A classic reVAMPED

Re-release might be the MO of film makers today as they cash in on a successful formula. Among the most commercially successful movies from the production houses of the thespian, late Dr Rajkumar — Om directed by Upendra and starring Dr Shivarajkumar in the lead is the best example.

The film has been re-released innumerable times, and each time, it comes with a superior digital makeover. Several Kannada films in the past too have followed this mantra, of which seven films star the late Dr Rajkumar and the late Dr Vishnuvardhan. Bengaluru Chronicle reports on this trend of re-releasing, and the commercial aspects behind it.

The latest one to join the long list of re-releases is the cult classic — Tarka directed by Sunil Kumar Desai, starring the late Karate King Shankar Nag, Dynamic Star Devaraj and others. After acquiring the video rights, this new version comes with improved sound quality (5.1 surround sound) and complete digitisation. Tarka has been re-released in more than 50 theatres.

If Om remains on top of the list, as one of the costliest film made by the then production houses of late Dr Rajkumar family, then the mythological film Babruvahana is one of the most popular films starring Dr Rajkumar. It was recently  re-released coinciding with Annavaru’s 87th birthday. It comes with a complete makeover that is Rs 60 lakh strong! Babruvahana was released in 1977, and it was made for Rs 35 lakh.

“The popularity of a film and the emotional connect with fans that stretches beyond a generation is the main reasons for its re-release. It’s is a positive development, this digitisation of a classic in superior quality. It helps restore a film as a treasure for future generations to enjoy,” says Subramanya, a film historian.
Other Dr Rajkumar movies which have been re-released with superior quality, after Satya Harishchandra are Kasturi Nivasa, Raja Nanna Raja, Naanobba Kalla and Operation Diamond Racket.

The Sunil Kumar Desai directed Tarka released in 1989, and won the state award for best screenplay and sound recording and was eventually remade in Tamil and Malayalam too. Dr Vishnuvardhan follows the list, as most of his films have been re-released. His 1984 blockbuster Khaidi was re-released two years ago after being digitally re-mastered. It was released after a huge demand from the actor’s fans. Khaidi was released once again after 30 years as well. Kiccha Sudeep, among the greatest fans of Vishnu dada, was seen watching this legendary star’s movie at the theatres when it was re-released in 2014.

Even the Rebel Star joins this league of heroes whose films have been re-released. The Rebel Star Ambareesh starring Antha directed by Dr SV Rajendra Singh Babu was re-released marking the 63rd birthday of star. It was initially released in 1981, and is considered to be one of the actor’s best movies even today.