'I have not done a film like Amrutham Chandamamalo'

Avasarala Srinivas has been acting in Telugu films since his debut in Ashta Chamma.

His latest film is the space comedy Amrutham Chandamamalo, by Gangaraju Gunnam.

The talented actor, who is also a writer and director, is proud to be part of the film and shares his experience about working in it in this exclusive chat.

How did you come to act in Amrutham Chandamamalo?

Gangaraju garu approached me and gave me the script. I knew it was going to be a good movie. I liked the script.

Had you seen the TV serial Amrutham (on which the film is based) beforestarting the film?

I had not. I was tempted to see it after I signed the movie. But I deliberately didn’t see it because I did not want to imitate the character.

Is this a one-of-a kind film?

I have not done a film like this. I don’t think I will do a film like this in future.

I am proud to be part of a film like this.

How did you play the role of Amrutham?

More than understanding the character, it was the director’s style that was peculiar.

You can see a certain style and innocence in every character written by him. Even the bad guys are written like that.

There is a certain feel, a warmth. It is a challenge to retain that naivety and innocence in the acting.

Were the working conditions difficult with heavy space suits and all that fly ash?

When we got the suits and put them on, we realised they had not been tested.

I wore the helmet and realised I could not breathe! I am asthmatic and felt suffocated, so it was re-designed, with holes and lights inside.

Three people were needed to help me put on the suit and take it off!

The backpack was quite heavy. We were suspended from a harness for many hours in a day. 

 We had shoes with springs. It was difficult to walk with them or even stand.

We could not hear each other when the helmets were on.  We would get cues from other people.

You have good comic timing. Have you always had it?

I don’t know. I think it comes from trying to escape from things. If someone says something serious then one tries to say a witty remark to come out of it.

Do you think Gangaraju took a risk by doing this film?

I don’t know about risk. I am not sure many producers would have attempted this kind of film.

To believe in a story and nothing else and to spend money to tell that story is the mark of a good filmmaker. It is a bold move.

You are directing your own film Oohalu Gusagusalaade now?

I am done with directing my film. It may release in June.

Will you be juggling acting and direction?

Yes, I will. If there is something interesting, I will work on it. Otherwise I will work on my stories.

I will keep working as an actor and writer. Like a writer said ‘A good story writes itself.’