Salaar, starring PAN India star Prabhas, is up for a grand release on 22nd December. The movie, directed by Prashanth Neel, is produced by Vijay Kiragandur under the banner of Hombale Films. Ahead of the release, the producer interacted with the media, and here is the transcript.
How did the journey begin?
Salaar began in 2021. But unexpectedly, Covid started, which had an effect on shooting. The full-fledged shooting commenced in 2022. We completed the shoot by January 2023 and then started the post-production work. We want to release the film in five languages, and hence, we are taking extreme care. It took more time than expected for dubbing and CGI work. Hence, we are releasing the film in December.
How are you feeling about the success of KGF 2?
KGF franchise received a humongous response. Audiences across languages embraced the film. The way people look at us has changed significantly. We are more responsible now, and hence, we want to make films that are crowd-pleasing. Hence, there is a delay.
Why is it that every film coming from Hombale Films is releasing in two parts?
To be frank, we didn’t plan to make a second part for KGF when we started the film. After shooting for a few days, the director explained to us that the movie needed to be made in two parts. But the situation isn’t the same for Kantara. We were doubtful if people from other regions would watch a film based on the traditions of Karnataka. Kantara can be made in two to three parts because the story demands. The same is the case with Salaar.
What aspects do you consider for okaying a story?
I don’t think about the budget. I only focus on concept and content. I will see who the director is and his skills. I oversee if the story sequence is right or not. I will also check if the subject is relevant at this point in time. For me, content and director matters the most.
What do you feel looking at Salaar’s sky-high expectations?
Prabhas is a superstar, and Prashanth Neel is a big director who possesses the following across states. When these two forces join hands, the expectations are bound to be huge. The movie will reach the expectations of the audience.
What is the reason for not conducting a grand event?
We are racing against time. Both Prabhas Garu and Prashanth Neel Garu are currently busy. We will conduct a grand success event very soon.