RK Sagar, known for memorable lead roles in popular TV serials 'Chakravakam' and 'Mogali Rekulu', returns to the big screen with a cop story titled 'The 100'. Sagar, honored with the Nandi TV Award for Best Actor, has transitioned from the realm of romantic comedies (as seen in his previous film, 'Shadi Mubarak') to embrace the challenges of an action thriller intertwined with emotions.
Director Raghav Omkar Sasidhar, after making award-winning short films, is making his feature film debut with this quality movie. Sasidhar, in this interview, talks about the project at length.
Film titles rarely are a number. What is the rationale behind the title, 'The 100'?
Once we unveil the motion poster, the reasoning behind the title will become partially evident. The complete clarity, however, will emerge only when you experience the movie. It should be emphasized that the title is perfectly fitting.
What prompted you to make your feature film debut with a subject like this?
I have many stories with me. I made attempts to approach some other hero. Since he was busy with his assignments, I couldn't go ahead. Around the same time, RK Sagar garu, whom I have known for many years, asked me if I had anything interesting. When I told him the story of 'The 100', he was intrigued. He told me he was waiting for a story of this sort. He had heard about a real-life story involving a cop. I incorporated that element into the story I had written.
RK Sagar is popular among the family audience. How apt is he for the cop's role?
Fans and audiences of RK Sagar garu have eagerly anticipated seeing him portray a police officer on the silver screen. Given his substantial fan following, 'The 100' is a fitting project. Despite previously portraying a cop on the small screen, his role as Vikranth in 'The 100' presents a distinct character. Sagar garu's on-screen physicality is bound to etch the character of IPS officer Vikranth into everyone's memory after this film. He has invested special care in dubbing for his character.
What genre does 'The 100' belong to?
'The 100' is an emotional action thriller. Very few stories are a combination of emotions, family scenes and gripping thrills. While being realistic, the film is also commercial. It's a rare combination. This is a film everyone from kids to elders will like because of a pertinent point we have raised.
Tell us about the cinematography and the music. You have worked with two of the most talented technicians?
Shyam K Naidu garu is a senior-most cinematographer who has previously done many successful movies. His camera work is in tune with the mood of 'The 100'. The music is by Harshavardhan Rameshwar of 'Animal', 'Kabir Singh' and 'Arjun Reddy' fame. All four songs he has composed are amazing in 'The 100'. And his BGM has enhanced the feel.
Since this is an action movie, the fights are crucial. Tell us about the action choreography?
Vijay Master and Dragon Prakash Master have composed the fights, which belong to a certain mood. The action blocks adhere to the story. Sagar garu worked hard because he loves action scenes.
You have worked under Krishna Vamsi before. To what extent did his style influence you?
Krishna Vamsi garu's approach and presentation influenced me a lot. First, When you are telling a story, you have to convey something good and positive. Second, you have to try a variety of genres. I have developed my stories in such a way that the genres are not repeated. My award-winning indie/short films, 'Nannu Kshaminchandi', 'Laddu' and 'Omkaram', won hundreds of international awards between them. My films have won six Nandi Awards between them.
So, when are you planning to release 'The 100' in theatres?
The producers are looking for the right date. Once the date is locked, the promotions will commence.
What are you planning next?
I will next be doing a socio-mythic fantasy. It will be a big-scale movie. Its producer will make the announcement.
