Sundeep Kishan and Lavanya Tripathi starrer first hockey Telugu film A1 Express is all set for release on March 5th. The film is directed by Dennis Jeevan Kanukolanu, while Sundeep Kishan has also produced it in association with TG Vishwa Prasad, Abhishek Agarwal and Daya Pannen. Lavanya Tripathi while speaking to scribes made some interesting revelations about the film.
A1 Express is a remake. Was script altered for Telugu version?
Yes it’s a remake. However, many changes were made. The script has been altered for 45 to 50%. It’s a tried and tested formula and we felt it’s a safe thing to do. The role I played has many resemblances to my personal character. She’s fierce and straightforward.
How tough it was playing a hockey player?
I like sports. It’s not a new thing for me. I didn’t have to go to gym and start from zero. Still, it was tough for me to learn the sport. I practiced a lot even on sets. After wrapping up a film in Chennai, I had to fly to Hyderabad on same day. I went straight to stadium to attend practice session, despite having high fever, since there was shooting the very next day. I, however, enjoyed the whole process. I watched real matches of women to learn body language of sports women.
What the film is all about?
The film tells that there’s politics in sports as well. How sometimes very talented people don’t get selected. There is a good message in the film.
How was it working with Sundeep Kishan?
Sundeep Kishan is a good friend of mine. We have been good friends since long time. We previously worked together for Maayavan. He’s a great co-star to work with. He is also a producer of the film. He listens if I give any suggestions. He also used to give me suggestions on certain scenes.
What did you do in lockdown time?
I didn’t find much difference. I’m normally like the person who spends more time with family. I used to do cooking. I watched many films on OTTs.
Did you get any OTT offers?
I got OTT offers. But, I want to do only when I feel the script is amazing.
Tags A1 Express Lavanya Tripathi