Kannada superstar Upendra is all set to entertain audiences with his much-awaited futuristic film UI. The film is produced on a high budget by Lahari Films, G. Manoharan, and Venus Entertainers, with K.P. Sreekanth as producer and Naveen Manoharan as co-producer. Geetha Film Distributors is releasing the film in Telugu on a grand scale. With sensational promotional content creating huge buzz, the film is scheduled for release on December 20, 2024. During a recent press meet, Upendra shared several insights about the film.
How did the concept of UI begin?
In our education system, we are taught “A for Apple, B for Bat” and so on. We memorized what was taught without questioning it. This became a system, and our thinking capacity diminished. If we had been taught different words for “A” back then, our thoughts might have evolved differently.
The idea of UI came from a similar thought. “U and I” – there’s a common story between you and me. Are you thinking the same way I am? When we cross-check, we realize our thoughts are similar. What I feel is what you feel. This is an interactive film where audiences will decode many things as they watch. The movie is metaphorical.
Your films carry a certain intensity. Where does that courage come from?
Honestly, I don’t know. I just share what I feel through my movies. There’s a saying: “A fool will tread where angels fear to go.” Maybe I’m walking with that gut feeling (laughs). I consider it the greatness of audiences that they decode my films so well and remember them. That gives me immense happiness. In Kalki 2898 AD, you saw the mythological version. In UI, you will see the psychological Kalki.
Your character looks very unique. How did you approach the look?
The look for this film involved a lengthy process. If one year was spent on the script, another year was spent designing the look and character.
What about the technical values of UI?
Our art director Shivakumar created a surreal world. The sets we designed are very unique. Initially, they may seem strange, but once decoded, the meaning behind them becomes clear. Ajaneesh Loknath’s music is a big plus point for the movie. He is one of the most successful pan-India music directors. He dedicated a lot of time to this project, and the music turned out wonderfully. We recorded in Hungary, and the result was brilliant.
Do you have plans to make sequels to your films?
No, I don’t think of making part 2 for any of my stories. I always look for new stories to tell. But if audiences demand a second part after watching this movie, I might consider it.
What do you have to say about the producers of UI?
Everyone says the director is the captain of the ship, but I say the owner of the ship is more important (laughs). The credit for making UI on such a large scale goes to the producers. They took a personal interest and gave immense support. This film is a result of the contributions of artists, technicians, and the entire team. It’s all teamwork.
You’re working with Rajinikanth in Coolie. How does it feel?
Working with Rajinikanth sir is my life’s dream. I consider myself an Ekalavya shishya of Rajinikanth. Collaborating with him has been a wonderful experience.