Hyderabad: Talking about Race Gurram, starring Allu Arjun and Shruti Haasan, director Surender Reddy says that he penned the script exclusively for Allu Arjun as he was impressed with the actor’s energy levels. “Allu Arjun is one actor who can energise dull people easily. Also, he doesn’t have any ego problems and is always friendly with everybody,” says Surender Reddy.
He said that the film is about two brothers. “Sibling rivalry that starts in childhood and continues into their youth is the main theme,” he says. ‘Kick’ Sham is playing Allu Arjun’s brother in the film. Race Gurram is not related to races or betting. “Just as a race horse looks only at its target, in this film the protagonist focuses on his goal, thus the title,” says Surender Reddy.
About Shruti Hassan, Surender says, “She looks glamorous and at the same time, plays an important role. This is the first time she is cast in a very different character.” He added that Saloni has a small, but important character. She stars opposite Sham in the film.
Asked about how hits get credited to lead actors and flops to directors he says, “I personally feel that the responsibility of a film’s success and failure lies with the director.” He added that only on few occasions the lead actors have taken the credit, but mostly directors get appreciated. He agrees that when a director joins hands with a star it adds to the film’s image. Many celebrities spend time on social media, but not Surender Reddy. “I tried it initially, but I don’t think it works for me. I felt everything on social media was abnormal. There are some advantages and disadvantages, but I am not comfortable there,” he says.
Talking about his future projects he says he is ready with Kick 2 with Ravi Teja. “This is not a sequel to Kick but Ravi Teja will carry some continuity from that film to this one. Also I wanted to make a small budget film with newcomers. This subject will be a love story and it may start soon,” he says.
