Samantha on ‘U Turn’, competition with husband & more

Samantha Akkineni awaits the release of ‘U Turn’ on Sept 13.  In this interview, she talks about the remake, facing unexpected competition from ‘Shailaja Reddy Alludu’, dubbing her voice, becoming a producer and more.

How did this project happen?

I have known director Pawan Kumar since he made ‘Lucia’.  I once told him I am ready to work with him should a nice script be offered to me.  It was later that he committed to doing ‘U Turn’ in Kannada.  I have known this film since it was being written in Kannada. When it became a big hit in that language, I told him I want to act in its remake versions.

Why did it take so long for the movie to be completed?

My hairstyle had to be changed radically for this movie.  So, I had to complete my previous commitments before starting to shoot for ‘U Turn’.  That’s why the project has taken a lot of time.  The film is close to the original.  We have made a few changes, though.  The last 20 minutes of the film is so engaging. 

Why did you dub on your own instead of going in for Chinmayi?

I have dubbed for my character in the movie.  There is no reason why Chinmayi hasn’t dubbed for me.  Even in Tamil, it’s me who has dubbed the voice.  I want to be known as a complete actor.

How do you see the inevitable and unforeseen competition with ‘Shailaja Reddy Alludu’?

It was unexpected totally.  ’SRA’ was supposed to be released on August 31.  We had announced Sept 13 as the release date of ‘U Turn’ much before. It’s true that I am a bit nervous about this competition between us.  But I wish Chaitanya all the best and success.  Everything comes to me only after his success. I have watched ‘SRA’. It’s a Maruthi-style entertainer which everybody is going to love.

How has it been with Chaitanya on a personal front?

With him by my side, I have become a much stronger person.  I get the support of his entire family.  He is always with me!

When are you becoming a producer?

I can’t do acting and produce movies simultaneously.  But I will surely turn into a producer some day.  But there is time for that to happen.  I will produce content-driven movies in future.

What are your upcoming movies?

I will be doing a movie with Chaitanya.  It will be directed by Shiva Nirvana.  I have recently signed up to do another movie.  It will be announced later.