In a recent revelation, celebrated Kannada actor and filmmaker Upendra shared the deeply personal and instinctive reasons behind his decision to be a part of the upcoming film '45'. Contrary to what might seem like a calculated career move, his choice was rooted in trust and a powerful connection to the narrative's core.
A Decision Based on Instinct and Trust
Upendra's long-standing friendship with music composer-turned-director Arjun Janya certainly played a part, but the clincher was the director's unique approach to storytelling. Upendra was drawn to Arjun's process of working through scripts, stripping them down to their essence, and retaining only what truly matters. "It reminded me of myself," Upendra admits, highlighting a shared creative vision.
He also expressed immense respect for the sheer scale of effort involved in the project. "The animation, cinema planning, re-recording, dubbing, VFX — all of which demanded time, money, and meticulous preparation. Arjun spent a lot of time on it," Upendra said, acknowledging the director's commitment to holding the complex project together.
The Intrigue of '45' and a Layered Character
The very title of the film, '45', sparked Upendra's curiosity. While many interpretations exist—such as the moments suspended between life and death—this philosophical space fascinated him. "What happens in those minutes?" he pondered. It was this exploration of the unseen, the uncomfortable, and the in-between that he found compelling.
The character he portrays further solidified his interest. Upendra describes it as powerful, layered, and far from familiar territory. "Violent, yes — but not one-dimensional. There are different shades to it. The character felt authentic, special, and necessary to the narrative," he explained, emphasizing its complexity.
Upendra's Storytelling Mantra: The Art of Elimination
For Upendra, effective storytelling is defined not by addition, but by elimination. His creative process is a strict filter. "There will be so many ideas," he explains, "But the focus is on what is not okay." This philosophy of cutting away the excess has guided his choices, even when it meant letting go of stories that were ahead of their time.
This principle remains unwavering, even when collaborating with others. "Every role I accept is one I am fully convinced about," he states firmly, implying that saying 'no' is as crucial as saying 'yes' in his artistic journey.
On Kannada Cinema's Promising Present
Looking at the current landscape of Kannada cinema, Upendra sees an interesting and promising phase. He notes that filmmakers are experimenting, pushing boundaries, and attempting new forms of storytelling. "We are all trying something new," he says, calling it a good time for the industry.
While he admits that not every new story excites him, he believes in the real possibility of strong narratives changing the DNA of Kannada cinema. Known for his own cult filmography that reshaped audience expectations, Upendra prefers to stay focused on the present. "I prefer to remain focused on the present — on whether stories today have the power to make a difference," he concludes, optimistic about the future.
