In a recent interview, producer Bellamkonda Suresh stated that young directors are chasing big-hero projects and ending up not making films for 2-3 years after scoring a hit with their debut. "After their first movie, these directors want to team up with some or the other big hero. Since that's not possible immediately (due to the non-availability of dates), they just sit out," Suresh complained. He advised the young filmmakers in Tollywood to keep doing films with small actors. "Eventually, delivering hits with small actors will make you a big name in the industry," he reasoned.
Tharun Basckher is one of the few new-age filmmakers who has followed this path. After 'Pelli Choopulu' became a blockbuster, he did try to team up with Victory Venkatesh but once he realized things were not working out, he quickly made 'Ee Nagaraniki Emaindi' with new faces.
Something in the culture of Tollywood must be making young filmmakers greedy. Perhaps, too many producers are brimming with monetary resources and they want these one-hit directors to collaborate with big stars. Or, the remuneration paid to the directors of big-star movies is so large that these filmmakers don't want to waste their energies and time doing small films.
It could also be a function of their lack of confidence. Small films work very rarely. Just because your first film made with small names worked, it doesn't mean you can repeat the success. Teaming up with big stars ensures safe openings and buzz at the very least.
