'UI' is a very interactive film. We have built a separate world for the movie. 'UI' will provide the audience with a surreal experience: Superstar Upendra

Superstar Upendra is ready to entertain audiences with the much-awaited futuristic extravaganza 'UI'. The film is produced with a high budget by Lahari Films, G. Manoharan, and Venus Entertainers, with K.P. Srikanth as the producer, along with Naveen Manoharan. Geetha Film Distributors will grandly release the film in Telugu. The film has created a huge buzz with sensational promotional content and is set to release on December 20. On this occasion, Superstar Upendra shared details about the film during a press conference.

How did the concept of 'UI' originate?

 In our education system, we were taught things like A for Apple, B for Bat, and so on. We absorbed what they told us without questioning it, which has turned into a system. This has reduced our thinking capacity. If they had asked us to come up with other words for A for Apple, our thoughts would have been different. In my stories, I always try to convey a new idea or thought.

 The idea for 'UI' came about in a similar manner. You and I... we share the same story. Are you thinking what I’m thinking? When we cross-check, we find that our thoughts align. If I feel something, you feel it too. This film is interactive with the audience, who will decode many aspects while watching. We have made this film metaphorical.

I believe that the audience sitting in the theater is the real star. I confirmed this with my first film. The audience is above the filmmaker. With this film, the audience will interact.

Did Aamir Khan also show interest in your film?

Aamir Khan is a very big star. It is a great joy that he liked our film. That speaks to his greatness. He talked about our movie, which helped us a lot.

You often convey a strong message in your films. How did you gain the courage to tell such stories?

 I don’t know why. I feel like I should convey through films. There’s a saying that angels fear the path to heaven... perhaps I am walking that path with a gut feeling (laughs).

 I think all of this is a reflection of the greatness of the audience. It gives me immense joy to see how well they decode and remember my films.

The film has complex themes similar to Warner's 'Kalki'. Can you tell us about that?

 In that film, we saw the mythological Kalki. In this one, we will see the psychological Kalki (laughs).

Your character is very new. What kind of care did you take regarding the look?

There is a significant process involved in the look. One year goes into the script, and another year is spent on the look and character design.

What about the technical aspects of 'UI'?

 Our director Shivakumar created a surreal world. We designed very different sets. Initially, the sets may appear strange, but upon decoding, their meaning becomes clear.

Ajaneesh Loknath's music is a big plus point for this film. He is one of the most successful music directors in the pan-Indian scene. He dedicated a lot of time and provided wonderful music. We recorded in Hungary, and it turned out very well.

What is the runtime of the movie?

It will be two hours and ten minutes long. I don’t like to drag any topic unnecessarily. The film moves at a fast pace.

What was the reason for not making another film in Telugu after 'Son of Satyamurthy'?

 Allu Arjun is my favorite actor, and I am a fan of him. I also really like Trivikram. It was a great joy to work in 'Son of Satyamurthy' with both of them. After that film, I received several story offers, but I couldn’t take them up due to my ongoing movie works.

Do you have plans to make sequels for your films?

No, I do not think about making part twos for my stories. I want to tell new stories. If the audience wants a second part after watching this film, then I will think about it (laughs).

In your stories, do you focus more on those who suffer rather than those who cause suffering? What do you think about that?

You are correct. We often talk about problems, but no one discusses solutions. Providing solutions is much more difficult. I try to convey that the solution is right here; think about it. Some people will understand it, while others may simply enjoy the movie and leave 

Your films often feature very different concepts. Have you faced any issues with censorship?

I faced significant issues with the film 'Om'. After that, when they saw my 'A' film, they left saying, "This film is unfit for release." Later, the revision committee gave an extraordinary certification. My stories and screenplays are different, and that’s probably why they reacted that way. For this film, they didn’t ask for any cuts.

Is it your intention to make films that make the audience think?

No, cinema is always an entertainment medium. The audience comes to movies for entertainment. Commercial elements should be present. This film also has songs, fights, good music, and visual grandeur. On a normal viewing, it seems like a good movie. But if you go a little deeper, you will find another layer. Going even deeper, you will see a political angle, and if you go further, you will find a philosophical angle. I have tried to include everything. We will see how the audience reacts.

As a filmmaker, do you ever think about making changes?

 Who am I to change anyone? I can’t even change myself. I don’t give messages. I have said the same in this film (laughs).

What changes have occurred in film technology over the years?

A lot has changed. Now, you can sit in a room and make a film. However, it all depends on how we use the technology.

Your posters are very unique. Can you tell us about that?

An artist named Nagabhushan designs them. I like designing them in a surrealistic way. The audience will decode the title after watching the movie.

What do you think about the producers?

 Everyone says the captain of the ship is important. But I say the owner of the ship is important (laughs). The credit for spending so much on this film goes to the producers. They took a personal interest in making it and provided a lot of support.

 The film is a collective effort with contributions from artists and technicians. It’s all about teamwork.

You are working on the film 'Coolie' with Rajinikanth. How does that feel?

 Working with him is a dream of my life. I am like Ekalavya to him. It’s a wonderful experience to make a film with him.

All the best.

 Thank you.