‘DJ Tillu’ is one of the films that has gained a cult following among the Telugu youth. The audience will not easily forget the entertainment provided by star boy Sidhu Jonnalagadda as Tilly. Tillu’s words and antics have earned an indelible place in the hearts of the audience. Now ‘Tillu Square’ is coming as the sequel of ‘DJ Tillu’. Anupama Parameswaran is playing the female lead in this film directed by Mallik Ram. Sitara Entertainments, Fortune Four Cinemas
Suryadevara Nagavanshi and Sai Saujanya are producing this film on the banner. Srikara Studios is presenting this film. There are huge expectations on this movie, which will be released in theaters worldwide on March 29. Recently, director Mallik Ram shared the features of the film with the media.
How did you get into the Tillu Square project?
I have known Sidhu since time immemorial. We both started our film journey almost at the same time. We have always wanted to do a film together. My first movie was Naruda Donaruda. After that, I did a movie called Aweem. In between I also did a web series called Pelli Gola. It was a huge hit. The movies DJ Tillu and Aweem came out around the same time. After that I and Sidhu thought we should make a film together. At the same time, Nagavamshi said that it would be good to do ‘Tillu Square’ and DJ Tillu director Vimal Krishna was busy with other commitments, so I came into this project. I was a bit hesitant at first but when the story got good, I didn’t take a step back.
DJ Tillu is a character created by someone else. Moreover, the protagonist got more fame than the director. Did you think in that direction before agreeing to a sequel?
Even the story of the movie is not mine. I have directed the story given by Prashant Varma. Naruda Donnaruda is also a remake. I liked that story very much. I can write stories..and screen stories written by others and do justice to them. Also I am happy that Sidhu is getting a name. Because I, Sidhu, Prashant Verma, Teja Sajja all of us have been working hard for almost 12 years to reach this level. Now we are doing movies together. So whoever gets the credit is happy.
How much will Sidhu’s involvement be in the film?
There are some news out there but there is no truth in them. As much as Sidhu is involved as a writer and actor, he will be involved. He gives the director the freedom that should be given to the director. We discussed how best to do it. Acts as a writer during story discussions. An actor does what he has to do during filming. I traveled with Sidhu for two years for this film. We made this movie in coordination. Tillu Square will not disappoint those who like DJ Tillu.
What will Tillu Square look like?
There is a difference between DJ tillu and tillu square. A black comedy set against the backdrop of DJ Tillu’s dead body. But Tillu Square is not like that. Like a commercial movie. Tillu’s character will remain the same. Radhika’s character will be mentioned. There will be some scenes linking the first part. Tillu Square gives you a new experience while reminding you of DJ Tillu.
How was the selection made?
Anupama is a great actress. Lily’s role in this movie is a challenging role. We considered many names for the role. But Anupam seemed to be the perfect choice. Lily’s character was not written with the intention of showing Anupamani boldly. Lily’s character is like that. We believe she can do justice to the role. She did hundred percent justice to the role.
Any chance of Tillu-3?
There are some ideas. There is a possibility in the future.
What is the reason for going to re-shoot?
After the interval, the opening scenes of the second half are easy in most movies. First off is good, climax is good. But those 15-20 minutes are not as expected. In the case of Tillu Square, some scenes were re-written and re-shot.
A sequel to a successful film? Are you under any pressure?
Stress is natural. But as the story was written well, I did not feel much pressure during the filming. After watching the whole movie, I am sure that it will please the audience.
Reason for changing music directors?
From earlier we thought we should go with DJ Tillu’s team. Songs by Ram Miriyala, Sricharan Pakala, background music by Thaman. Ram Miriyala gave two songs. Sricharan Pakala gave a song. That song went well. But as the situation changed there, another music director made a song with the mould. As Thaman was busy with other films and was not available, we took Bheems.
About Sitara organization?
Never talk about budget. Much is said about content and quality. Take the lead in promoting young talent. Happy to work under Sitara banner.
Will there be any message in the film?
We have shown the nature of some people, but we have not given the messages that don’t be like this and change.
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