teasing song on Thrisha. All four songs are receiving tremendous response.
About Balakrishna’s character in the film, Rudrapati Rama Rao described,
“Balakrishna’s role has two shades. One is the sincere police officer and the other you have to watch it on the screen.”
How is your feeling on ‘Lion’ as a producer and as a fan?
As a fan, I’m extremely happy. As a producer, I’ve made the film without compromising in terms of quality. The film came out excellently and I’m very happy with the output.
Why the film release date is delayed?
The film was supposed to be released on May 8. CG work was done in Chennai and that was delayed and therefore to send copy to overseas was also delayed. DTS Engineer Madhusudan’s death is also one of the reasons. We have decided to release the film on May 14.
Tell us about your working experience with Balakrishna?
First time I met him as a fan. He spent with me for 45 min. During the shooting, good relationship was developed between us. He has taken due care and supported us a lot. His support is unforgettable.
Tell us about the highlights of the film?
‘Lion’ will be very different. We can’t say which one is highlight. Bang in the interval time, tribal fight in the second half and the climax will stand out as highlights for the film. It will impress all sects of audience.
Tell us little bit about your next coming up project?
At present, Balakrishna is preparing for 99th and 100th film. I’m ready to do 101th film it I get the chance.
Producer Rudrapati Ramana Rao says, “There are huge expectations on ‘Lion’ among the audiences and film fraternity as Balakrishna is acting in this after super hit film ‘Legend’. The film will present Natasimha Nandamuri Balakrishna’s acting skills once again. The way the director Satyadev has carved our Balayya’s character and his dialogue delivery will stun the audience and will be greeted with applause. The film will be up to everyone’s expectations. Recently released teaser, trailers and Melody Brahma Mani Sharma’s music have got good response. Especially, Balakrishn’s getup and dialogues are receiving tremendous response from the fans and audience. Mani Sharma has provided excellent music for the film. We’ve decided to release the film on May 14. I’m sure the film will impress everyone.”