Actor-turned-filmmaker Srinivas Avasarala is looking forward to his Telugu directorial debut “Oohalu Gusagusalaade”. We recently caught up with him to discuss about the film, his transition from an actor to director and a lot more.
1. You in a recent interview quoted that you wanted to prove a point with Oohalu Gusagusalaade when it comes to your potential as a director. Do think you’ll succeed in this aim of yours ?
Firstly, I never made such a statement. When I was asked a question about the reason behind me directing this film, I was just misrepresented. Being a total outsider, I wasn’t considered seriously when I entered the industry as an actor. I then went on to make a mark. With regard to Oohalu Gusagusalaade too, it was a similar situation where I wanted to experiment and direct a film. I’m not ruining others chances with this move of mine. You can never do things if you want to prove your point. You just do if you love it or you simply won’t.
2. Why did you cast yourself in a role in the film ? Wasn’t it tough to handle multiple responsibilities ?
Initially, another director was on-board for the film and he wanted me to play this part. Having written the story myself, I knew it was a meaty role and I couldn’t have let it pass by . However, after being told to direct it, the producer wasn’t keen on entrusting me with a double-job. We were looking for other actors for the character and by then we had completed shooting some scenes. Sai Korrapati was convinced enough with my control on the sets that he didn’t mind me acting too. It was a creative as well as a budgeting choice that hopefully should work for us.
3. Are the audiences in a phase where they can’t digest any films that don’t have stars ?
I can’t come to a conclusion about this. We are crowds who go to the theatres more so to worship actors than the content. The other side of the coin is all about intelligent marketing. Uyyala Jampala,Swamy Ra Ra, Anthaku Mundu Aa Tharuvatha and Prema Katha Chitram are examples you can probably consider. They were backed only for their storily worth and nothing else. Instead of blaming it on the spectators, it’s the filmmakers who should exercise change. People consume only what they are fed with.
4. Did you at any stage feel tempted to cast more recognized actors in the lead roles to maximize your reach ?
As this was my first film, I wasn’t completely sure of dealing with stars. Most importantly, I had a love story that needed a fresh couple without much baggage to strike an audience-connect. Besides, with a neck-tight budget and a short time-span for the shoot, I couldn’t have taken a gamble. Nevertheless, with the Varaahi team producing it, I knew my product was in safe hands and was sure about their pre-release promotions. I got all the freedom that I needed and didn’t use it to over-spend on the resources.
5. Will increasing number of influential reviews on films in the online and the print media eventually affect a film’s fortune ?
That’ll only happen when your film is on the wall. If I have to talk about its relevance with the box-office run, I am sure that they (critics) won’t pan a work if it’s a classic and then glorify if it’s a dud. It is ultimately their credibility that’s at stake. All said and done, the makers should focus more on the output rather than expecting the reviewers to elevate something that’s mediocre.
6. From your perspective, what could have been done better with Amrutham Chandamama Lo in relation to the unflattering response ?
It’s the director’s call that I as an actor always surrender to. But, for a humorous sit-com like Amrutham to succeed, the presence of bigger actors could have been an immense boost. I have seen the crowds lapping the comedy in the film well. Considering the fact it was an experiment in the sci-fi genre on an equal measure, the scale wasn’t quite apt for newcomers and the movie as a whole to ensure a longer run in the theatres.
7. Being a trained script-writer coming from University of California who had earlier experiences with Indraganti Mohan Krishna, Gunnam Gangaraju and Neelakanta, did you groom yourself well as a director ?
It’s the sensibility with respect to a film and the subject that you imbibe from them. As much as I maintain that, you aren’t in a school where you can just pick things and learn. The thing with these experiences is that they constantly inspire you to elevate your standards. In that sense, I am a happy man to have associated with them.
8. In the recent promotions for the film, you’ve quite actively promoted Raashi Khanna’s performance in the film. What’s so special about her act that made you do this ?
I have conceived this film. I can at least judge those aspects that have worked well for this when I am translating it from paper onto the screen. Raashi Khanna’s presence is surely one of them and I am proud of her performance.
9. What role do you enjoy more between an actor and a director ?
I would say being an actor is more satisfying when you can improvise on a character. That can turn equally embarrassing when you don’t trust the story. But, the role of a director gives you more creative control and helps you grasp the situation better. I am open to do or make a good movie regardless of the tag, whether it demands me to be an actor, director or a producer. When it comes to writing, I am however particular of not losing my voice (personal touch) after the re-drafts.
10. Knowing that the scope to experiment in Telugu cinema is diminishing by the day, didn’t you try to make a shift towards industries that are more open in encouraging ideas ?
I see no point in shifting base to other languages when I am sure of making an impact here. I don’t understand the dialect and sensibility of their audiences. I am happy with my space and feel I can contribute more by sticking to home-ground.
11. What’s the USP of Oohalu Gusagusalaade ?
It’s an entertaining film that will mirror real life. It’s about people you see everyday and have known closely. The actors will strike a chord with the audiences. I am very satisfied with what I’ve made and seen from Naga Shourya and Raashi Khanna. The production values and the glorious Vizag locales will enhance the experience.
Interview by Srivathsan N. First published in Cinegoer.net