SJ Suryah, who has transitioned from directing to acting, is showcasing his versatility in a series of successful films. He is currently preparing for the release of his upcoming project, Game Changer. Directed by the renowned Shankar, this political action drama stars Global Star Ram Charan in the lead role and is set to premiere worldwide on January 10.

In the film, Suryah portrays a corrupt politician. Before the release, he engaged with the media, sharing insights from their discussion:

Q. This marks your second collaboration with Shankar Garu following Bharateeyudu 2. As a director turned actor, did you ever envision working with him or discussing such a possibility?  

Suryah: Every actor aspires to collaborate with a prominent director, and Shankar sir is undoubtedly a giant in the industry. It is a common dream to work alongside him. However, such opportunities typically arise when one reaches a certain level of success. My previous projects performed well, which led to this opportunity.

Q. What was your reaction upon receiving a call from Shankar sir for both Bharateeyudu 2 and Game Changer?  

Suryah: Initially, I was offered Game Changer. After appreciating my performance in that film, Shankar sir subsequently provided me with a role in Bharateeyudu 2. He would act out scenes while explaining them to me, and I would then perform accordingly. This approach allowed him to recognize my acting abilities, leading to my involvement in India (Bharateeyudu).

Q. Regarding Game Changer, could you elaborate on your character and your feelings when Shankar narrated it to you?  

Suryah: The narrative revolves around a conflict between an honest collector, who prioritizes the welfare of the nation, and a self-serving politician. Upon hearing the story, I found the premise somewhat conventional; however, the scene design was exceptional. I was particularly impressed by how Shankar sir crafted my character and its attributes.

Q. Recently, you have portrayed characters infused with energy and entertainment, such as in Saripodhaa Sanivaaram. Is it true that your role in Game Changer will be even more dynamic?  

Suryah: Indeed, as I mentioned, Shankar sir has meticulously developed my character, including its mannerisms and dialogues, to a remarkable extent.

Q. Are you portraying two characters in the film?  

Suryah: No, I am portraying a single character.  

Q. As a prominent director known for creating a hit like Kushi with Pawan Kalyan, have you ever considered working under another director, despite your own success?  

Suryah: Not in the least. I enjoy collaborating with esteemed directors. Although I am recognized as a significant director, I had to begin anew as an actor. I undertook that journey and have now reached this point.  

Q. How would you evaluate your acting skills from a director's perspective?  

Suryah: I would rate myself a perfect 100. However, your assessment is what truly matters, not mine.  

Q. Has there been a transformation in Pawan Kalyan from the time of Kushi to now?  

Suryah: His principles have remained unchanged. He has always aimed to contribute positively to society. He was an avid reader of works by Gandhi, Mandela, and Che Guevara. At that time, I did not fully grasp his insights, but I have come to understand them now.  

Q. Having collaborated with Pawan Kalyan for two films and with Charan in Game Changer, did you observe any similarities between them, and how was your overall experience?  

Suryah: Charan is an exceptionally dedicated actor. He has achieved global recognition, even reaching the level of the Oscars. He is remarkably humble and embodies the qualities of a director's ideal actor. His portrayal of an IAS officer was composed and impactful. The character of Appanna will stand out in the film. He truly embraced that role and delivered it with the highest level of commitment. The entire team has developed a fondness for that character, which reflects the influence Ram Charan brought to the role crafted by Shankar.

Q. Did you agree to participate in Game Changer due to Shankar or because you were fond of the character?  

Suryah: To begin with, I do not accept a film unless I am genuinely fond of my character. However, in the case of Shankar Garu, I chose to take on the project regardless of the storyline or my role. There are a select few directors who have elevated Indian cinema, and Shankar Garu is certainly among them. While he may have faced some setbacks, collaborating with him is a dream for any actor. As Rajamouli Garu has noted, Shankar Garu has inspired other directors to think on a grand scale. Why would I decline an opportunity to work with such a visionary director? Although my initial decision was based on Shankar sir, every moment spent on this film has been a joy. I returned home content after each day of shooting. I am so pleased with this film and my role that I chose to dub my own voice in Telugu, Tamil, and Hindi.  

Q. Did you ever feel the urge to advise or suggest anything to Shankar during the filming?  

Suryah: No. When I am in the role of an actor, I remain focused solely on that. I do not assume any other responsibilities. An actor must be cognizant of the technical aspects surrounding him, and I utilize that understanding. Just as there is a director within me, there is also an actor in Shankar Garu. He embodies every scene in his films and meticulously crafts each character and its nuances.  

Q. Is there a resemblance between Ram Charan's character in Game Changer and Pawan Kalyan's real-life persona?  

Suryah: Indeed, there is. Both individuals are driven by a desire to serve their country and are willing to go to great lengths to achieve that.  

Q. Following Ram Charan's character, whose role will stand out in Game Changer?  

Suryah: Mine (laughs).  

Q. At the pre-release event, you mentioned that your confrontational scenes with Ram Charan Garu would be among the film's highlights. How was your experience working with him?  

Suryah: It was remarkable. One day, after we finished shooting in Mysore, he invited me to his room and offered me a meal. He expressed his delight in my performance that day. He truly is a wonderful person.  

Q. You provided your voice for dubbing in Telugu, Tamil, and Hindi. Many fans appreciate your dialogue and diction. Were there any instances in Game Changer where you experienced stress while delivering a dialogue?  

Suryah: Not at all. I perform both on set and in the dubbing studio.

Q: Are there any memorable dialogues similar to those in Saripodhaa Sanivaaram?  

Suryah: Indeed, there are. However, I cannot disclose them at this moment. You will need to see the film in theatres.

Q. Does your character in the film resemble any real-life politician?  

Suryah: (laughs heartily) You will find out once the movie is released.

Q. This project is a dream for Dil Raju Garu. Can you elaborate?  

Suryah: Simply spending money does not equate to production. One must possess passion and affection for the project. Dil Raju Garu's dedication is evident in the 'Jaragandi' song, where they crafted a world resembling a coffee cup. It takes courage to invest such resources in creating a visually stunning song. There are numerous costs involved. Throughout the film, Dil Raju Garu not only provided the necessary budget but was also present daily, overseeing every department. He has a strong understanding of storytelling, production, and distribution. He is truly versatile. His immense trust and affection for Shankar sir allowed him to fulfil all of Shankar sir's requests, resulting in this grand film.

Q. What was the most difficult scene for you in your interactions with Ram Charan Garu?  

Suryah: Aside from the Hindi dubbing, nothing posed a challenge (laughs). I prepare thoroughly for every scene, so I do not encounter difficulties on set.

Q. As a director, how would you assess Charan's performance?  

Suryah: I would rate him a solid 90. He adeptly balances both energetic and composed performances, embodying both fire and water.

Q. Which character from your films do you favour the most?  

Suryah: I particularly enjoyed the character of Mopidevi in Game Changer. I believe it is the finest.

Q. Are there any upcoming projects in Telugu?  

Suryah: Yes, there are. I will make announcements at the appropriate time.

1. Q. Is there a possibility of collaborating with Akira Nandan?  

Suryah: I was quite surprised to encounter him at the airport recently. He appears to be in excellent condition. Much like his father, he is also engrossed in numerous books. I sincerely hope he attains the highest levels of success. We shall see if any opportunities arise in the future.  

Q. Have you engaged in conversations with Pawan Kalyan Garu regarding Kushi 2?  

Suryah: We have had discussions in the past. However, he is currently focused on a different path, dedicated to serving the community. Therefore, it is best to let matters remain as they are.  

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