Srikanth Shares Insights About His Role in Game Changer

Q: How do you feel about your characterization in the movie?

I believe my role in Game Changer is fresh and distinct compared to anything I’ve done recently. When they narrated the first half, I was curious why they thought of me for this character and wondered if I could do justice to it. But after hearing the second half, I was convinced—I had to take it up. It’s such a compelling role. Once the prosthetics were finalized and I got into the look, I felt confident I could deliver. Working with Shankar garu is a dream for many, and I feel fortunate to have such an important role in his film.

Q: How long did it take to finalize your look?

We went through a few designs initially. After testing two or three options, one design was finalized.

Q: Was it difficult to adapt to prosthetic makeup?

Yes, it was my first time using prosthetics, and it required immense patience. Getting into the makeup took 2–3 hours, and we couldn’t sweat for the rest of the day. Initially, it was challenging, but over time, I learned how to manage myself in that look.

Q: How was it working with Shankar garu?

Shankar garu is a proven director with a nationwide reputation. From day one, he made us feel comfortable. He’s patient and doesn’t hesitate to go for as many takes as needed. Having been an artist himself, he understands how to extract the best from his actors. His vision is clear, and he communicates it perfectly, making it easy for us to follow.

Q: Can you tell us more about your role in the movie?

I play the Chief Minister. The character has both positive and negative shades, which come into play depending on the situation. That’s all I can reveal—you’ll need to watch the film to know more.

Q: Did you draw any inspiration or references for your character?

The character is an aged Chief Minister. With the makeup and getup, the mannerisms—like a subdued energy, subtle dialogue delivery, and specific walking styles—came naturally.

Q: Shankar’s Oke Okkadu had a memorable CM character. How does your role compare?

For me, this character is a new dimension. It’s unique and unlike anything I’ve done before.

Q: Are you Ram Charan’s follower or friend in the movie?

(Laughs) You’ll have to watch the movie to find out whether I’m a follower, friend, or something else.

Q: Which actors do you share the most scenes with?

I have scenes with almost everyone—Charan, SJ Suryah, Jayaram, and Samuthirakani. SJ Suryah’s performance is remarkable. His character has layers of humor, cunning, and sarcasm, elevating it to another level.

Q: Were you skeptical about the role initially?

Yes, especially after hearing the first half of the story. But the second half, particularly the flashback, completely blew me away. It made me realize I had to do this role.

Q: What was your family’s reaction to your look?

My look was inspired by a photo of my late father. When I went home wearing the getup and teased my mother by calling her “Baby,” she was shocked. She couldn’t believe how much I resembled my father.

Q: How was it working with Ram Charan again?

It was fantastic. The last time we worked together was in Govindudu Andarivadele, where he played a youthful character. Now, he’s matured into a global star, taking on more performance-oriented roles like in Rangasthalam and RRR. In Game Changer, his dual roles are challenging and require immense experience, but he’s nailed it.

Q: Do you have a favorite role from your career?

I’ve enjoyed all my roles, but this one in Game Changer was the toughest. It’s unlike anything I’ve done before, and audiences will be surprised to see me on screen.

Q: What does Ram Charan call you?

He calls me “Anna.” He’s never called me “Babai” (laughs). Not just Charan—Bunny and Sai Dharam Tej also call me Anna.

Q: What’s your take on the trend of movies focusing on action and elevation scenes over story?

If these films are hits, it’s because audiences enjoy them. A strong combination of story and elevation scenes leads to bigger success.

Q: Does Game Changer strike a balance between story and commercial elements?

Absolutely. Shankar garu is known for strong stories. Despite some of his recent films not meeting expectations, he’s never failed as a director. Game Changer combines entertainment, political drama, and twists—it has all the ingredients of a blockbuster.

Q: What’s your opinion on Karthik Subbaraj writing the story for this film?

Karthik Subbaraj is a talented writer and director. If Shankar garu chose his story, it speaks volumes about how impressed he was.

Q: Is there a possibility of a sequel?

No, I believe Game Changer is a standalone film.

Q: The movie had a long shooting schedule. Was that difficult?

People think the shoot was unnecessarily prolonged, but it’s often due to managing actors’ schedules and specific getups. For instance, the Rajahmundry schedule went as planned, but aligning everyone’s availability over the span of 1.5 years was challenging.

Q: Any final thoughts on the movie?

Game Changer is a special project. With its story, cast, and Shankar garu’s vision, I’m confident it will be a massive success.