‘Bakasura Restaurant’ is a Complete Family Package : Director SJ Shiva

“Bakasura Restaurant” is a commercial experiment with a new genre. Like the films Yamaleela and Ghatotkachudu, this story will thrill audiences. We believe that people will appreciate such unique stories. The plot revolves around what happens when a gluttonous ghost enters our lives. The film is a complete package with horror, thriller, comedy, and emotion,” says Director SJ Shiva.

The film “Bakasura Restaurant” features comedian Praveen in the lead role, and Viva Harsha plays the title character. It also stars Krishna Bhagavan, Shining Phani, and KGF Garuda Ram in key roles. Produced under the SJ Movies banner by Lakshmaiah Achari and Janardhan Achari, this “hunger comedy entertainer” is all set for a worldwide release on August 8. Here’s an interview with Director SJ Shiva about the movie:

What is the storyline of “Bakasura Restaurant”?

“Bakasura Entertainment” is a hunger comedy entertainer. Telugu cinema has explored many genres, but this is a new one, introduced through our film. It’s a food-loving ghost story, and the comedy stems from that – hence, we call it hunger comedy. Ultimately, our aim is to entertain the audience.

Why did you cast comedian Praveen as the hero?

Initially, we discussed the film with other heroes. But they all said they only do solo-hero films. This story doesn’t fit that format. Around the same time, we heard that Praveen was planning to debut as a lead actor. We met him, narrated the story – it’s a comedy centered around five bachelors – and as soon as he heard it, he said, “The story is the hero, let’s do it.”

What’s your background?

I completed my International Business Management in London. I worked as an assistant director for the film Virupaksha. In the past, my father produced a few films. To fulfill his dream, I turned director and my elder brother became the producer.

Is the story set entirely in a restaurant?

Yes, the story is about a young man who dreams of opening a restaurant. We’ve blended this idea with horror, thrills, entertainment, and emotions. It’s a clean comedy that the whole family can enjoy together.

So, is this an experiment with a new genre?

Absolutely. This is both a new genre and a commercial experiment. Like Yamaleela and Ghatotkachudu, this story will thrill the audience. We believe audiences are open to unique concepts. The plot explores the chaos caused by a food-loving ghost entering people’s lives. The film is a full package with horror, thrills, comedy, and emotions.

Is it true that producer Dil Raju is distributing the film?

Yes. Sirish garu watched the film and appreciated it. He had a one-hour discussion with us about the story. We’re delighted that a renowned company like SVC is releasing our movie.

What do you say to those who question the high budget for a film with no big stars?

We trusted the story and made the film. These days, even casting a big star doesn’t guarantee returns. Instead of spending money on a star’s fee, we invested that amount in the production. We focused on quality filmmaking. Many successful films have proven that strong content matters more than big names.

Who will relate to this story the most?

Mainly, everyone will be reminded of their bachelor life. In the film, Viva Harsha plays Bakasura, the title character.

How was your first experience as a director?

Directing a film is tough. In the film industry, people don’t ask, “What’s the story?” or “How is the script?” – instead, they ask, “Who’s backing you? What’s the budget? What are your expectations?” Though films are about entertainment, people often ask everything except about the story.

What kind of films do you plan to make in the future?

I’m fond of films like those by Vithalacharya (known for fantasy and folklore). I want to create movies in that style. Right now, I have a faction-action entertainer script. Telugu audiences haven’t seen such a backdrop in a while.

Will your next film also be under your own banner?

Our SJ Movies banner is dedicated to encouraging new directors. So my next film will be produced under a different banner. But SJ Movies will continue producing back-to-back films.

Will there be a part 2 of Bakasura Restaurant?

No. The Bakasura character and its emotional arc conclude in this part itself.

What is your goal as a director?

I want to complete films in very few working days. In that aspect, Puri Jagannadh garu is my inspiration. Nowadays, I feel that a producer’s money is treated like a donation. Instead, money should be spent properly and effectively. That way, everyone benefits. For example, we made Bakasura Restaurant on a ₹5 crore budget, but it looks like a ₹12 crore output on screen.