‘Narakasura’ Director Sebastian Reflects on His Journey and the Film’s Unique Themes
Director Sebastian Nova Acosta Jr. has opened up about his remarkable journey in the film industry and his latest creation, ‘Narakasura,’ released in multiple languages. Starring Rakshit Atluri of ‘Palasa’ fame, the film carries a powerful message while retaining its commercial appeal.
A Dream Turned Reality:
Sebastian’s path to film making was not without its hurdles. He shared his initial struggles, including working as a waiter in a bar and restaurant at Cinemax. It was a chance encounter with legendary director Raghavendra Rao that marked a turning point in his career. Sebastian’s tenacity eventually led him to gain experience in the distribution department at Varahi film banner, providing invaluable insights into the film business.
Surviving the Unthinkable:
The making of ‘Narakasura’ wasn’t without its share of challenges, including a life-altering accident that resulted in the loss of Sebastian’s right arm. Despite this adversity, his indomitable spirit and dedication allowed the film’s completion, a testament to his unwavering commitment.
Inspiration Behind ‘Narakasura’:
Sebastian’s inspiration for ‘Narakasura’ came from an impactful video where KTR, at an event, stressed the importance of sensitively portraying transgender issues in cinema. This message, coupled with a childhood memory, led to the inclusion of the transgender theme in the film, underlining the narrative’s depth.
The Significance of the Title:
The title ‘Narakasura’ was not a random choice. It was meticulously selected to resonate with the story-line. The film’s protagonist undergoes a transformation from a great personality into a formidable demon, aligning with the essence of the title.
Rakshit Atluri’s Dedication:
Rakshit Atluri, the lead actor of ‘Narakasura,’ exhibited exceptional commitment, dedicating three years exclusively to the project. The film also featured distinguished artists such as Nasser, Charan Raj, and Sreeman, who wholeheartedly supported the project despite the challenges of shooting in various locations during the lock down.
Gratitude to the Hijra Community:
Sebastian expressed his gratitude to the hijra community, highlighting their kindness and support during his personal hardships. He emphasized that the film is not solely about hijras but features an essential story-line concerning them.
Balancing Message and Entertainment:
‘Narakasura’ manages to strike a balance between delivering a powerful message and retaining commercial elements. The trailer offers a glimpse of this unique blend, promising an engaging cinematic experience.
Next Tribe and the Future:
Sebastian revealed his upcoming project, ‘Next Tribe,’ set in the Stone Age with a tribal lifestyle theme. The film boasts a star-studded cast including Madhavan, Arun Vijay, Vivek Oberoi, and Tovino Thomas, and is scheduled for release in multiple languages.
‘Narakasura’ is poised to make a significant impact with its thought-provoking narrative and commendable dedication from its cast and crew. Sebastian’s journey is a testament to the power of perseverance and creativity in the world of cinema.
