The title Country Pistol has been doing the rounds for a long time now. First, rumours had it that the movie would be directed by Suri and have Puneeth Rajkumar playing the lead. Then came the news that Yash would be starring in it. Now there is a whole new turn.

The film will be a launch pad for writer, screenplay writer and actor Ajay Kumar’s son Suryan, which is the young talent’s screen name. The project, produced by Ramesh Kashyap, will be helmed by Chandrashekar Bandiyappa.

Ajay Kumar has been in this industry for more than two decades, and is known for his film scripts such as for Tavarige Baa Thangi, Laali Haadu, Tavarina Siri, with his latest being Crazy Boy. Now his son, standing tall at 6 foot 5 inches, is set to face the camera for Country Pistol, which will be launched end of August.

Chandrashekar Bandiyappa, who is currently directing Tarakasura, featuring Vaibhav, is readying the script for Country Pistol. “I had initially titled my film with Vaibhav, Country Pistol, and then came to know from the chamber that this title was already registered with producer Ramesh Kashyap under Simhadri Productions. And I heard from writer Ajay Kumar that they were doing a film in that name. I had also read that director Suri was keen on directing the movie with Puneeth Rajkumar, and then I heard Yash was to star in it, so I decided to work on Tarakasura instead,” says the director. “But, last Ugadi, Ajay Kumar called me and asked if I would be interested in a project by this title, in which his son Suryan would play the lead,” he adds.

Apparently, the director caught the attention of the senior story writer with his last film Rathaavara, starring Sriimurali. “My approach to that film is what landed me this project,” he says.

The filmmaker is currently working on the look for the young actor and Suryan will be getting a makeover for his first film. The photoshoot will be done in the next ten days.

The director says that he is already floored by the actor’s dedication, and is confident that he will do well in Sandalwood. “He is hero material,” says Chandrashekar, adding, “I am glad to introduce him to the industry. I met him when he was training to play a hero.”

Country Pistol should do well with a newcomer and the makers say that they will make an official announcement about the movie once they finalise the rest of the cast.