Filmmaker Shankar is gearing up for the release of his much-anticipated political action drama Game Changer, starring Ram Charan and Kiara Advani in lead roles. Ahead of the film’s release on January 10, 2025, Shankar shared his thoughts on recent challenges and his vision for upcoming projects in an interview with Vikatan.
Indian 2 and the Road Ahead
Addressing the reception of Indian 2, the sequel to the 1996 cult classic Indian starring Kamal Haasan, Shankar said,
“I didn’t expect so much negative feedback for Indian 2, but that’s okay. I’m now focused on delivering better work with Game Changer and Indian 3.”
Despite the hurdles, Shankar remains optimistic about the future, confirming that Indian 3—the third installment of the iconic franchise—will follow a traditional theatrical release. This clarification comes amidst rumors suggesting that Indian 3 might skip theaters for an OTT debut.
For those unfamiliar, Indian 2 follows the return of the aged vigilante Senapathy, a freedom fighter committed to eradicating corruption in India. The film attempted to revisit the powerful themes of its predecessor but received mixed reviews, sparking conversations about its storytelling and execution.
The Promise of Game Changer
Shifting focus to Game Changer, Shankar expressed confidence in the project, stating, “I am completely satisfied with the way Game Changer has turned out. This is a lifetime character for Charan. It will be a racy movie filled with a brilliant screenplay.”
The film, based on a story by Karthik Subbaraj, revolves around the rivalry between a righteous IAS officer, portrayed by Ram Charan, and a corrupt politician, played by SJ Suryah. Shankar described the movie as a commercial entertainer with a gripping narrative.
Star-Studded Cast and Musical Highlights
Apart from Ram Charan and Kiara Advani, Game Changer features an ensemble cast, including SJ Suryah, Srikanth, Anjali, Samuthirakani, and Jayaram in pivotal roles. The makers are leaving no stone unturned to amp up the excitement for the film’s Sankranti release.
Adding to the buzz, the film’s fourth single, titled Dhop, is set to be unveiled on December 22, 2024, at 8 am. With music playing a significant role in the film’s appeal, fans are eagerly awaiting the new track.
Shankar’s Vision for the Future
As Shankar navigates the challenges of delivering back-to-back big-budget films, he remains committed to creating cinema that resonates with audiences. While Game Changer promises a blend of entertainment and social commentary, Indian 3 is expected to further explore the themes of justice and reform, staying true to the legacy of the franchise.
With Game Changer poised for release and Indian 3 in development, 2025 is shaping up to be a pivotal year for the celebrated director.