iSmart News LIVE || 30-06-2020

Even if a movie spends a long time on sets, negative news circulating during the shoot—or even after the shoot with re-shoots—can affect audience interest. No matter how strong the combination of cast and crew, all the initial buzz can fade due to such reports. That’s why makers are often cautious about leaks. Currently, one such high-profile movie is creating similar tension among fans.

The film in question is Akkineni Chinababu’s Lenin. Produced jointly by Sitaara Entertainments and Annapurna Studios, the movie’s shoot is reportedly 80% complete. The timeline of when Lenin began shooting isn’t entirely clear, but the teaser release was a surprise hit. While fans were impressed with Akhil’s teaser, various news reports have started circulating about the movie.

During the shoot, the original heroine, Srileela, reportedly exited the project, and Bhagyashree Borse stepped in. The exact reason for the change remains unclear. Rumors suggest that Srileela’s commitments in Bollywood may have led to her stepping away, but that hasn’t been officially confirmed. Scenes already shot with Srileela are now being re-shot with Bhagyashree.

Re-shoots after 80% of the movie is complete inevitably increase the budget. These leaks and reports also risk diminishing the movie’s initial impact. Lenin was originally slated for a December release, but due to these re-shoots, it may now be pushed to February or March next year. Fans are particularly anxious since Akhil hasn’t yet had a commercial blockbuster. While the Lenin teaser raised hopes of Akhil hitting the success track, the ongoing re-shoots are creating some confusion.

It seems Nagarjuna may need to seriously evaluate the planning process for Akhil’s projects. Reports suggest that discussions for his next movie are already underway, and the team intends to start the next project promptly once Lenin wraps up.