Arjun Chakravarthy
Interview with Vikrant Rudra
Vikrant Rudra is a promising new voice in Indian cinema, making his directorial debut with the highly anticipated film Arjun Chakravarthy: Journey of an Unsung Champion. Known for his passion for storytelling and his meticulous attention to detail, Vikrant brings a fresh perspective and a deep commitment to authenticity in his first major project. Arjun Chakravarthy is a sports drama based on the true story of a kabaddi player who represented India in the 1980s. Vikrant's dedication to accurately portraying the physical, mental, and emotional challenges of the protagonist is evident in his thorough research and heartfelt direction. His ability to blend intense sports action with poignant, emotional storytelling sets this film apart. Vikrant's debut film aims to inspire and entertain, shedding light on the often-overlooked sport of kabaddi and the incredible athletes who play it. With Arjun Chakravarthy, Vikrant Rudra establishes himself as a director to watch, promising a future filled with more powerful and moving stories. His unique vision and dedication to his craft make him a standout talent in the film industry.
What is your project about?
The remarkable true story of Indian kabaddi player Arjun Chakravarthy is told in the inspirational sports drama Arjun Chakravarthy: Journey of an Unsung Champion. His guardian's ambition of winning a gold medal for the nation is what drives him to pursue his goals with tenacity, passion, and unflinching dedication. Arjun is a source of inspiration for aspiring sportsmen because of his journey, which is a testament to conquering societal, emotional, and physical obstacles. In addition to showcasing thrilling sporting action, the movie delves deeper into themes of tenacity, selflessness, and achievement.
What are your ambitions with your project?
My goal with Arjun Chakravarthy is to inspire millions of people by raising awareness of the kabaddi sport, which is frequently disregarded. Especially for young athletes who aspire to represent their country but encounter several challenges, I want to leave a lasting impression. This movie isn't just about athletics; it's also about passion and pushing limits. I want this tale to inspire people to aim high, keep going, and never give up—regardless of the circumstances.
Tell us something about your shooting? What pleasantly surprised you?
The experience of filming Arjun Chakravarthy was unlike any other. We had to meticulously pay attention to every detail in order to recreate the 1980s mood as accurately as possible. The commitment of the ensemble, particularly Vijaya Rama Raju, the lead actor, pleasantly surprised me. To capture the spirit and physicality of the character, he underwent extensive training in kabaddi. I was also taken aback by the emotional depth that surfaced during the shooting. It was amazing to see the performers' genuine, passionate attachment to the narrative.
For what group of spectators is your film targeted?
This movie is for everyone who thinks that dreams can come true. It is aimed for families, sports fans, and anybody who appreciates a compelling underdog tale. Fundamentally, though, Arjun Chakravarthy speaks to young people and encourages them to tenaciously pursue their goals. The film conveys a message of endurance in the face of hardship that is universal and cuts across age, nationality, and sports.
Why should distributors buy your film?
Arjun Chakravarthy is an emotional rollercoaster that engages viewers on a personal level; it's more than just a sports movie. This kind of story appeals to a wide audience because it upholds ideals that are universal, such as commitment, perseverance, and the strength of dreams. Distributors ought to purchase this movie since it is a crowd-pleaser that blends emotional storyline with action-packed kabaddi scenes. It presents a novel story from India, a nation rich in unrealised possibilities for international sports dramas.
How would you specify your work? What characterizes your film?
Arjun Chakravarthy is an emotional rollercoaster that engages viewers on a personal level; it's more than just a sports movie. This kind of story appeals to a wide audience because it upholds ideals that are universal, such as commitment, perseverance, and the strength of dreams. Distributors ought to purchase this movie since it is a crowd-pleaser that blends emotional storyline with action-packed kabaddi scenes. It presents a novel story from India, a nation rich in unrealised possibilities for international sports dramas.
Why did you decide to become a filmmaker?
My interest has always been narrative, so I chose to become a filmmaker. Cinema has the potential to influence lives, elicit emotions, and shift viewpoints. Telling stories that matter and have an influence that lasts a lifetime was something I wanted to be a part of. I can express myself through filmmaking in a way that engages viewers on a deeper level.
Who is your role model?
Filmmakers like Christopher Nolan and Rajkumar Hirani have always been heroes to me. While Nolan's strategy of pushing cinematic boundaries with imaginative storytelling thrills me, Hirani's ability to strike a balance between entertainment and social messaging is inspirational. Long after the credits have rolled, viewers are still thinking about the profound, powerful films that both directors make.
Which movies are your favorites? Why?
The films Lagaan, Inception, and Dangal are a few of my favourites. My particular favourite is Lagaan because it skilfully combines theatre, sports, and history to create a stirring story about persevering in the face of adversity. The ingenuity and intricacy of Inception astound me, and the motivating message and realistic depiction of a sportsman's journey in Dangal speak to me.
Where do you look for inspiration for your films?
Real-life accounts of bravery, resiliency, and the human spirit serve as my motivation. I come across tales of common individuals accomplishing remarkable things—unsung heroes. In addition, Indian mythology and history provide me with a wealth of rich narratives that beg to be recounted in a modern context.
Which topics interest you the most?
Stories of underdogs, human resiliency, and personal development most appeal to me. I like to investigate topics of tenacity, social issues, and emotional development. Because sports and real-world difficulties are so similar, I find it fascinating when people use sports as a metaphor for life.
What do you consider your greatest achievement in your career?
Directing my first feature film, Arjun Chakravarthy, has been my proudest accomplishment to date. I have a lot of emotional attachment to this story, and making it a reality has been immensely fulfilling. Recipient recognition from international film festivals is partly a result of my team's collective effort.
What do you consider most important about filming?
Genuineness. Staying faithful to the tale and its characters is, in my opinion, the most crucial component of filmmaking. When a movie is sincere, audiences can tell, and that connection is vital. Real emotions should be evoked and the substance of the characters' experiences should be captured in filmmaking.
Which film technique of shooting do you consider the best?
I support a blend of conventional and contemporary methods. I adore the grace that comes with wide-angle shots, particularly in sports films, but I equally adore the fluidity of handheld shots for private moments. Emotional and visual depth can be developed by striking a balance between close-ups and wide shots.
How would you rate/What is your opinion about current filmmaking?
Filmmaking today is at a fascinating turning point. Digital technology has given filmmakers greater creative latitude than in the past. But it's also critical to strike a balance by using poignant narrative. Although technology improves looks, a great movie's plot is its most important component.
What can disappoint you in a movie?
a shallow narrative style. It is frustrating when a movie lacks depth or a strong emotional core. A strong story and well-rounded characters are what really connect with viewers; impressive special effects and celebrity endorsements can only take a film so far.
Who supports you in your film career?
I consider myself lucky to have had the steadfast support of my friends, family, and the amazing team on Arjun Chakravarthy. This journey has been fuelled by their unwavering support and conviction in my goal.