Chennai– Director Praveena Paruchuri, whose Telugu rural comedy Kothapallilo Okkapudu is set for release on July 18, has heaped praise on the Indian light crew that worked with her, especially their head Ramesh, for adapting seamlessly to the working style of her American cinematographer.
Speaking at a press event, Praveena—best known for producing the acclaimed C/o Kancharapalem—said:
“This is my third rural film, and I wanted it to stand out. So, I brought in a foreign cinematographer—Petros Antonladis, who is based in Los Angeles—to capture our villages through a fresh lens.”
Despite the unfamiliar workflow, she said the local lighting team rose to the occasion.
“Our lightmen, especially head Ramesh, were fantastic and very helpful. Petros had a different working style, but Ramesh adapted quickly. It was inspiring to see such collaboration.”
A US-based doctor-turned-filmmaker, Praveena said she had only planned to make one film initially.
“When I made C/o Kancharapalem, I thought that would be it. But your overwhelming love encouraged me to keep going. I made this new film with faith in the audience.”
She urged fans not to miss the theatrical release.
“Many told me they regretted missing C/o Kancharapalem in theatres. Don’t make the same mistake. Kothapallilo Okkapudu is very funny—it’ll make you laugh comfortably. But the second half also has my signature sensibility and thought-provoking moments.”
Starring Manoj Chandra and Monica T, the film is presented by Rana Daggubati’s Spirit Media and produced by Vijaya Praveena Arts, Paruchuri’s home banner. (Source: IANS)
