Hero Sundeep Kishan’s landmark 25th film A1 Express that introduces 14 new technicians including director Dennis Jeevan Kanukolanu is all set for a grand release in a couple of days on March 5th.
There are good expectations on the film, given the team is promoting the film vigorously and promotional material too made good impression.
Here are excerpts from interview with Sundeep Kishan.
A1 Express marks your milestone 25th film. How does it feel?
It’s a milestone film not just because it’s my 25th film. It’s a crazy film and we enjoyed the entire process of making it.
Why did you choose remake for your 25th film?
We loved the core content of the film. Enough changes were made to the script. We made an effort to put out a visually and technically better film than the original. Even Hiphop Tamizha who did the lead role in Tamil version would feel surprised to see Telugu version. Moreover, we wanted to make a film that should be enjoyed by all sections.
What the film actually deals with?
A1 Express deals with a problem which you will know when you watch it in theatres. The film tells that talent and hard work need to get the proper recognition. Despite knowing few things, we choose to stay calm and do nothing about it. That mindset has to be changed.
What are the major highlights of the film?
The film has all emotions. It’s a modern commercial cinema and doesn’t have any unnecessary elements. The film has an enjoyable love story, fun and all the drama that a sports film will usually have. Climax portion has a special vibe. We went madly for it.
How was it shooting in Mohali Stadium?
Mohali Stadium is as big as our Filmnagar area. We were literally speechless and wondered how we could show the complete view of the film.
Why did you choose hockey instead of cricket which is the most popular sport in India?
Hockey is a national sport when we got freedom. However, the corporate system is deciding which sport to watch.
What kind of preparation underwent to play the role?
I learnt Hockey for six months. Besides the regular practice, I used to observe matches to adopt body language of a sportsman.
Did real hockey players work for the film?
Our opposite team has 7 national players. I later came to know that they were paid just 5k per day. This tells the story of hardships of a hockey player.
Did you expect that A1 Express would get clean U certificate?
We thought the film would mostly probably get U/A certificate. However, the censor officials liked the film so much so that they appreciated us for making an emotional sports film. They spoke highly about dialogues of the film.
How helpful was Hip Hop Tamizha’s music for the film?
He gave wonderful music. Hip Hop Tamizha took the film to next level with his background score. Particularly you will love the last 23 minutes of hockey episodes.
Did you feel risky to work with a debut director for a film of the genre?
I mostly worked with debut directors. We had a very strong direction and production team. Much preparation underwent before starting the shoot.
What are your next projects?
I’m doing an action thriller Rowdy Baby which is almost done with its shoot. I’ve produced a lockdown comedy Vivaha Bhojanambu where I’ve also played a cameo. I’m doing an exciting project with a debut director Veda Vyas. I’ve also signed to do a film under AK Entertainment.