Dr. Anil Vishwanath, riding high on the success of "Polimera," is finally unleashing his long-awaited directorial debut, "28°C," on April 4th. This emotional love story, starring Naveen Chandra and Shalini Vadnikatti, is not just a film for Vishwanath; it's a seven-year odyssey.
"28°C" isn't just a love story; it's a survival story—both for the characters on screen and the filmmaker behind it. Vishwanath reveals a turbulent journey, starting in 2017, facing budget expansions, and the crushing blow of the 2020 lockdown just before its intended release. "We were offered peanuts by OTT platforms," he confesses, "but this film deserved the big screen."
The film itself weaves a captivating narrative around two medical students, injecting thrilling and supernatural elements into their love story. The unique concept of "28°C"—how brain-damaged individuals react to temperature extremes—serves as a central plot device, leaving audiences guessing until the very end.
Vishwanath's casting journey was equally dramatic. Initially eyeing Adivi Sesh, he found his lead in Naveen Chandra, who immediately connected with the script. The challenging 25-day shoot in Georgia, filled with bureaucratic hurdles and lost equipment, could be a movie in itself, he jokes.
The delayed release took a toll. "It was a dark period," Vishwanath admits. "I almost gave up." But it was during this time that he penned "Polimera," a film that reignited his passion and became a blockbuster. "That success gave me the strength to push '28°C' forward," he says.
Now, with the support of friend Vamsi Nandipati, Vishwanath's focus is on showcasing his debut on the big screen, not just profits. "Naveen Chandra's family was moved after watching it," he shares, confident in the film's emotional impact.
He credits his knack for unique backdrops as a strength, promising a tight, two-hour runtime for "28°C." And while "28°C" hits theaters, he's already deep into "Polimera 3," a pan-India period piece with extensive CG and a surprise star cameo, slated for Sankranti.
Vishwanath's ambition extends beyond his own projects. He's also supporting his team member Nani Kasaragadda with "12A Railway Colony," starring Allari Naresh, for which he penned the screenplay. He is also planning an investigative crime thriller with Bellamkonda Sai Sreenivas. "I want to give back," he explains, "supporting those who need a hand up."
"28°C" isn't just a film release; it's a testament to perseverance, a story of overcoming obstacles, and a promise of a unique cinematic experience.
