'Puneeth Rajkumar is a disciplined student'

Action speaks louder than words, goes the famous adage. However, Peter Hein, top-rated stunt choreographer believes that action and story go hand in hand. “There are times when a film’s story doesn’t match the action sequences. I believe that both need to gel,” says Peter in this interview with Cinema Express about his work on Puneeth Rajkumar’s upcoming film, Natasaarvabhouma, directed by Pavan Wadeyar.

“This film sounded interesting when I first heard the story. With a good concept and with a multi-talented star like Puneeth in the picture, I also got an opportunity to try out different kinds of action sequences. His performance was enhanced by his look, body language, style, and grace. I have tried to make the stunt sequences as natural as possible,” explains Peter, adding that in spite of being a star, Puneeth was a disciplined student who followed his instructions and suggestions. “Puneeth’s got substance, but I’d like him to experiment more. I look forward to working with him in the future,” says the stunt choreographer who has worked on six action block sequences in Natasaarvabhouma.  

Peter was glad to be given ample freedom by the producer (Rockline Venkatesh) who did not restrict him in any manner. “Freedom for a stunt choreographer is important. At the same time, I don’t like to cross the line, because directors have their own vision of the film. To me, the director is the captain. He will have an idea about the overall story, including stunts,” he says. 

The action choreographer, who has worked on over 150 films, is currently busy with Shankar’s Indian 2. “I don’t look at stunts as risky. I am passionate about my job and ensure safety at every step. I don’t believe in going in unprepared. After all, I am responsible for my team,” he says.

Meanwhile, Peter has just completed shooting for his debut directorial, Sam Hoi (Repent / Regret). “Both the shooting and the dubbing are done. Right now, the music and special effects are being worked on. The film will be released in Vietnam and China. I am planning to release it in India because I have made a name here. I am also curious to know how the audience will receive me as a director,” says the stunt choreographer, who found that while filmmakers are ready to invest between Rs 4 crore and Rs 30 crore for action sequences, things are different when it comes to funding a film. “This is not the case when it comes to doing a movie. My first project will be a test, and they can judge my directing capabilities,” says the first time director, adding that Sam Hoi is a story based on real-life incidents. “I didn’t take much time to script it because it includes details from my own experiences,” he adds.