'There's a heavy play of emotions'

Candid conversation

Upendra may not be making one film after another but those he makes surely create an impact. Choosing subjects that are not only topical but also have an impact on the lives of ordinary men and women, Upendra makes the viewer  think beyond the big screen.

Fresh from the success of ‘Uppi 2’, Upendra has begun work on ‘Kalpana 2’, which is the Kannada remake of  ‘Kanchan 2’.

The actor never brags about his role, preferring to let his work do all the talking. Upendra is bang on when it comes to getting the right mix love, comedy and action in his directorials and in the films he acts. “I try to convey  emotions in the most subtle manner. I don’t believe in being loud and in the face when conveying something,” he explains.

Talking about his character in ‘Kalpana 2', Upendra says, that he plays a double role and that the film is a good mix of horror and comedy. “Can you imagine getting scared and being able to laugh at the same time? It seems like a difficult proposition but we have tried to bring this into the film. I think women and children will thoroughly love every character in the film,” says Upendra.

He says that in one role, he appears as ‘juttu Shiva’ sporting a ponytail and in the other, he comes in a normal avatar.

“There’s a heavy play of emotions for both the characters. But as an artiste, I never get tired of exploring and experimenting,” he adds. Upendra says that he has always tried to bring in some difference in every work of his. “It’s hard to strive to be different all the time but that’s the challenge I am willing to take up,” he states. 

The film also has actress Priyamani play a pivotal role opposite Upendra. “We chose Priyamani because she perfectly suits the requirements of the character. She is known for her natural performance. She is someone who is capable of portraying any role,” he adds.

He also states that the film has a lot of graphics. “We have used a lot of graphics but we have also made sure that we haven’t overdone it. Another striking element is the makeup for both my characters,” he adds.  

Upendra has already listened to a couple of scripts in Kannada but is yet to finalise any. He has also written one or two scripts.

Where does he get his ideas from? “Reports from  newspapers or whatever I see around. This triggers an idea in me and I try to develop it into a story,” he shares.