‘Junior’ is an Emotional Family Drama Everyone Can Connect With — Cinematographer K.K. Senthil Kumar

Renowned cinematographer K.K. Senthil Kumar, known for his spectacular visuals in magnum opuses like Baahubali and RRR, is now working on a very different kind of project — an emotional family entertainer titled Junior. The film marks the debut of Kireeti Reddy, son of politician and businessman Gali Janardhan Reddy, and is directed by Radhakrishna. Actress Sreeleela plays the female lead, while Rajani Korrapati is producing the film under the Vaaraahi Chalana Chitram banner.

The film’s songs have become chartbusters, and both the teaser and trailer have received a phenomenal response. Ahead of the film’s July 18 release, Senthil Kumar spoke to the media and shared his thoughts on the project and his experience working on it.


How did this project come to you?

I’ve had a good relationship with producer Sai ever since we worked on Eega. After RRR, he approached me about this project. Director Radhakrishna narrated the story, and I found it very appealing. The production house and technical team were strong, so I decided to come on board.


What element in the story attracted you the most?

Usually, debut films don’t go into the emotional or family drama space. They focus on fights and dance numbers. But Junior has a strong emotional core, which deeply impressed me. Launching a new hero with this kind of story felt refreshing and bold.


Your thoughts on debutant Kireeti?

Kireeti is incredibly hardworking and a fantastic dancer. He performs action scenes with great ease, and his acting is also quite impressive. He’s a balanced performer and, in my opinion, one of the best newcomers I’ve seen.


You’ve worked on grand visual spectacles with Rajamouli. Why choose a small-scale film like Junior?

Every film is unique in its own way. After handling VFX-heavy and massive projects, working on something intimate and emotional like Junior was creatively refreshing. Family dramas are becoming rare these days, so I was glad to get the opportunity to work on one again.


The songs have gone viral. What’s your take on the promotional content?

The music has been loved by the audience, especially the viral song featuring Kireeti and Sreeleela’s dance moves — it was a big hit. The teaser and trailer also received a tremendous response. I truly believe audiences will enjoy the film in theatres.


What elements do you look for in a story before signing a film?

For me, it all comes down to emotion. If the story doesn’t move me emotionally, no amount of action or commercial elements can make it work. Emotion is everything.


You’ve had a long collaboration with Rajamouli. What caused the break this time?

This isn’t unusual. Even in the past, we had gaps — I didn’t work on Vikramarkudu or Maryada Ramanna. So, no surprises here (laughs). We’ll definitely collaborate again in the future.


How was the experience working with Ravichandran?

Ravichandran sir is an incredible actor. The kind of energy he has at his age is just unbelievable. It was a pleasure working with him — a truly great experience.


What can audiences expect from Genelia’s role?

Audiences will see a completely different side of Genelia in this film. Her character and performance are very unique and will definitely surprise everyone.


Thoughts on director Radhakrishna?

Radhakrishna is a director with a very clear vision. He knows exactly what he wants and how to execute it. I really liked his storytelling and his focused approach. That clarity is rare and very important.


Tell us about producer Sai and the production quality.

Producer Sai hasn’t compromised at any stage. He’s given Kireeti a dream launch, ensuring top-notch production quality. From roping in a strong technical team to choosing the right music director like Devi Sri Prasad and action choreographer Peter Hein, everything was done with passion. It’s been a joy working with Vaaraahi Productions.


Do you have plans to direct a film?

Yes, I do have the desire to direct, but not just yet. I’m still working on a few ideas and stories. It’ll take time, but the intention is there.


How do you feel looking back at your journey so far?

It’s been 25 years since I entered the industry, and I feel proud to have earned a name for delivering quality work. Getting the chance to work on epic films like Baahubali and RRR has been a blessing. I’m grateful for the journey.


Upcoming projects?

I’m currently working on Swayambhu, a film in the Baahubali-style epic genre, set in the era of kings. I’m also working on a project titled Indian House.


Junior is all set for a theatrical release on July 18, 2024, and promises to be a wholesome emotional entertainer with strong performances and family values at its core.

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