Gung ho, Gollywood!

From the black and white screens to sepia tinted ones and then to color, Gollywood’s journey is taking an interesting turn this year. The year began with a good note with the movie Pran Jaye Pan Preet Na Jaye doing well at the BO.
This summer, the screen is going to sizzle as there are many Gujarati new releases promising to deliver high octane entertainment.Actor Jeet Upendra, whose film Man Mor Bani Thangat Kare going to release soon, says, “This year began with a good note. I have had one hit Pran Jaye and Man Mor... will be ready for release. And I have got seven back to back movie releases lined up this year.”
Gujarati filmmakers take pride in the kind of response their films received from the audience and continued with their creative endeavors all through the years. Actor Hitu Kanodia too has many releases in his kitty. “My film Rajveer is going to hit the screens soon. And I am experimenting by taking up various roles this time.”
Actor Hiten Kumar, who was shooting for his next film titled 4 in Surat is also elated about the number of releases lined up this year. “There are lot of encouraging things happening this year. Budgets have increased and fresh and young talent is making itself heard.”
Filmmaker Deepak Antani is also hoping to rake in decent moolah at the BO with his upcoming movie Preetam Apni Peheli Preet. “My movie which is based on Dilip Ranpura’s novel Pithe Pangaryo Piplo, is an offbeat story. And I have good expectation because it will connect with today’s generation.”
At the same time, veteran filmmakers too are thinking of making a comeback with their films. Director Mehul Kumar says, “I am just waiting for the right time. I have got my script ready which has been written particularly to suit the palates of the youth in Gujarat.”
Producer Hirachand Dand too is working on permutations for his upcoming movie. Filmmaker Vikram Dodia feels, the industry is witnessing winds of change. “Slowly the concept of big budget movies has found takers in Gujarati filmmakers. And the industry is making moves to sustain itself. Gollywood is launching many young talented actors and actresses.”
Actress Pranjal Bhatt feels, so far the response has been good from the audience. “Once G-Town manages pep itself with good content and storylines, I am sure there will be more recall so far as Gujarati movies are concerned.”
It seems, more drama is going to get unfurled in the days to come.
navya.maliniyv@timesgroup.com