Another mega film, made at the Pan-India level, 45, is all about life and marks the directorial debut of Arjun Janya, the magical composer behind over 150 films. The movie has completed 106 days of shooting, and the team addressed the media on Saturday, with Ramesh Reddy of Sooraj Productions hosting a grand event at the Lalit Ashok Hotel to celebrate the completion of the shoot.
The multi-talented, multilingual, and multi-starrer film 45 features Karunada Chakravarthy Dr. Shivarajkumar, Real Star Upendra, and Raj B. Shetty. This much-awaited film, produced by Smt. Uma Ramesh Reddy under the Sooraj Productions banner, has piqued immense interest since its inception. Lavishly produced on a grand scale, the Pan-India film has now completed shooting, marked by a traditional pumpkin-breaking ceremony at Anupama Theatre in Bengaluru.
Before the press conference, Dr. Shivarajkumar, Upendra, and Raj B. Shetty were felicitated by producer Ramesh Reddy. In a gesture of appreciation, director Arjun Janya surprised Ramesh Reddy by honoring him for his unwavering support throughout the making of the film.
Dr. Shivarajkumar expressed his joy in being part of 45, stating, “The three of us have significant roles, and I’m particularly happy to have worked with Upendra. It was also a pleasure to act alongside Raj B. Shetty. Though this is Arjun Janya’s directorial debut, his direction is remarkable, and Ramesh Reddy has produced the film in a grand style. Ravi Varma’s action sequences are superb, and 45 is bound to be an action film appreciated by audiences across India.”
For the film 45, titled Face the Fear in Kannada, Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, and Hindi, Dr. Shivarajkumar suggested a minor tweak, adding the word “Facts,” making the tagline Face the Facts of Fear.
“I’ve heard of Hollywood films narrating stories through animation, and Arjun Janya has successfully brought this technique to Kannada cinema. He has skillfully incorporated animation into the storytelling. Producer Ramesh Reddy gave Arjun Janya the freedom to execute his vision,” said Upendra, who added that he was thrilled to have worked with Shivarajkumar and Raj B. Shetty, and is eagerly waiting to see the film on screen.
Raj B. Shetty, sharing his excitement, said, “I grew up whistling at Shivanna’s films and admiring Upendra’s A movie posters with awe. I’m a fan of both, and to act alongside them is a dream come true. As a Kannadiga, I feel 45 is a film that will make Kannadigas proud, and I’m proud to be a part of it.”
Director Arjun Janya described 45 as a temple where Upendra represents Brahma, Raj B. Shetty is Vishnu, and Shivarajkumar is Maheshwara. He credited Ramesh Reddy for building this temple, while cinematographer Satya Hegde served as the key architect. Janya thanked everyone involved in completing the 106-day shoot successfully. He also shared that his late brother, who passed away during the COVID-19 pandemic, was his inspiration, giving him the courage and strength to make the film.
Producer Ramesh Reddy shared his thoughts, saying, “When I saw the animated version of this movie, I was impressed. While many questioned how Arjun Janya would fare as a director, I had faith in him. As shooting progressed, he shared every scene with me, and I was overjoyed. I’m fortunate to have Shivarajkumar, Upendra, and Raj B. Shetty in my film. I believe this film will make a mark not just in Karnataka but across India.”
Ace cinematographer Satya Hegde expressed his happiness, noting that Arjun Janya’s style would set new trends in the Kannada film industry.
Following the media meet, producer Ramesh Reddy hosted a lavish meal for the press.