In a candid and insightful conversation, director Vijaya Bhaskar shared the inspiration and vision behind his latest film, Usha Parinayam. Scheduled for release on August 2, the film is a family-centric entertainer that explores the true essence of love. Bhaskar, who is also the producer under Vijaya Bhaskar Kraft, is excited to introduce his son, Sree Kamal, in a new light and also launch Telugu actress Tanvi Akaanksha in her debut role.
Here’s what Bhaskar had to say about the film:
Q: People describe Usha Parinayam as a feel-good family entertainer. What makes this film special?
Vijaya Bhaskar: “Usha Parinayam is a film that embodies my definition of love. In today’s world, love is often misconstrued or twisted into something violent. What’s portrayed as love in some stories is really just infatuation or even insanity. In my film, I want to make the clear distinction that love should never be violent. It’s a youthful entertainer, but it carries a simple yet profound message: love is pure and beautiful.”
Q: Your son, Sree Kamal, is playing a significant role in this movie. How does this film differ from his previous works?
Vijaya Bhaskar: “Kamal has been known for his entertaining roles, but this film is a departure from that. Usha Parinayam presents him in a more intense, emotional role. This is an opportunity for him to explore a different facet of his acting abilities. It’s an intense love story, and I’m excited to see how he has embraced this new challenge.”
Q: You’ve also introduced Tanvi Akaanksha in this film. What stood out about her for this role?
Vijaya Bhaskar: “Tanvi Akaanksha is a remarkable talent. She’s making her debut as the heroine and I was drawn to her natural charm and dedication. Her role as Usha is central to the film and I believe her performance will capture the hearts of the audience. She’s a well-behaved and professional actress and I’m thrilled to have her in this project.”
Q: Comedy plays a role in Usha Parinayam. How did you balance humour with the film’s more serious themes?
Vijaya Bhaskar: “Comedy is a genre with limitless boundaries, and it can be incorporated into various types of stories. In Usha Parinayam, the humour flows naturally from the script. It’s not forced but rather an integral part of the coming-of-age narrative. The comedy complements the story without overshadowing the film’s core message about love and family.”
Q: What are your thoughts on the evolving tastes of the audience and their impact on filmmaking?
Vijaya Bhaskar: “I don’t believe audience tastes have drastically changed. People still seek good stories and engaging content. The platforms might evolve, but the essence of storytelling remains the same. If a film is crafted well and resonates with the audience, they will come to the theaters. It’s about delivering a story that people can connect with, no matter the medium.”
Q: The film’s title and tagline, “Love is Beautiful,” are quite evocative. What’s the significance behind them?
Vijaya Bhaskar: “The title Usha Parinayam has been a dream project of mine for many years. It centers around Usha’s journey through love and marriage. The tagline, ‘Love is Beautiful,’ captures the essence of what I wanted to convey. In an age where the true beauty of love is often lost, this film aims to remind people of its purity and nobility. Love is an emotion that should be celebrated, not controlled or corrupted.”
As Usha Parinayam approaches its release, director Vijaya Bhaskar’s heartfelt intentions and dedication to portraying love in its truest form are evident. The film promises to be a delightful experience for families, offering a refreshing take on romance and the values that bind us together.