'Bhaje Vaayu Vegam' is slated to hit the cinemas on May 31. In this interview, Kartikeya Gummakonda suggests that the film is about a lone man standing for his family and doing heroic things for its sake. "The hero is emotional in the first half and is audacious in the second half. The progression of the character is different in the two halves," the 'RX 100' actor says, throwing light on his upcoming movie.
Kartikeya has played a cricketer in the UV Creations presentation. "I have never played cricket in a stadium. I am a professional cricketer in 'BVV' and I had to get training," he adds.
It was during the pandemic lockdown that director Prashanth Reddy narrated the story of 'Bhaje Vaayu Vegam'. Twenty minutes into the narration, I was hooked. It energized me. I was actually in a sleepy mood before the narration started. The narration jolted me out of my sleep. For a debut director, he is extremely precise in execution. He is clear about edit patterns and plans his kind of RR in advance. Debut directors show more reliance on technicians.
My original plan was to move to 'Bedurulanka 2012' only after completing 'BVV'. However, plans changed. We didn't want the film to be completed at a fast clip. The length of my hair in both films was different.
I and Rahul Tyson play brothers in the film. He is a senior actor. I was in Class IX when 'Happy Days' was released. True to his name, he now looks muscular, Tyson-like. That's also one of the reasons why he was chosen for 'BVV'.
There are no songs in the second half. Unless the song is taking the story forward, an out-and-out serious film doesn't require any songs. Karthi's 'Kaithi' was intense. 'BVV' is intense that way. While 'Kaithi' had so much action, 'BVV' is more emotional. The audience are exposed to international cinema these days. The first half is a full meal, while the second half gives a certain kind of kick. Both halves complement each other. The first hour goes into establishing the emotional foundation. The second hour is racy and might be loved more by the audience.
My role in 'BVV' serves the kind of heroism that others can emulate. He deals with relatable problems in the film. As an actor, I believe in social responsibility. Films necessarily influence impressionable minds. 'BVV' has been made to my strengths.
It would be great if I get to do the biopic of a legendary cricketing personality. If I land a biopic, I would definitely go for it.
'Bedurulanka 2012' had good content and that's why it became a commercial success. My previous films post 'RX 100' were lacking something. As an actor, I have certain rules and principles. I don't play certain kinds of characters. 'Gang Leader' helped me a great deal. Although it was a negative character, the treatment made all the difference in how the audience perceived me. Post that film, directors have wanted to show me in a classy way. 'Valimai' came my way because of that project. Getting to do the chief antagonist opposite Ajith garu was an irresistible offer. Nothing better has come my way from Kollywood since then. I am recognized by the people of Tamil Nadu thanks to that film.
UV Creations has produced 'BVV'. Bagging their film was a great feeling in itself. It's a relief when you are associated with such a banner. They take care of all formalities.
I don't bother about box-office numbers. I will start doing it only once my films generate openings regardless of content. Until then, I don't have to worry. 'BVV' has a strong hook and will surely work with the audience. It's a sure-fire project that can redefine my career.
