Puri Jagan is one director who comes up with very interesting films one after the other. His latest presentation is ISM which stars Nandamuri Kalyan Ram in a lead role. On the eve of the film’s release, we caught up with Puri for a detailed interview. Let’s see what he has to say.
What is ISM all about ?
ISM is the story of a sincere journalist who fights against today’s corruption. I had written this story ten years back but revived it now and set it according to today’s situations.
You already made a film on corruption with Cameraman Ganga Tho Ram Babu. What is special about this ?
That film had a whole lot of preaching from Pawan Kalyan. But this film will be totally different. I feel that corruption will never die in our country and will only take different shapes. The way we have dealt with the narration and Kalyan Ram’s character will be completely different in ISM.
About Kalyan Ram’s role ?
He plays an interesting role of a journalist and will be showcased in a completely new look. I always wanted him to play this role as he is a very honest man and my story needed someone like that. I feel that Kalyan has given a very honest performance and win all the best actor awards this year for his performance.
Whose idea was it to give a transformation to Kalyan Ram ?
It was my idea. I felt that a very honest journalist who is making such huge statements and doing some very hard hitting things in the film should also look fit. Kalyan took three months to get in shape and the result is for everyone to see.
Why do you always pick films which have a strong social connection ?
The society has changed completely and we as a part of it get corrupted in some stage or the other. I draw inspiration from real life incidents and make a contemporary film. In ISM too, I have touched various subjects like Wiki leaks and various other corruption issues which have become the part and parcel of the society.
About Casting Aditi Arya ?
Aditi is an ex Miss India and has done a wonderful job in the film. She has a very crucial role in the film and will go a long way in Tollywood.
What made you sing for this film ?
It was completely Anup’s idea. He forced to pen lyrics for a song and also asked me to sing for it.
What happened to your film with Mahesh ?
I have already penned a script to Mahesh and he liked it too. But post that, I did not get any reply for him and still waiting for his answer.
When is Rogue releasing ?
Even that film is completed. We are looking to release the film sometime in December.
How do you pick your scripts ?
Everything comes from within the society and as soon as I get an idea, I pen it down. In fact, I have scripts ready for the next ten years.
Your next goal in life ?
I have already worked with all the stars in Tollywood. My next aim is to make a crossover film with both Indian and Hollywood stars.