D Suresh Babu is proud to be releasing 'C/o Kancharapalem', the village-based drama directed by Maha. In this interview, he talks about what makes it a commercially viable film, what makes it both artistic and emotional, his vision and more.

What is unique about the film? You are promoting it as a commercial film rather than an art house one. What makes it commercial?

It has a universal appeal. It can be had in any backdrop. What makes it commercially viable are three factors: there are love stories in the movie, there is natural humour throughout (and humour doesn't come with punchlines etc in this film), and then there is music, which is integral to the unfolding drama.

The film was made using sync sound technique. So, it's so natural. In Kancharapalem village where it was all shot, a train would pass through the village every five minutes. It was very hard for them to shoot!

The film is set in a village near Vizag. Is it relatable for all?

It is. The backdrop could be anything. The same story can be told in Mehadipatnam basthi or Krishna Nagar. There are hundreds of situations, there are very many characters (from a sculptor to an attendant). Every relationship is etched beautifully here. They are honest characters who transcend religion, caste and other narrow identities. Every trivial character makes an impact. If it's a gym the instructor, the trainee, the staff - everybody makes an impact.

Rajamouli, Keeravani, Sukumar, Vijay Deverakonda, Nani and many others have praised the movie. Did you approach them with a request to support the movie, since it has no start cast and it needs promotion?

No. They themselves showed interest in the movie. They too learned about the movie from others. And they wanted to see the movie. That's why we arranged those special screenings for them. In fact, the celebs didn't want to talk about their response right after the shows. They wanted to savour the experience. Such is the kind of impact 'C/o Kancharapalem' had on them.

Are you going for a big release?

No. The movie will have a limited release. It won't be there in even 75 screens. We are looking at word-of-mouth to help it over the first weekend. If we have been hosting so many special screenings, it's because we want positive word-of-mouth to spread.

Are you not scared that the twist in the story will be out because of special screenings?

Truth alone triumphs. Even if some nasty fellow reveals the twist, it's ok. We believe that the film will still entertain you even if you know the twist.

Are you planning to take the world of 'C/o Kancharapalem' forward?

Probably, there is a scope to make a web series. There are so many characters and their stories are so different. The style of storytelling you see in the movie is international.