Kondapolam is up for a release this Friday. On this occasion, we caught up with Krish for a detailed interview. Here is the transcript.
What is the film Kondapolam all about?
As you all know, the film is an adaptation of the famous novel Kondapolam and is about becoming yourself. I added my own catalysts and showcased the stories of an UPSC topper from a forest backdrop and Obulamma, a village belle. I took various cinematic liberties and derived a story from it.
How difficult was it to shoot during the Covid time?
We shot the film last September where the Covid was quite strong. We lived in a bio bubble and stayed there in the Vikarabad forest for many days. Also, we had close to 1000 sheep along with us for over a month. The likes of Vaishnav Tej and Rakul Preet worked as spot boys and helped the team a lot. Everything was so planned and I need to appreciate my producers who went all out.
Why did you cast Vaishnav Tej in Kondapolam?
I had known Vaishnav Tej for a long time. In one of the common parties, he showed one of the songs from Uppena. I loved his eyes and the moment, I decided to make this film, I wanted Vaishnav in it. I spoke to him and he was more than excited to do this project.
Tell us about Vaishnav Tej’s performance?
Vaishnav Tej is a very observant actor and has that zeal to learn more with each passing day. Tej worked a lot on the accent and used to spend long nights to get his character right.
Why a modern girl like Rakul Preet for a village belle’s role?
My cameraman suggested her name for the film. But I was not that sure. So, I decided to meet her personally and went to her house. The moment I started narrating the script to her, I could see my Obulamma in Rakul and locked her right away.
Pawan Kalyan’s involvement with this project?
By the time I started this film, I wrapped up two schedules of Hari Hara Veera Mallu. When there was an unexpected break due to Corona, I decided to make this film. So, the moment I told Pawan sir, he gave me full support and asked me to go ahead.
Was this film made for only the OTT version?
I don’t know where this rumor came out. But from day one, I wanted this film to be out on the big screen. Though it is an experimental film, it had a lot of VFX and grand scale. I was never in a hurry to release the film on OTT and was ready to wait. But to our luck, the film is ready for release.
About the music?
From day one, I always wanted someone very experienced for this film. So, I approached Keeravani for this film and he has done a superb job with the music and BGM of the film.