4 Releases; Lull for Sankaranthi

In the wake of the economic meltdown in the US, every country, including India, is facing an economic crisis. Even an insular industry like the Indian film industry is facing a cash crunch as previously generous NRI investors are now unable to pump in as much finance as they used to for producing movies.

Not only that, 'A' grade stars do not command as much following as they used to in the previous century. Telugu film audiences have matured and demand better scripts rather than flocking to theatres to see their favourite idols in action. In light of these developments, Telugu film producers have become wary and fewer films are released on special occasions like Sankaranti Day.

This year, only 4 films are being released, only one being a mega-budget production. Arundhati, Fitting Master, Drona and Maska are the 4 films that are waiting for audience approval.

Arundhati, a heroine-oriented movie set in the period from the 1920s to the 21st century, stars pretty and curvaceous Anushka with an entirely new look. Directed by Kodi Rama Krishna and produced by Shyam Prasad Reddy, the film is rich in lavishly produced graphics and special effects.

Fitting Master is directed and produced by E.V.V. Satyanarayana under E.V.V. Cinema banner, starring Allari Naresh and Madalasa Sharma. The film"s makers say that the story revolves around the hero who instigates quarrels between people - all for a good purpose.

Maska, starring Ram, Hansika Motwani (also spelt Motwaani) and Sheela is directed by B. Gopal and produced by M.S. Raju under Sumanth Art Productions banner. The film is a youthful entertainer along the lines of Ready which starred Ram and Genelia.

Drona, presented by D. Saraswati and produced by D.S. Rao under Sai Krishna Productions banner introduces J. Karunkumar, S.S. Rajamouli's protege, as director. Nitin and Priyamani are acting together for the first time in this project.