Return of the ghost

Although the initial plan was to complete the film in 34 days, ‘Avanthika’, starring Poorna, has been wrapped up in 40 days. Director Sriraj, speaking to Talkies, says, “A major part of the film was shot in a fort at Kollapur, Mahabubnagar, while remaining portions were filmed across Hyderabad.”

Talking about the film, the director says it narrates the consequences of superstitious beliefs. “It is based on black magic but is peppered with comedy,” he says, refusing to give anything about the logline. He admits to be blown away by Poorna’s skills. “Her character has two shades. In the first half she plays a soft village girl and it could have been pulled off by anyone.

It is the second half where she would be seen as a ghost that I saw her true competence. Some of her expressions and dialogues would send shivers down audience spine,” he promises, adding, “At times, she gave me more than what I wanted but I just took what was required.” Produced by Rama Satyanarayana, who earlier made ‘Ice Cream,’ the film also features Sayaji Shinde, Ajay Ghosh, Dhanraj, Shakalaka Shankar and Geetanjali in supporting roles.