Vijay Deverakonda has compared his period drama ‘Ranabaali’ to Hollywood films such as ‘Braveheart’, ‘Schindler’s List’ and ‘Inglourious Basterds’, describing it as an Indian, mass-market interpretation of historical cinema. Speaking at a promotional event in Vijayawada, the actor recalled how watching these films inspired his ambitions as a performer. His remarks come as ‘Ranabaali’ receives a mixed response from audiences and continues its theatrical run.
Vijay Deverakonda compares ‘Ranabaali’ to Hollywood films
At a promotional event in Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh, Vijay Deverakonda spoke about the inspiration behind ‘Ranabaali’ and reflected on how Hollywood films influenced his aspirations as an actor. Recalling the impact of films such as ‘Braveheart’ and ‘Schindler’s List’, Vijay said he had hoped to make Indian films that could deliver a similarly immersive cinematic experience. He also mentioned ‘Inglourious Basterds’, which he watched later in life.As quoted by The Indian Express, the actor said, “When I wanted to become an actor, I recalled how they would show us English films like Braveheart and Schindler’s List. I watched Inglourious Basterds once I grew up. When I watched these films, I hoped I would make something similar when I became an actor.”
‘Ranabaali is our Indian version of these films’, says Vijay Deverakonda
Elaborating on his vision for the period drama, Vijay described ‘Ranabaali’ as an Indian commercial interpretation of the historical films that inspired him.“Ranabaali is our Indian mass-commercial way of telling a Braveheart, Schindler’s List, and Inglourious Basterds. This is our history, our culture. It will take you to a whole new world for 2 hours and 50 minutes. This is my guarantee,” he added.The comparison has drawn attention amid the mixed response to the film, with viewers sharing differing opinions on social media.
What is ‘Ranabaali’ about? Cast and storyline
Set during British colonial rule, ‘Ranabaali’ explores the hardships faced by people in Rayalaseema against the backdrop of the Madras Famine of 1876–1878. The film stars Vijay Deverakonda in the titular role, alongside Rashmika Mandanna. The project marks their third on-screen collaboration after ‘Geetha Govindam’ and ‘Dear Comrade’. Hollywood actor Arnold Vosloo, known for ‘The Mummy’, plays the antagonist, Sir Theodore Hector.The period drama draws on a historical setting to tell a story of oppression and survival. Vijay’s comments suggest that the makers intend to combine this historical backdrop with the scale and storytelling style of mainstream Indian cinema.
‘Ranabaali’ box office collection
According to the Sacnilk figures provided in the source copy, ‘Ranabaali’ collected Rs 9.25 crore in India net collections on its opening day, October 16, followed by Rs 7.30 crore on Saturday, October 17.As of Day 3, the film’s India net collection stood at Rs 17.94 crore, while its India gross collection reached Rs 20.89 crore. The film was running across 680 shows, with final collections yet to be reported.