‘Bubblegum’ has a slight tinge of ‘Arjun Reddy’ but is entirely different: Director Ravikanth Perepu

After making a splash on OTT with the romantic drama Krishna and His Leela (2020), Ravikanth Perepu is back with another romantic drama Bubblegum.

Ahead of the film’s release (on 29 December), he shared his insights with the media in Hyderabad on Saturday, 23 December.

Manasa Chaudhary is playing the female lead.

Already the teaser, trailer and songs of this movie have created huge buzz with tremendous response.

The movie is being produced by Maheshwari Movies in association with People Media Factory.

Related: Anchor Suma Kanakala’s son to make his acting debut

Journey of the film

Q. How did the journey with Bubblegum begin?

‘Bubblegum’ received an ‘A’ certificate. (X)

A. After Kshanam (2016), I worked on Krishna and His Leela. Originally, it was planned for a theatrical release, but due to the COVID-19 lockdown, we had to release it on OTT platforms. Juggling actors’ schedules was a challenge, and everyone was busy with multiple projects.

At this time, I conceived the story of Bubblegum. I was already acquainted with Roshan, who was set to debut as a hero, and I felt he was a perfect fit for the story.

Our journey began, and we swiftly went on floors with Bubblegum starting in July. It is a story that resonates with everyone.

Q. Why did you cast newbies?

A. This is a story written keeping newcomers in view. It revolves around a 22-year-old boy who graduates from college and steps into the real world. Until then, his family and parents protect him. However, when he embarks on the journey to pursue his passion, everything seems new, he appears to be a speck in front of the world.

Questions about choosing the right career, financial stability, and following his passion often arise. How does he navigate unexpected love during this transformative period? The title “Bubblegum” originates from a dialogue in the movie.

Love and relationships are like bubblegum — sweet initially and then sticking around the mouth (laughs). It is primarily a love story.

Many questioned if it looked like a Rockstar (2011) even when the trailer was released. Or was it a musician’s film? But this is a relationship drama where the love story is the main focus.

About Roshan Kanakala

The lead pair in ‘Bubblegum’. (X)

Q. How was Roshan Kanakala?

A. Roshan is fantastic. What you have seen in the trailer is only 10 percent. He did a great job in the movie.

Both Roshan and Manasa acted very well. Also, the rest of the actors who acted in it showed good talent.

Q. Did Roshan’s mother Suma Kanakala see the rushes of Bubblegum and give any suggestions?

A. Their involvement was minimal. They entrusted the entire project to us and expressed strong faith in me and Roshan. The music part was awesome. I have known music composer Sricharan Pakala since my school days.

Hailing from the same town, we shared a natural vibe. He worked for Kshanam and Krishna and His Leela, and now, he contributed to Bubblegum.

The singles — “Habibi“, “Jaanu“, and “Izzat “— received an excellent response from film lovers. There are two more songs in the film.

Manasa Chaudhary, who portrayed the female lead, is a Telugu girl. She delivered a commendable performance.

Being a Telugu native, she could learn the subtext in our writing, making the process smoother. It is encouraging to see Telugu girls emerging as heroines in the film industry, which adds a sense of authenticity.

Here’s The Vibe of #HabibiJilebi – the first single from #Bubblegum.

Sung by @Rahulsipligunj, Lyrics by @LyricsShyam
Music by @SricharanPakala

Full song from Nov 3rd, Stay Tuned!!@ravikanthperepu, @RoshanKanakala, @Maanasa_chou, @sureshraghu_DOP, @maheshwarimovie,… pic.twitter.com/tJqatzVVpb

— Sony Music South (@SonyMusicSouth) October 31, 2023