With Thammudu slated for a July 4 release, noted producer Dil Raju has become the face of the film and has been promoting it, unlike his previous projects. Directed by Sriram Venu of Vakeelsaab fame and starring Nithiin in the lead, the film is billed as an action-heavy, single-day narrative with top-notch visuals and sound design. Speaking about the film, Dil Raju says, “There are five or six solid action sequences. This film is made for the theatrical experience, and we want audiences to enjoy it fully. If this were a light entertainer like Sankranthiki Vasthunnam, we’d ask families to come. But Thammudu is a serious action film. Even if only the theatre-going audience enjoys it, that’s enough for us.”
Thammudu, he reveals, took 150 days to shoot, with nearly 80 per cent of it filmed in a forest. “Director Sriram Venu focused on visuals and sound. We want people to feel it in the cinema hall,” he says. The film also marks the return of Laya to the silver screen and features performances by Varsha Bollamma and Sapthami Gowda, with music by Kantara composer Ajaneesh Loknath.
Raju, who also serves as FDC Chairman, is vocal about industry issues, particularly piracy. “We’re tightening security. Four people were arrested recently for recording in theatres. Small films’ pirated prints go for $400, big ones for $1,000. That’s crores of loss for us,” he says and adds, “The central government is supporting anti-piracy efforts, and we’re taking it one step at a time.”
He is equally candid about reviews and online criticism. “Reviewers should consider the producer’s effort. Directors and actors feel it, yes, but the producer takes the biggest hit. If I speak out, people say I have an attitude. But the truth is, the risk is ours,” he says.
On scripting and story, Raju credits Sriram with pushing boundaries. “We all want something fresh. This film is simple at its core, a conflict between a brother and sister, but the screenplay and action make it different,” he says.
Dil Raju also touches on his initiative, Dil Raju Dreams, aimed at mentoring new talent. “We received over 12,000 applications. After scrutiny, we shortlisted 1,400. From 81 producer applicants, we selected seven after verifying company details. We’re supporting new producers in two ways: either by funding the film or by helping them release it under our banner,” he explains.
While questions have swirled around future collaborations, particularly with Allu Arjun and Prashanth Neel, Raju is cautious. “I’m not going to comment on projects like Ravanam. Let’s focus on Thammudu now,” he says. “We’ve already confirmed films like Vijay Deverakonda’s Rowdy Janardhana, Yellamma, and Dethadi, all set for next year.”
When asked if Thammudu will have a premiere, he says, “We’re considering it. But as FDC Chairman, I have to ensure everything is done properly.” He also notes that Netflix has already acquired the digital rights after viewing the film.
As the theatrical release draws near, Dil Raju remains focused but philosophical. He says, “As a producer, I believe in preparing a good film and releasing it properly. If the audience likes it, the success will follow. That’s all I can control.”
