“It’s my fortune to come up with a story like ‘Zebra.’ It’s a film that will connect with everyone and offers a unique experience to the audience,” says hero Satyadev.
Talented hero Satyadev and Kannada star Dolly Dhananjaya team up for the highly anticipated multi-starrer Zebra. Directed by Eashvar Karthik, the film is produced by SN Reddy, S Padmaja, Bal Sundaram, and Dinesh Sundaram under the banners of Padmaja Films Pvt. Ltd. and Old Town Pictures. Priya Bhavani Shankar and Jennifer Piccinato play the lead female roles. The teaser and trailer, already released, have generated massive excitement. Zebra is set to hit theaters on November 22. On this occasion, hero Satyadev shared details about the film at a press meet.
What’s the significance of the title Zebra?
Zebra is a metaphor for black and white. The story revolves around black money and white money. Moreover, the audience won’t know who is good or bad until the end. Everyone has shades of grey. That’s why the title font includes grey, and the film is aptly titled Zebra. When the script was sent to me, it already had this title. The film is also being released in four languages, making Zebra a perfect choice in every way.
How does this differ from recent films like Lucky Bhaskar in a bank crime backdrop?
Lucky Bhaskar is a period story, while Zebra is a contemporary tale. Except for my role as a banker, there’s no connection between the two films. The current banking system is entirely digital, making crimes more challenging. The mistakes happening within banks often remain unknown to the general public unless they work there. Director Eashvar Karthik, having previously worked in a bank, wrote this story based on incidents he witnessed and some true events.
When withdrawing cash from an ATM, you hear a sound as the money comes out. This film explores what happens behind that sound. It’s a concept that will connect with common audiences. I play a banker, while Dhananjaya is a gangster. How our two worlds collide forms the crux of the story.
What was it like working with Dolly Dhananjaya?
We grew very close during this journey. His role as Jolly Reddy in Pushpa brought him fame, and his portrayal of a gangster here has incredible swag. He has delivered a completely different performance. With this film, he will connect even more with Telugu audiences. The film is also being released in Kannada, where he has a solid fan base, so it’s expected to perform well there too.The characters played by Sunil, Sathyaraj, Satya, and Priya Bhavani Shankar are from two different worlds. How they all come together is fascinating.
How did you feel when Eashvar Karthik narrated the story?
When I first heard the story, it blew my mind. I decided right away to do the film, as stories like this are rare. Once the film releases, Eashvar’s writing and direction will earn him significant recognition.
Were there any challenging elements in your role?
I enjoy playing common man roles, and I connected with that aspect of this character. My look in the film is different, and this is my first time playing a banker. It felt fresh and exciting. I’ve mostly done serious roles so far, and both the director and I felt it was time to break that mold. Audiences will see a very different Satyadev in this film. The idea of a common man triumphing will resonate with everyone.
Chiranjeevi praised you, saying a good film could elevate you to the next level. Will Zebra be that film?
Absolutely. A few people already watched the film and gave an outstanding response. Today, we have some paid premieres, and the entire team is excited. Everything has fallen into place perfectly for Zebra.
Has Chiranjeevi watched the film?
Annayya (Chiranjeevi) is currently in Japan. Once he returns, he’ll definitely watch it. I entered the industry inspired by him, and being in his good books is something I consider a blessing.
Since this is a crime story, how does the music complement it?
The film features montage songs, all of which are integral to the story. Ravi Basrur has given incredible music, and the background score is terrific.
Tell us about the producers.
This is my biggest movie yet. The film’s scale required a substantial budget. The world-building in the movie is exceptional and offers a fresh experience. The producers made the film with great passion.
What’s next for you?
Full Bottle is an out-and-out fun film. I’m also doing a movie with Venkatesh Maha, which has a fantastic story.