Latest news with #Tharun
New Indian Express
4 days ago
- Entertainment
- New Indian Express
Vishnu: I'm still half-baked at work
How did your journey in films begin? Honestly, I was never really into films. Even now, I feel like I'm still half-baked at work! I began as a photographer right after college. Some of my college friends from Hyderabad Public School were connected to Tharun Bhascker. One of his friends, who was also a photographer, needed an assistant and I jumped at the opportunity. Through Kishore, I met Tharun and started shooting with him. Pelli Choopulu came later, but before that, one of Tharun's friends made a short film Four Is A Mob, and Tharun saw me in it. He pitched me in Sainma, and that opened doors. But I knew I wasn't ready. I lacked confidence in acting and tried everything to avoid film sets. Funny thing, Tharun offered me a role in Pelli Choopulu as a photographer named Vishnu. It was practically written for me, but due to some delays, I couldn't do it. I was present throughout the film's making, though, and watching everyone else act, I felt a strange jealousy. Vijay Deverakonda, who I knew from college, told me I should've done it and pitched me Taxiwaala. I auditioned, got selected, and received some good feedback. But that set was nothing like Tharun's, it felt too mechanical. The project dragged for over a year, and I lost interest again. Then, a friend from Ee Nagaraniki Emaindi offered me Skylab with Nithya Menen. I shot one day, and COVID hit. Eventually, we resumed, and I was stuck at a director friend's place. We'd exchange ideas daily. Skylab didn't do well commercially, but working with Nithya ma'am taught me so much, her eye for detail, her professionalism. Then came MAD. Director Kalyan Shankar was excited and told me, 'We start shooting in three days.' I needed the work, so I said yes. They liked what I did on day 1. Around the same time, Tharun asked me to read a script. I suggested I do the role of Sikandar instead, he liked the idea, gave me audition material, and I worked hard. He approved it, and that's how Keedaa Cola happened. It all felt like Sainma again. MAD and Keedaa broke the shackles for me. They gave me the confidence I never had. Then MAD 2 came along, and we just wanted to make something funny. Looking back, I realise what Tharun sowed in me and during Sainma it really took root. That's a life lesson, I owe him a lot.
New Indian Express
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- New Indian Express
Tharun Kishore Sudhir's next production starring Raanna and Priyanka Achar titled Elumale
Elumale draws from the real-life story that occurred in the early 2000s. 'The name Elumale itself is rooted in the geography and culture of the region,' Tharun explained. 'It refers to the seven hills (elu = seven, male = hill) that form a spiritual and geographical border between the two states. It's also the very place, Charamrajnagar, where Dr. Rajkumar was born," he added. Billed as an intense love thriller, Elumale unfolds against the backdrop of Male Mahadeshwara Betta — a revered hill region bordering Karnataka and Tamil Nadu. The film, set primarily during the night, explores a cross-border love story between a boy from Chamarajanagar in Karnataka and a girl from Salem district in Tamil Nadu.
Hindustan Times
14-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Hindustan Times
Alappuzha Gymkhana star Lukman Avaran: 'Tharun Moorthy called me for Thudarum but...'
Lukman Avaran is garnering praise for his power-packed performance as Antony Joshua in Alappuzha Gymkhana, which is currently available to stream on OTTplay Premium and Sony LIV. The young actor revealed in an exclusive interview with OTTplay that director Tharun Moorthy had called him to play a small part in the Mohanlal-led hit, but that did not pan out because he was getting ready for Khalid Rahman's sports drama. He went on to say that both films were filmed almost simultaneously. Stream Malayalam's best action thriller such as Ajagajantharam, Chaaver and more on OTTplay Premium Tharun's latest directorial Thudarum, starring Mohanlal, turned out to be among the highest grossers in Malayalam this year. Lukman starred in Tharun's debut directorial, Operation Java, and Saudi Vellakka, that are available on OTTplay Premium. 'Excited for both Operation Java 2 and Ajagajantharam 2' The Saudi Vellaka star expressed his enthusiasm for the sequels of Operation Java and Ajagajantharam. "I cannot decide which one I find more exciting. My biggest break came from Operation Java, and Ajagajantharam is a Tinu Pappachan film," he remarked. Lukman continued by saying that although talks for Operation Java 2 had been held for a long time, Tharun's hectic schedule prompted the delay. "I am excited to collaborate with the filmmakers once more since they hold a special place in my life," he continued. Lukman also featured in Ajagajantharam, starring Antony Varghese Pepe. Last year, there were rumours of a sequel to this popular action drama, much to the delight of moviegoers and Antony Varghese Pepe fans. Although there have not been many updates, sources indicate that the script is being worked on and that the project may begin by the end of 2025. Additionally, Lukman disclosed that he has finished filming a brand-new Malayalam web series that will be available for viewing on Sony LIV and OTTplay Premium. "The post-production work of this project is ongoing and hopefully there will be an official announcement soon," he stated, adding that he is currently unable to provide many details about the series.
Time of India
04-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
‘Filmmaking is my first love, acting happened by accident'
Tharun Bhascker burst onto the scene with Pelli Choopulu, a film that not only revitalised Telugu rom-coms but also cemented his reputation as a bold new voice in indie storytelling. What truly sets him apart, however, is the seamless transition he's made from director to actor — an evolution few filmmakers attempt, and even fewer pull off. What began as blink-and-miss cameos in his own films gradually evolved into complex, meatier roles that showcased his versatility. Today, he stands as a rare talent who wears multiple hats — director, actor, voice actor and writer. In a candid chat with Hyderabad Times, Tharun reflects on this shift from calling the shots to taking direction, his upcoming projects, and why the director in him will always have the final word. 'Adapting to a Godavari accent changed a lot for me' Currently shooting for the Telugu remake of the Malayalam blockbuster Jaya Jaya Jaya Hey, Tharun steps into a role that's a stark departure from his real-life persona. 'He's a deeply insecure man who asserts dominance in disturbing ways — that felt completely alien to me,' he shares. The challenge, however, was part of the appeal. 'It pushed me to tap into emotions I didn't even know I had. I had to unlearn my Telangana accent and adopt a Godavari dialect. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Giao dịch CFD với công nghệ và tốc độ tốt hơn IC Markets Đăng ký Undo That lived-in experience changed me as a performer. I feel more prepared now to write characters from that region with authenticity,' he says. 'I don't mind being the antagonist or even just a side character' Though he's received acclaim for his on-screen performances in films like Sita Ramam and Mahanati, the National Award-winning director is clear about priorities: 'I treat acting as a secondary profession. Directing is my core.' That clarity gives him space to explore unusual or offbeat roles. 'I'm not chasing the lead role. I don't mind playing the antagonist or a quirky side character — even if it doesn't always work in my favour. ' His approach has become more fluid over time. 'Initially, acting felt lonely and mentally draining. Your success depends on so many external things — dialogues, styling, promotions. And when it fails, it feels personal, even if it's not.' 'We seek therapy in cinema — it becomes a shared emotion' Cinema, for Tharun, is more than a profession, it's a social and emotional ritual. 'We're just cinema lovers,' he says. 'I see a lot of people crying after watching movies who usually don't cry. I think it evokes some sense of emotion inside them… it's like therapy for us. Movies have a similar effect, if not more. That's why we have a religious attachment towards films, its makers and the heroes we worship.' 'I still see myself as a timid, introverted person' Acting may seem like a natural progression for many filmmakers, but for Tharun, it came more by accident than design. 'I've always been timid and introverted — I still am. Entering the industry pushed me far out of my comfort zone,' he says. However, support from some of his close friends played a pivotal role in marking the shift. 'People like Vishwak Sen, Vijay Deverakonda and Nag Ashwin really encouraged me. But a rude awakening came during Pelli Choopulu promotions when I was trolled for something I said on a TV promo. That's when I realised how brutal public life can be. People will judge everything except your actual talent.' Quote: Comedy has always been my comfort zone, but I'm a huge fan of the Russo Brothers and their exploration of darker themes like death and grief. My goal has always been to dive into different genres and discover new layers I can bring to them - Divya Shree Check out our list of the latest Hindi , English , Tamil , Telugu , Malayalam , and Kannada movies . Don't miss our picks for the best Hindi movies , best Tamil movies, and best Telugu films .
Time of India
30-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Malayalam OTT Releases: 'Thudarum' to ‘Jerry': Must-watch Malayalam OTT releases this week!
Get ready for an exciting lineup of Malayalam films hitting OTT platforms this week! From gripping thrillers to heartfelt dramas, these four new releases promise captivating stories and stellar performances. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now Dive into the vibrant world of Malayalam cinema with these fresh titles! 'Thudarum' Set against the serene backdrop of Ranni's hill town, Thudarum is a compelling drama that weaves a tale of human connections and personal struggles. This film explores emotional depth and resilience, making it a must-watch for fans of storytelling with heart. Now streaming on OTT. ETimes gave the film a rating of 3 stars, and our review read, 'Tharun, whose last film Saudi Vellakka won a National Awards, could have done better to have created a more subtle story; this very much has an '80s-'90s feel. For Mohanlal fans, his raw magnetism might be exciting, but with its loud and overwritten scenes, the acting lacks nuance all around.' Alappuzha Gymkhana | Song - Panjara Punch A vibrant narrative packed with local flavor, Alappuzha Gymkhana dives into the cultural tapestry of Kerala's backwaters. This film blends humor and drama, offering a fresh perspective on community dynamics. Catch it on SonyLIV starting June 5, 2025. ETimes review for the Naslen starrer read, 'Alappuzha Jimkhana may not offer the highs of Thallumaala, nor does it aim to. This is a slice-of-life narrative about kids who dream in fragments and grow up learning that sometimes the greatest win is just to stay on your feet. ' Jerry - Official Trailer 'Jerry' brings a light-hearted yet poignant story to the screen, focusing on relatable characters navigating life's quirks. Perfect for viewers seeking a mix of comedy and emotion, this film is available on SimplySouth from May 30, 2025. The movie features Kottayam Nazeer, Pramod Velliyanad and many others in pivotal roles. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now Big Ben - Official Teaser A thrilling ride with unexpected twists, Big Ben keeps you on the edge with its engaging plot and dynamic performances. This Malayalam gem is ideal for those craving suspense and drama, streaming on SunNxt as of May 30, 2025. This thriller film features Anu Mohan, Vinay Forrt, Vijay Babu and Aditi Ravi in pivotal roles.
