I love to present heroes in New Avatar Says Venkat Prabhu
on May 10, 2023
Yuva Samrat Naga Chaitanya and director Venkat Prabhu's upcoming film 'Custody' is ready for release on May 12. Krithi Shetty acted as heroine in this movie. Arvind Swami, Sarath Kumar and Priyamani played key roles. Maestro Ilaiyaraaja and Yuvan Shankar Raja composed the tunes. Srinivasaa Chitturi produced the film. Ahead of the release, Venkat Prabhu interacted with Telugu media about the film.
Talking about the inspiration behind Custody story. He said, "The concept for this story emerged during the COVID-19 pandemic My Maanaadu got delayed since that film involves a lot of crowds. So during that break, I started writing this story. 2021 Malayalam political survival thriller film 'Nayattu' is the inspiration behind 'Custody'. My protagonist is an ordinary constable from a humble background but he is in a commercial space.
He added "I began building on a storyline I had in mind keeping the tastes of the Tamil and Telugu audience in mind. Unexpectedly, I happened to catch a song from Naga Chaitanya's 'Love Story'. I then decided to cast him as the hero. I wanted someone with no image (in Tamil), someone who could be molded for the role, someone without a massy image, and someone the audience would watch with zero expectations."
Talking about the writing racy screenplay challenges. He said "I initially wrote two different screenplays for Custody. One screenplay I rejected is something we have seen in other films. It was like showing two stories happening at different places but at the same time. After some point in time, they collide. So I didn’t go ahead with it. Then I thought that only when Chaitanya gets to know about Arvind Swami in the film audience should also know about his character."
Sharing why he chose Powerful actors for key roles in custody. He said, "That’s what I actually wanted. I wanted someone more powerful than Chaitanya. There are two giants in the form of Arvind Swamy sir and Sarath Kumar sir. Chaitanya is small compared to them in the film, and the proceedings will be interesting as he needs to take care of a challenging situation."
Speaking about the film, he said, “From the pre-interval to the climax, ‘Custody’ delivers an edge-of-the-seat thriller. We have tailored this film to cater to the tastes of both Telugu and Tamil audiences. The subject matter is universal, ensuring that everyone can enjoy it. The screenplay maintains a fast-paced narrative, keeping viewers engaged throughout.”
The director says Chay’s character will be fresh and unique in the film. “Naga Chaitanya is an incredible actor. In this film, he will be seen in a new avatar. I enjoy presenting heroes differently in my movies, and I find it appealing to showcase Chay in a distinct manner. He looks very fresh and unique in this role. We have designed the action sequences in a highly innovative way. Everything about it feels fresh,” he said.
I have cast actors like Ajith in negative shades. Simbu had a fresh role in 'Maanaadu'. I have cast Chaitanya a new spin. I have shown him in a new light altogether," Venkat Prabhu says, suggesting that even the fans will be believable despite possessing a massy element.
Talking about why Siva title was rejected. He said "I am a big fan of the movie 'Siva' (directed by RGV and starring Nagarjuna). Even in Tamil, it was an acclaimed movie. Since the movie is so popular, I felt I should title 'Custody' as 'Siva'. Chay was reluctant because 'Siva' is a cult movie carrying so much weight and reputation. He asked me to opt for some other name."
Speaking about Krithi role in the film. He said "Krithi plays Revathi in the film. She is a driving school instructor. She is a very good actress. We wanted someone who would be quirky as well as mature. I was a bit hesitant to cast her initially. But when I met her, I was sure she was the right choice to play Revathi."
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