Since this lockdown, many new films have walked into OTT platforms from South. Now, we have an interesting crime thriller from Tollywood which is set for release on ZEE5 on 30th June.
Titled as '47 days', the film features Sathya Dev, Pooja Jhaveri and Roshini Prakash in lead roles. A former assistant of Puri Jagannadh, Pradeep Maddali is getting launched as a director with this movie. Noted singer and music composer Raghu Kunche has donned the producer's hat for this film, along with Sashi Bhushan Naidu, Vijay Shankar Donkada and Sridhar Makkuva, With two days left for the release, the director of '47 Days' had a small chit chat with iQlikmovies:
Hi Pradeep Garu, How are you?
A: I am good. Thanks.
Tell us about the initial idea of this project and how it started?
A: It all started with one single scene from my short film 'Juliet'. I have adapted and developed 47 days script based on a sequence from that short film, which also received an award from IIM Calcutta.
How did Sathya Dev come on board for this movie?
A: Sathya and I are good friends since 'Jyothi Lakshmi' days and we're planning to work together. After I finalized the script, it was always Sathya as a lead for this project.
Are you worried that audiences will not be able to experience this crime-thriller in the theatres?
A: Initially, I was not very happy about it because every technician has worked really hard for this movie. But, I am fine with it after a round of discussions with my producers. Also, OTT platforms have now emerged as a parallel stream for cinemas. End of the day- as a director, I want large number of audiences to watch this movie.
You launched the trailer in April-2019, but what are reasons for this long delay?
A: Various middlemen have approached us to release to film. But, that didn't work. As a result, it has postponed the film's release by few months.
Did you inspire this subject from 1981's '47 Natkal' (47 days) which is made by Balachander?
A: This story has nothing to do with 47 Natkal. But, I can say it is a homage to the legendary director.
Did your Guru Puri Jagannadh watch this film and what is his feedback?
A: No - he was busy with Fighter, but he has backed my project in all possible ways. And this story takeoff will happen with Puri's voiceover.
How did your collaboration with Raghu Kunche (Producer and music composer) happen?
A: Initially, Raghu Garu was impressed with a short demo I made while working for Puri Jagannadh. He remembered for making it on a very low budget and began to follow up with me about stories.
Tell us about Sathya Dev and his role!
A: Sathya has owned this subject very well and his portrayal of a suspended cop role was quite impressive. His character has got all the shades and emotions have worked out really great in the film. We're able to hold that hooking point of a crime thriller till the last minute and whoever has watched it gave us exciting reviews.
Who apart from Puri has inspired you as a director?
A: RGV always (smilies).
Tell us about the film producers?
A: When I and Sathya decided to work on this project, we planned it as a crowdfunding one. I know Raghu Garu since Devudu Chesina Manushulu was in the making. One day, he asked me if I've any interesting subjects so that he along with his friends can produce it. When I narrated the script to Sreedhar Garu, Sashi Garu and Vijay Garu, they have the nod immediately.
How did you approach Puri and join as an assistant?
A: I joined Puri Jagannadh Garu as an apprentice. Before that, I used to regularly follow and interact with RGV. It all started after they both (Puri and RGV) liked a poster I created and eventually things fell in place. Also, I frequently met them and used to visit Raktha Charitra and Appalraju sets as an observer. One fine day, I decided to quit my job. After I approached Puri Garu saying I left my job to be serious about direction, he took me into his team. I feel lucky that Puri Garu has accepted me.
Share your experience of working with Pawan Kalyan for Cameraman Gangatha Rambabu?
A: I have always been a fan of Kalyan sir since my college days. He used to notice me in formals as an AD on sets. He enquired with Puri Garu and learned that I came from an IT background.
Tell us about your future projects?
A: Before this lockdown, I signed a film for a major production house. Apart from that, a web series is in final talks.
Thank you Pradeep Garu and all the very best for the film's release.
A: Thank you!
