'Romantic' will be released in theatres on October 29. In this interview, actor Akash Puri talks about the premise of the film, his character, doing his father Puri Jagannadh's story, working with Ketika Sharma, his future plans, and more.
'Romantic' went on the floors six months after the release of 'Mehbooba'. After the success of 'iSmart Shankar', we felt that 'Romantic' should be done more carefully. Then entered Ramya Krishna garu. The pandemic happened and it took two years for the release.
I was apprehensive that this film might have to be sold to some OTT platform, especially because 'Romantic' is a pure theatrical experience. I have been waiting for the theatrical release. Films like 'Krack' to the recent 'Love Story' have been reviving the film industry. The Telugu audience must be thanked for watching movies in theatres.
Besides romantic scenes, our film has got a number of action scenes as well. It's not directed just at youngsters. The trailer is in keeping with the title. But the content of the film is different. The 'word of mouth' is going to be different.
Vasco is a common name in Goa, where the story of the film is set. There is suspense in the film. There are no twists but the narration is exciting. I am part of the crime department and his route is not straightforward.
My father (Puri Jagannadh) has created a number of entertaining characters. Vasco will join the league of his memorable characters.
Although this one is Anil Paduri's first movie, it didn't feel like his debut. He is extremely efficient and can handle any big project.
I am honoured to have got to work with Ramya Krishna garu. My scenes with her of a tug-of-war nature. It was amazing to work with the actress of films like 'Narasimha'. It was not easy to deliver dialogues in her presence. But she was patient to let me work at my own pace.
I was reluctant to do the romantic scenes but my father told me that I have to do it when the title is 'Romantic'. It's not easy to do such scenes in front of the camera.
It feels great that Prabhas garu has released the trailer for 'Romantic'. He is a huge star and he himself volunteered to release the trailer despite his busy schedule in Mumbai. He is fond of me and has known me since childhood.
There will be a celebrity preview show two days before the theatrical release. It needs a lot of confidence.
Had I not been an actor, I would probably have been in the direction department. Rajinikanth garu is my favourite actor. I also love Chiranjeevi garu. The two actors are like Gods to me.
I want to do films that can be enjoyed by all sections of the audience. I don't want to limit myself to any particular class of audience or genre of cinema. I love challenges and playing Vasco in 'Romantic' was a great experience. Prabhas garu himself has complimented me saying that I have done it like a five-film old actor in the trailer. The feedback for my voice has been positive.
'Pokiri', 'Businessman' and 'Neninthe' are my favourite movies made by my dad. 'Chor Bazaar', my next film, is shaping up well. It has got a bigger scale. It's an action film. The production works are almost completed and will release in early 2022.
Unlike my dad, who reads a lot of books, I am not fond of books. I was poor at studies as well.
