In a remarkable new venture that harks back to the movie-obsessed 90s, directors Raj Nidimoru and Krishna D.K., collectively known as Raj & DK, embark on a thrilling project: Citadel: Honey Bunny. This Indian spy series features prominent actors Varun Dhawan and Samantha Ruth Prabhu in lead roles, harking back to the decade that witnessed film icons like Mel Gibson and Sanjay Dutt in their heyday. The series is crafted as a part of the broader Citadel universe, conceptualized by the renowned Russo brothers, aiming to explore narratives across multiple countries including India, Italy, and Mexico.
Celebrating the essence of Indian cinema with a universal appeal, Citadel: Honey Bunny promises a tantalizing plot centered around complex characters and layered narratives. The protagonists do not rob diners or engage in petty crimes; instead, they are portrayed as espionage agents stepping cautiously through a treacherous landscape in their quest to ensure global peace.
The narrative spins around Bollywood stuntman Bunny, embodied by Varun Dhawan, who draws aspiring actress Honey, played by Samantha Ruth Prabhu, into an espionage operation. The stakes rise years later when the estranged couple must reunite to protect their daughter Nadia. A grown-up version of Nadia features in the main series, portrayed by Priyanka Chopra Jonas, adding another intricate layer to the storyline.
The Hindu caught up with the cast and creators to delve deeper into how the series holds on to its intrinsic ‘Indianness’. The creative team, including costume designer Ameira Punvani, channel the vibrant aesthetics of the 90s, bestowing Varun’s character with leather jackets, denims, and a distinct mullet. These decisions were inspired by cinema styles synonymous with icons like Mel Gibson in Lethal Weapon and Sanjay Dutt from beloved Indian films of that era.
Samantha Ruth Prabhu shared some laughs recounting how Raj & DK, along with series developer Sita R Menon, playfully incorporated moments from her past roles into the storyline.
. Although these anecdotes were not initially scripted, they enriched Honey’s journey, presenting a character wrought with emotional depth, ranging from sadness and anger to angst.
Enthusiastically discussing the creative freedom received, Raj Nidimoru reflected on the American showbiz culture. Unlike the industry norm where directors have to adhere strictly to scripts, the Russos offered tremendous leeway, providing just basic guidelines with institutions like Citadel and Manticore as reference points. This latitude allowed the directors to create a series not entrenched in technology, focusing instead on the gritty and raw essence of the narrative.
In portraying Bunny, Dhawan emphasized the value of genuine emotions radiated throughout the plot. He expressed how dramatic sequences, especially when interacting with Samantha over complex characters like Baba, a spymaster depicted by Kay Kay Menon, are pivotal in creating a heartfelt connection with the audience.
Samantha highlighted the painstaking effort involved in filming a particularly challenging ‘oner’—a continuous single-take scene involving an intense car chase. Expecting it to be a breeze after executing other elaborate sequences, she soon realized the difficulty when synchronization with the vehicle’s movements proved taxing. Despite varying accounts of the number of takes required—Raj suggested 12, while Samantha believed it was closer to 40—the sequence encapsulates the dedication and meticulous work that went into producing this high-stakes espionage thriller.
Both lead actors and the directors assert the importance of rooting the series in Indian culture to appeal to global audiences, drawing parallels with other culturally rich series like Shogun. Raj & DK stand firmly unbowed by external influences, ensuring their work remains distinctively Indian yet universally relatable.
Reflecting on the current global landscape of Indian television, Raj Nidimoru observed that while remarkable shows exist, they often go unnoticed internationally due to lackluster marketing efforts. But with proper exposure and strategic promotion, Indian shows have the potential to captivate and dominate the global stage, echoing the aspirations embedded in Citadel: Honey Bunny.
Published on October 23, 2024, in Hindi cinema, the series promises not just an action-packed narrative but also a heartfelt homage to the glory days of 90s cinema, reviving the nostalgia and excitement of that golden era.
