Actress-turned-producer Supriya Yarlagadda is quite happy to be associated with the content-based Kannada film 'Boys Hostel' and will release its dubbed version in the two Telugu states on August 26. She admits that small films are having a tough time. She dislikes the bifurcation of Tollywood and Bollywood and claims that regional barriers have disappeared. Her cousin Naga Chaitanya spared some time to promote the film. She also talks about her uncle Nagarjuna with the Deccan Chronicle.
Q. Why such a reputed banner like Annapurna Studios is backing a small film like 'Boys Hostel'?
A: Firstly, there is no big or small film, rather it is a good or bad film. The huge success of the recent film 'Baby' vouches for it. Coming to the Kannada movie 'Boys Hostel', we found a lot of potential in this refreshing entertainer, revolving around a group of energetic students. Hence, Annapoorna Studios is backing the film in two Telugu states.
Q. Even your cousin Naga Chaitanya has graced an event to promote the film!
A: We wanted to create a buzz around the film and Naga Chaitanya was all willing to promote it since our family believes that good content always works with Telugu audiences. These days, small films have to make a lot of noise, otherwise it has become difficult to draw in crowds on the first day.
Q. You seem to have found a good number of theatres despite six films releasing this week.
A. Our support has helped the film to get good visibility and a decent number of theatres which it deserves. We avoided competition and hit the screens only on Saturday to attract students since it is their story. We have done our bit. It is now in the hands of audience to take it forward.
Q.Nagarjuna has the biggest hits like 'Manam' and ‘Soggade Chinni Nayana’ from your banner. Are you planning a film with him?
A: Undoubtedly, Nagarjuna uncle is the backbone of Annapoorna Studios and he has kept it in good stead with his enviable choices. He will be doing a big-ticket film for us soon, while he will be working with other producers as well. Similarly, we will make movies with Naga Chaitanya and Akhil if we find the right scripts. They may be doing films with outsiders but they have to come back to their home.
Q. What's your take on Telugu movies sweeping national awards this year?
A. It's a moment of pride and happiness. Rajamouli garu has set a precedent of sorts by bagging Oscars for RRR and now swept national awards. Similarly, Allu Arjun bagged the National Award for Best Actor which is another big achievement. I dislike the bifurcation of Tollywood and Bollywood since the film fraternity is one. Regional barriers have disappeared and language barriers are blurring too.
