'I am as aspirational as Garfield'

FIVE FILMS IN 12 YEARS, AND SHE HAS EXPERIENCED JOY OF BIG HITS TO CRITICAL ACCLAIM, FROM AWARDS TO CRITICISM. FOR NANDINI REDDY IT IS THE JOURNEY OF MAKING A FILM THAT CONTINUES TO INSPIRE HER AND GIVE HER JOY. "20 FRIDAYS CANNOT DECIDE MY LIFE," SHE MAINTAINS

- RAJESHWARI KALYANAM

The year was 2011, there was a small film, a rom-com that had fairly new and young actors, and storytelling which does not follow the norms of the time and humour which is not a separate 'track' but is part of the story and situations. It still followed the format but cut corners to stand out as a fresh film that appealed to critics and masses. There is complexity of emotions, the songs and dances, and most of all relatable characters. Nandini Reddy, who had worked with some of the most critically acclaimed directors until then, chose to debut with 'Ala Modalaindi' as an independent director. And till date the film defines her. It is considered one of the best Telugu films of all times. Nandini on her part continues to make rom coms and feel-good movies, but ensures each of her films stand out on their own. From 'Ala Modalaindi' which translated means That's How It Started to the latest 'Anni Manchi Sakunamule' Nandini Reddy chose to follow her heart. If it means lesser number of films in her kitty - she evidently does not mind.

Here's a peek into what makes her tick.

Where do your stories come from?

Maybe I am living vicariously through my films. Especially, Anni Manchi Sakunamule is from a part of me. My most personal film. A friend saw the film and commented there is so much of you as a person. She was referring to my humour and my values of life. My hero in the film eats tons of food, is foot loose fancy-free kind and loves on a whim.

What is the reason you have always stuck to feel good films?