Filmmaker Ram Gopal Varma’s directorial “Ponnu” Press Meet!

Critically acclaimed moviemaker Ram Gopal Varma, far-famed for his cult movies is back with his latest outing titled ‘Ladki’, produced by Artsee Media Production in association with Indo/Chinese Co Production. It’s India’s first-ever movie based on martial arts. The movie featuring a female protagonist as the titular character is getting released in Tamil as ‘Ponnu’. Martial Arts champion Pooja Bhalekar is playing the protagonist role in this movie, who stuns the crowds with her jaw-dropping stunts. The movie, scheduled for worldwide theatrical release shortly had its press meet held in Chennai this evening (July 11, 2022).

Here are some excerpts from the event.

Director Ram Gopal Varma said, “This movie is very challenging and close to my heart. Bruce Lee has been my greatest favourite personality since my college days. I have never missed watching his movie. The Indian movie industry didn’t manage to make a full-length martial arts-based movie, which instilled in me, the urge to make them after I embarked on my directorial venture. However, these plans were dilly-dallied across the years for one or the other reason. While making this movie, I had the image of Bruce Lee appearing in my mind and thoughts. He has a lean physique, but his onscreen magic would send a gold rush into everyone’s veins. I just thought of having a female protagonist and making this martial arts-based movie. Then began my long-phased pursuit that finally ended with Pooja Bhalekar… I was spellbound over her amazing skills. I showcased the compiled video of her talents to a leading firm in China, and they were enthralled watching it. Both of us decided to produce this movie together. The movie got delayed due to the pandemic issues.

We wanted to release this movie in multiple languages at the same time. When Bruce Lee’s Enter The Dragon got released, I didn’t have money to buy tickets at a particular theater. I am in awe of the fact that my movie is getting released in the same theater now.

Actress Pooja Bhalekar said, “I am glad to be here as a part of this movie. The last time, I visited Chennai as a martial arts athlete, and today, as an actress. Working in a movie directed by Ram Gopal Varma sir is a dream come true for me. I am a diehard fan of his works. I am proud and glad to be a part of the martial arts-based movie created by him. This movie is getting released on 40,000 screens in China. When I was initially offered to play the lead, he liked my martial arts methods. Later, I underwent training following which, the shooting commenced. I had no experience in acting, and it was RGV sir, who helped me in exhibiting my emotions through his input and encouragement. I am a hardcore fan of Bruce Lee and am elated to be playing a similar role in this movie. I can assure you all that this movie will be a unique and different experience for all of you. I request everyone to watch this movie in the theaters.

Guruparan International is releasing the movie all over Tamil Nadu.

Direction: Ram Gopal Varma
Cinematography:
Ramesh
Music: Paul Praveen Kumar
Editing: Kamal
Art: Madhukar Devara
Action: Pooja & Ram Gopal Varma
PRO – Thiyagarajan
Production: Artsee Media Production & Indo/Chinese Co Production
Tamil Nadu Release – Guruparan International