Natural Star Nani on HIT: The 3rd Case — A Raw, Gripping, Massy Thriller Promising a Great Theatrical Experience
Natural Star Nani is back with the highly anticipated crime-action thriller, HIT: The 3rd Case, directed by Dr. Sailesh Kolanu. The film stars Srinidhi Shetty as the female lead and is produced by Prashanthi Tipirneni under the Wall Poster Cinema and Nani’s Unanimous Productions banners. Following the buzz created by its teaser, trailer, and songs, the film is set for a Pan-India release on May 1st.
Ahead of the release, Nani spoke to the media, sharing insights about the film and his experience.
“We traveled across the country for HIT 3, and the response has been phenomenal.”
“We toured all over India for both the shoot and promotions. The audience response has been overwhelmingly positive. It feels amazing to witness such strong vibes even before release.”
“HIT 3 is violent, but in an enjoyable, stylized way.”
“The first two films in the HIT franchise were investigation thrillers. HIT 3 introduces action and violence based on story demands. It’s not your regular film—it’s stylish and relatable. The violence isn’t forced; it’s organically woven into the plot. You’ll understand its necessity once you watch it. The film offers several visually worthy moments that elevate the cinematic experience.”
On the family audience and how the film might affect them:
“Advance bookings are terrific. Yes, this is a different genre from my usual fare, but if the target audience connects, it will definitely become a blockbuster. And I’m confident this film will connect with them.”
“I don’t see this as a transformation.”
“I started off with a boy-next-door image and then moved on to roles in films like Hi Nanna, Jersey, Dasara, and now HIT 3. I enjoy exploring new genres. The violence in HIT 3 is like what you enjoyed in Salaar—intense but entertaining. However, here, the emotional intensity of the case adds a different layer.”
On DOP S. Manikandan (also known as Shaun Varghese):
“He’s a brilliant cinematographer. Every frame he captures has a purpose and emotion behind it. His visuals enhance the emotional impact of the story. He’s given HIT 3 powerful visual storytelling.”
On choosing Mickey J. Meyer as the music composer:
“Mickey is a great craftsman known for his feel-good films. He’s never done a thriller before, which is exactly why I chose him. I believed his fresh take would elevate the soundscape. His background score gives the audience a unique experience.”
On shooting in Pahalgam:
“We shot in various locations in Pahalgam for 18 days. Unfortunately, while filming, we lost a crew member from the DOP department due to health issues, which deeply affected us.”
About Srinidhi Shetty:
“Every character in this film has a purpose. Srinidhi performed wonderfully. I can’t reveal too much about her role right now, but she’s been very supportive and actively participated in promotions. She has a strong fan base, and she’s a big asset to this film.”
On doing raw and intense characters:
“If the role excites me, I don’t find it hard. I truly enjoy my work, so nothing feels difficult.”
Why did you choose to do HIT 3?
“The subject demanded it. Once you watch the movie, you’ll understand why I had to be a part of it.”
On Rajamouli attending HIT events:
“Rajamouli garu feels like a family member. Despite his busy schedule, he attended the event, which means a lot to us. He’s been the chief guest for all three HIT films. Now we’re worried if he doesn’t attend the next one!” (laughs)
Box Office expectations?
“I don’t focus on numbers. But given how everyone says audiences don’t come to theatres anymore, seeing the HIT 3 advance bookings blow up makes me very happy. If we offer exciting content, audiences will definitely come.”
What’s the emotional core of HIT 3?
“There’s a beautiful emotional high tied to a promise, and it holds throughout the film. That emotion will truly connect with the audience when seen on the big screen.”
Several films are releasing alongside HIT 3—how do you see the competition?
“The better all movies perform, the better it is for everyone. If the whole industry thrives, it’s a win for all of us.”
On audience trust in your brand of cinema:
“I think that trust comes from the honesty I put into my work. I never separate myself from the audience. I consider myself one of them and make films with that belief.”
How is HIT 3 different from the first two films?
“HIT 3 is on a completely different scale. We showed that in the teaser and trailer already. This film offers a true theatrical experience, which I believe is why advance bookings are so strong.”
On Director Sailesh Kolanu:
“Sailesh may be making these intense thrillers, but he’s actually very funny in real life. He’s got a great sense of humor. I keep telling him he should write a comedy next—it would be brilliant.”
Is there more violence in Paradise than in HIT 3?
“They are completely different films. Paradise is on an epic scale, whereas HIT 3 is an intense investigative thriller.”
As a Chiranjeevi fan, how does it feel to be producing a film with him?
“I still haven’t digested it! (laughs) It’s a proud moment.”
