Rewind 2018 talkies: Game-changers keep hopes alive

Instead of delivering clichéd potboilers, a handful of T-town directors are trying to explore new themes to raise the bar on Telugu cinema. Amidst routine masala movies, few directors like Sukumar, Nag Ashwin, Sankalp Reddy, Tharun Bhascker and Prashanth Varma are breaking new ground. Undoubtedly, this year belonged to intelligent directors who received appreciation from across the world and their films were also selected for a few film festivals.  

“A handful of young filmmakers are restoring the belief that film is a director’s vision. That is a path-breaking and welcome shift,” says Suresh Babu, who made road movie ‘Ee Nagaraniki Yemaindi’ and tasted success. “Tasteful audience are always on the look-out for interesting movies and just producers have to streamline them,” he adds. 

Talking about ‘Mahanati’ which bagged festival awards, he says, “It has been a while since I was moved by a Telugu film until ‘Mahanati’ made me to sit up and notice. For its elegant casting, realistic performances, breath-taking visuals,” adds Suresh Babu. Another top producer K S Rama Rao describes ‘Rangasthalam’ as a game changer in T-town. “Casting a star like Ram Charan in a down-to-earth role and showcasing honour killing in a unique fashion besides recreating a village with relatable characters and conflicts, gave it an edge,” adds Rama Rao.

Director Teja pats Prashant Varma and Sankalp Reddy for trying to traverse a less travelled path and not succumbing to the whims and fancies of stars and producers. “Telugu stars and producers have the habit of brain washing young directors. They advise directors who approach them to re-cycle old stuff as they believe it is a safe bet. But a few directors are trying to swim against the tide and holding on to their values and talent to make films of their taste.  Only young directors can keep the hopes of Telugu cinema alive and kicking,” Teja concludes.