Nandanavanam 120 Km
When somebody wins a national award, he becomes a marked man. So did Neelakanta after his Missamma walked with the coveted honor a few years back.
But that set the expectations sky high and when Sada Mee Sevalo released it couldn't match it. It took some time for Neelakanta to recover. But now he is back with his usual poise and confidence.
That is why he is directing as well as producing Nandanavanam 120 kms.
Neelakanta is so confident that he has gone for an all-new cast. He is introducing Ajay Varma and Manasa as the hero and heroine.
Manasa has the right genes for an actress --- she is the granddaughter of G Varalakshmi.
The movie carries a suspense and is about a journey.
The director is very vary of divulging the details of the movie. There is also an emotional angle to it, he says.
Incidentally, Neelakanta was a producer before he took up direction. So through Blue Sky Film (the banner under which the movie is produced) he is making a second comeback.
Neelakanta says he was comfortable working with youthful newcomers. Both are smart performers, he says.
Neelakanta has plumped for talented technicians like PG Vinda and Vijay (who had worked in Grahanam) for camera and music.
But there are no songs in the movie and the director says that the script does not warrant it (songs).
Veteran actor Kota Srinivasa Rao plays a vital character. So does Naresh. Debutant Ajay Varma feels the script and story of the movie is the real hero. Manasa also said, ' It was pleasure working with Neelakanta. It is a rewarding experience', she says.
The movie is set for release next week.