Director Prashanth Neel, renowned for blockbusters like 'KGF' and 'Salaar', is collaborating with superstar Jr NTR for the first time in the highly anticipated pan-India film 'Dragon'. On the occasion of Jr NTR's birthday, the makers unveiled the first teaser, introducing the actor as a formidable assassin named Luger. In a recent interview, Neel candidly shared his experience working with the 'RRR' star.
Initial Nervousness and Intimidation
Speaking with Galatta Plus, Prashanth Neel revealed that he has been an admirer of Jr NTR for the past 25 years. He expressed immense excitement when the production house proposed a meeting with the actor for the film. However, this excitement was accompanied by a sense of fear and nervousness. 'I was extremely excited. At the same time, I was also afraid. The persona I had seen on screen and the kind of energy he carries. I thought it might be toxic for me,' Neel admitted.
The director confessed that the powerful on-screen image of Jr NTR left him intimidated initially. He believed that the actor might be someone who is inflexible and difficult to persuade. 'Looking at him from the outside, it felt like you couldn't change his mind. Usually, I need to fall in love with my heroes because we are literally married to each other for a couple of years while making a film. So it was intimidating to meet him,' Neel explained.
Transformation of Perception
After spending considerable time together, Prashanth Neel's perspective on Jr NTR underwent a complete transformation. He discovered that the actor is practical and honest in his approach to work. 'He is family to me now. One thing I understood about him is that he is stubborn — but in a very honest way. He is not somebody who hides his stubbornness,' the director shared. Neel emphasized that working with Jr NTR became increasingly comfortable as they developed a mutual understanding during the film's production.
Natural Talent and Performance
Prashanth Neel praised Jr NTR's performance as Luger, noting that he never felt the need to control the actor's style. He revealed that Jr NTR instinctively grasped the essence of the character without requiring extensive direction. 'There was no way I was going to tell him, 'You should act like this or walk like this.' He would do it naturally,' Neel stated.
The director added that the moment Jr NTR stepped onto the set and performed as Luger, he realized that the actor had fully immersed himself in the character. Neel expressed immense satisfaction with what Jr NTR brought to the film, applauding his ability to understand the drama and emotion of the story perfectly. 'He is family to me now,' Neel reiterated, highlighting the strong bond they have developed.
Conclusion
The collaboration between Prashanth Neel and Jr NTR in 'Dragon' promises to be a cinematic spectacle, blending Neel's signature style with NTR's powerful screen presence. As the film progresses, audiences eagerly await the release to witness the chemistry between these two creative powerhouses.
