Here’s a recap of our interview with Gopichand on the eve of his much-anticipated release, Viswam:
Q: What are your thoughts on the story of Viswam?
Gopichand: I’ve wanted to work with Srinu Vaitla for quite a while. At first, we explored a few ideas that didn’t quite resonate with me. But when he narrated Viswam, I could see it was a well-structured storyline, and it felt just right for his style. He dedicated about seven months to shaping the narrative, which shows his commitment to creating something impactful.
Q: How was your experience working with Srinu Vaitla?
Gopichand: Working with him was thrilling! Srinu Vaitla has a unique way of creating a comfortable environment on set, encouraging actors to give their best. Some scenes were so hilarious that I couldn’t keep a straight face and had to apologize to my co-actors for breaking character mid-shot.
Q: Can you share some details about the film’s train sequence?
Gopichand: The train episode might remind some of the classic Venky sequence, but Viswam brings its own flavor. This scene blends high entertainment with a layer of suspense, especially with the involvement of talented actors like Vennela Kishore and V.T. Ganesh, adding an extra spark.
Q: How does Viswam balance action and comedy?
Gopichand: Srinu Vaitla has a talent for weaving action and comedy seamlessly. His timing is fantastic, and the humor feels natural, keeping the audience entertained while driving the story forward.
Q: Were there any memorable moments or challenges during the shoot?
Gopichand: We faced some intense challenges, especially while shooting in extreme conditions, like -15°C temperatures in Manali. But we also filmed in beautiful locations in Italy, which added visual richness to the movie.
Q: Does the film carry a social message?
Gopichand: Yes, there is a subtle message addressing a current issue in India, but it’s woven naturally into the storyline, enhancing the narrative without detracting from the entertainment value.
Q: How have the producers influenced the film’s quality?
Gopichand: The producers have upheld high production standards, ensuring we didn’t have to compromise on quality, which is crucial to the film’s final presentation.
Q: What can audiences expect from Viswam?
Gopichand: Viswam is a clean, family entertainer that promises a good laugh for over two and a half hours. It’s a film that everyone can enjoy together.
Q: Do you have any upcoming projects?
Gopichand: There are ongoing discussions about future projects, and I’ll be sure to share details as soon as everything is confirmed.
Viswam releases tomorrow, and the expectations are sky-high. Here’s wishing Gopichand and the team a fantastic response!
