A birthday celebration, a group of friends, and a freak incident that changes everything – these are the intriguing elements behind the new Telugu film, The Birthday Boy, set to release in theatres on July 19. Inspired by a true story, the film has already garnered attention for its unique narrative and bold approach. Produced by Bharat Kumar and directed by a debutant who goes by the pseudonym Whisky, The Birthday Boy features a cast that includes Ravi Krishna, Sameer Malla, and Rajeev Kanakala.
This film marks the debut venture for both producer Bharat Kumar and director Whisky. The duo, who previously worked in the United States, pooled their financial resources to bring this real-life inspired story to the silver screen. During a recent media interaction, director Whisky revealed that the events which inspired the film actually took place in 2016. However, it wasn’t until 2020 that he and Bharat decided to embark on the journey of filmmaking based on these incidents.
The Birthday Boy tells the story of five Indian friends who move to the United States to pursue their higher education. Their lives take an unforeseen turn when a freak incident occurs during a birthday celebration, challenging their friendship and individual aspirations. While the film presents itself as a slice-of-life buddy comedy, it delicately handles a serious underlying issue, which the makers prefer to keep under wraps to preserve the surprise element for the audience.
In an effort to deliver a close-to-reality experience, the production team chose to use sync sound – a technique that records sound in real-time during filming rather than in post-production. This choice adds authenticity to the film, allowing the audience to feel as though they are part of the unfolding events. The narrative spans just 48 hours, yet it aims to deeply explore the lives and emotions of its characters within this brief time frame.
One of the most intriguing aspects of The Birthday Boy is the director’s choice of pseudonym – Whisky. When asked about this unconventional name, the director shared a touching anecdote: he chose the name in memory of his beloved pet dog, Whisky.
. This sentimental choice adds a layer of personal significance to his creative endeavor. Moreover, the director’s public appearances have been marked by him wearing a mask. He explained that his family was not particularly supportive of his decision to enter the film industry, which led him to adopt a partially masked appearance to protect their privacy and lessen their concerns.
Ravi Krishna, Sameer Malla, and Rajeev Kanakala, the main actors in the film, have expressed their excitement and commitment to the project. Ravi Krishna, known for his previous work in Telugu cinema, remarked that The Birthday Boy offered him a chance to explore a character vastly different from his previous roles. Sameer Malla, on the other hand, appreciated the camaraderie among the cast, which translated well on screen. Rajeev Kanakala highlighted the film’s thoughtful approach to serious issues under the guise of a light-hearted comedy, noting that it provides a unique viewing experience.
The film’s producers, Bharat Kumar and Whisky, have emphasized that making The Birthday Boy was a labor of love. They hoped to capture the essence of human relationships, the challenges faced when living abroad, and the impact of unforeseen events on one’s life. Bharat Kumar, specifically, mentioned that the film’s inspiration drew from real-life challenges faced by people close to him, adding a layer of authenticity and emotional depth to the story.
As the release date approaches, anticipation for The Birthday Boy continues to build. With its mix of humor, real-life inspiration, and emotional depth, the film promises to be a memorable addition to Telugu cinema. Both Bharat Kumar and Whisky hope that audiences will not only enjoy the narrative but also take away meaningful insights about life, friendship, and the unpredictable nature of fate. The Birthday Boy is slated to open in theatres nationwide on July 19, inviting viewers to immerse themselves in a story that is as compelling as it is poignant.
