Q:Congratulations on getting a role on the Punisher! That is awesome-sauce.
JM: Thank you so much.
Q:The character you’re playing, Curtis Hoyle, he has a longstanding history in the comic books.
JM: Yes he does, he’s definitely an established character in the comic books, which made it easy for my research.
Q:So you did do some research into the comics?
JM: Yes I did do some research into the comics, and I would say that even though they deviate a little bit from what’s in the comics, its in a very creative way. The show-runners seem to have taken a liking to this version of the character.
Q:Can you expound a bit upon how they deviated from the char as it is in the comics, or is that a spoiler?
JM: One major fact is that y’know, the character in the comics is white, and I’m black, so that’s one deviation.
Q:Hopefully in this day and age, that won’t matter!
JM: I don’t think it will matter either. Curtis Hoyle and Frank Castle are really good buddies, they’re both like ex-special forces, and they’re both trying to make their way in normal society. In terms of deviation I can’t reveal more because that really would be spoilers – we really want you guys to watch it and enjoy it.
Q: We are all very much anticipating watching the show! So without spoilers, what can fans of the Punisher expect to see from Curtis Hoyle in the first season? Do you know if Curtis is going to be in the second season, or is that also a spoiler? ‘Cuz you know Punisher is going to have to have a second season.
JM: Well, I sure hope so! It’d be great for the show to continue. I think the show is good and it’s gonna be here real soon. But what you would see first from Curtis, you’d see a guy who is trying to help others. I would say the show is tackling a major task, addressing how we as soldiers re-acclimate back into society. And dealing with PTSD, trying to help other soldiers do that, and just become functional citizens in society. That’s what you’ll be seeing from Curtis.
Q:That actually leads into my next question – you play a veteran support group leader in some pretty heavy scenes on the show, did you consult any military counselors, therapists, or actual veterans with PTSD in real life to kind of prepare for the role?
JM: Marvel Studios was really generous with helping us do the research, providing us with people I could really speak to. Talking with people who were soldiers, people who suffer from PTSD, and here’s the great thing, the thing you might not know – the people in those scenes are all from the military, one way or another, in real life. Army, Navy, real Military, actual Vets, here on set. All I need to do is ask them. They helped me out a lot, in terms of psychology of the soldier, and trying to understand all forms of PTSD, they really helped me in that capacity. We talk about these issues and we celebrate the Vets, on this show, a lot.
Q:That’s fantastic. Your character Curtis Hoyle could be interpreted as kind of Jiminy Cricket to Frank Castle, as it were. But in other scenes you’re kind of a devils advocate, how interesting was it for you to take on that kind of dual role?
JM: It’s good. As an actor, that’s the kind of stuff you want to do. You want to play complex characters, characters that have conflict, even within themselves, any kind of conflict is so important, because that’s what people bite into. That’s when you can really tell, the writer and the creators did some extra work. And so, working with Jon (Bernthal), it was a tremendous pleasure. I always tell him, he has great leadership qualities and he doesn’t even know it. (laughs) He’s not even aware of it, but he does. Our characters’ relationship is very dynamic. He’s like one of Curtis’ great friends, and we also butt heads. Which good friends do, good friends butt heads and have good times, laugh and do all that stuff together too.
Q:You butt heads, you make up, you maybe go out and have a beer and the occasional fistfight, y’know, what friends do!
JM: Absolutely. So look for some of that conflict in there, with Curtis and Frank, there should be enough of that.
Q: So Curtis Hoyle was in the service with Frank Castle, and they met during the Vietnam war. At least, in the comic books.
JM: We’re not that old, so that’s another one of the deviations from the comic books.
Q: Makes sense. It would actually take some mad skills on Curtis’ part to be able to impress The Punisher and y’know, make friends with him, especially around and during whatever war they happened to meet at. Do we actually get to see Curtis use any kind of physical fighting skills, for the first season, does he kick some ass somewhere? Does he have to?
JM: I’m not ruining anything for you. That is a spoiler question! He is a soldier, I will say that, that’s a big part of it.
Q:Is there anything you would like to allude to about the show, without giving actual spoilers? Maybe a teaser?
JM: I will say this – without spoiling anything, in terms of characters of The Punisher, I think more people have died in the first season of The Punisher than pretty much all the other shows combined. Cuz he’s The Punisher, so he has to do a lot of punishing.
Q:We all eagerly look forward to the show coming out on Netflix November 17, 2017!
JM: Not soon enough, I tell you! It’s two days before my birthday actually.
Q:Well, happy early birthday! You will definitely have to do something rocking to celebrate both your birthday and The Punisher coming out.
JM: I surely appreciate it, and will find something rocking to do.
Q: We all sincerely hope your character makes it to the highly anticipated second season of the Punisher. Any good “no sh*t there I was” stories from on the set of The Punisher?
JM: Plenty of those, but those moments are all full of spoilers! If I give you one thing, I’m telling you, it’s gonna ruin part of the experience for you! I really want people to get the full experience and the best value, from The Punisher.
Thank you so much for speaking with me!
As a devoted fan of South Indian action cinema and an entertainment journalist, I’ve come to admire the sheer charisma, talent, and screen presence of a few iconic actors who have redefined the genre. Here’s a list of my top five favorite Indian action heroes, along with a couple of must-watch movies from each of them that showcase their incredible prowess on screen.
- NTR Jr.
Nandamuri Taraka Rama Rao Jr., known as NTR Jr., is an electrifying performer who blends action and emotion effortlessly. His dialogue delivery, intensity, and dance moves make him a powerhouse in South Indian cinema.
Must-Watch Movies:
RRR (2022): Directed by S.S. Rajamouli, this epic action-drama showcases NTR Jr. as Komaram Bheem, a fierce and compassionate warrior.
Temper (2015): NTR Jr. delivers a riveting performance as a corrupt cop who embarks on a journey of redemption.
- Allu Arjun
The “Stylish Star” of Tollywood, Allu Arjun, is celebrated for his fluid dance moves, charismatic screen presence, and action-packed roles. His ability to transform into diverse characters has won him a massive fanbase.
Must-Watch Movies:
Pushpa: The Rise (2021): As Pushpa Raj, a smuggler with unyielding determination, Allu Arjun delivers a gritty and unforgettable performance.
Ala Vaikunthapurramuloo (2020): While not strictly an action film, it features intense fight scenes and showcases Allu Arjun’s versatility.
- Prabhas
Known for his larger-than-life roles, Prabhas has become a global sensation. His dedication to his craft and ability to headline mega-budget films set him apart.
Must-Watch Movies:
Baahubali: The Beginning (2015) & Baahubali: The Conclusion (2017): These iconic films, directed by S.S. Rajamouli, transformed Prabhas into a household name.
Saaho (2019): A high-octane action-thriller where Prabhas portrays an enigmatic cop.
- Yash
Yash’s meteoric rise to stardom is nothing short of inspirational. His raw energy, intense action sequences, and ability to connect with audiences have solidified his status as a South Indian action hero.
Must-Watch Movies:
KGF: Chapter 1 (2018) & KGF: Chapter 2 (2022): Yash as Rocky Bhai is a cinematic phenomenon, blending larger-than-life action with a gripping storyline.
Masterpiece (2015): A lesser-known gem that highlights Yash’s charisma and action chops.
- Ram Charan
Ram Charan, a dynamic performer, has mastered the art of blending action, drama, and dance in his roles. His nuanced performances and incredible screen presence make him a fan favorite.
Must-Watch Movies:
RRR (2022): His portrayal of Alluri Sitarama Raju, alongside NTR Jr., is a masterclass in action and emotion.
Magadheera (2009): A timeless classic that combines action, romance, and fantasy in a spellbinding narrative.
Why These Actors Shine
What makes these stars stand out in the realm of South Indian action movies is their ability to push boundaries, take on challenging roles, and deliver performances that resonate with audiences. Whether it’s NTR Jr.’s emotional depth, Allu Arjun’s stylish personas, Prabhas’s epic presence, Yash’s raw intensity, or Ram Charan’s versatility, these actors have set benchmarks in the industry.
So, if you’re an action movie enthusiast like me, dive into their filmographies—you won’t be disappointed!
When RRR stormed onto the global stage, it didn’t just captivate audiences—it redefined Indian cinema’s reach. Among the legion of admirers is none other than James Gunn, the mastermind behind Guardians of the Galaxy and the architect of DC Studios’ cinematic future. Gunn’s vocal admiration for the film, particularly its star NTR Jr., has sparked excitement in Hollywood and beyond. It’s a testament to NTR Jr.’s exceptional talent and a long-overdue recognition of his abilities as an actor of extraordinary caliber.
In interviews and social media posts, Gunn has repeatedly praised RRR for its storytelling, high-octane action, and emotionally charged performances. However, what truly stood out for the acclaimed filmmaker was NTR Jr.’s portrayal of Komaram Bheem. Gunn lauded NTR Jr.’s magnetic screen presence, noting how his nuanced performance struck the perfect balance between raw intensity and heartfelt vulnerability. For Gunn, this wasn’t just an appreciation of a great film—it was a call to collaborate with an actor who embodies the charisma and skill needed for global stardom.
As Gunn reshapes the DC Universe, the prospect of bringing NTR Jr. into the fold feels like a natural progression. With his eye for blending humor, heart, and heroism, Gunn’s creative vision would pair seamlessly with NTR Jr.’s dynamic acting range.
Nandamuri Taraka Rama Rao Jr., affectionately known as Tarak, is no stranger to acclaim. Hailing from the illustrious Nandamuri family, his rise to stardom was marked by a series of standout performances in Telugu cinema. With each role, NTR Jr. has proven his versatility, effortlessly transitioning from emotionally driven characters in films like Yamadonga to action-packed blockbusters such as Temper and Janatha Garage. His role in RRR, however, elevated his craft to an international platform.
In RRR, NTR Jr. brought Komaram Bheem to life with an intensity that left audiences in awe. From the iconic jungle tiger scene to the emotionally wrenching friendship dynamic with Ram Charan’s Raju, he carried the weight of the film on his broad shoulders with effortless grace. His ability to portray strength, resilience, and vulnerability in equal measure cements him as one of Indian cinema’s greatest.
For years, Indian actors have slowly been making their mark on Hollywood, but NTR Jr. is poised to take it a step further. His universal appeal, combined with his dedication to his craft, makes him a natural choice for a crossover into global cinema. James Gunn’s interest in collaborating with him is not just a compliment—it’s a recognition of the talent that has long deserved a spotlight.
In a time when audiences are demanding more diverse stories and authentic representation, NTR Jr.’s inclusion in a major Hollywood franchise would be a game-changer. Whether as a DC superhero, a cosmic adventurer, or a complex antihero, Tarak has the range to bring any character to life.
Gunn’s admiration for RRR and NTR Jr. signifies more than just a potential collaboration. It’s a validation of Indian cinema’s ability to produce world-class talent and stories that resonate across cultures. As filmmakers like Gunn shine a light on stars like NTR Jr., the gap between Bollywood, Tollywood, and Hollywood continues to narrow, creating a truly global entertainment industry.
For NTR Jr., this could be the beginning of a journey that takes him from an Indian megastar to an international icon. As fans of cinema, we can only hope that James Gunn’s vision materializes, giving us the opportunity to see Tarak in a role that matches his immense potential. After all, it’s about time the world recognizes what Indian audiences have known for years—NTR Jr. is a force to be reckoned with.
Review By: Raja V. Deva
Genre: Political Action Thriller
Runtime: Approximately 165 minutes
Director: S. Shankar
Writer: Story by Karthik Subbaraj; Screenplay by S. Shankar, Vivek, and Venkatesan
Cast: Ram Charan, Kiara Advani, Anjali, S. J. Suryah, Srikanth, Sunil, Jayaram, Samuthirakani
Music Composer: Thaman S
“Game Changer” marks S. Shankar’s foray into Telugu cinema with a political action thriller designed to be grand in scale and ambition. The film features Ram Charan in dual roles: Appanna, a shrewd political leader, and his son, Ram Nandan, an upright IAS officer determined to clean up a corrupt system. However, despite the actor’s valiant efforts, the story doesn’t fully work with Ram Charan in the lead.
Originally conceptualized for another actor, the film’s narrative feels like it was tailored for someone with real-life political aspirations. While Ram Charan brings his star power and intensity to the roles, the weighty political undertones and the narrative’s structure don’t align well with his on-screen persona. His dual performance showcases his range, but the emotional depth and conviction required to anchor such a politically charged film seem misaligned with his strengths.
The supporting cast provides decent performances, with Kiara Advani and Anjali making their presence felt, though their characters lack depth. S. J. Suryah stands out as a formidable antagonist, adding gravitas to the film. Thaman S’s background score enhances the mood, though the songs occasionally disrupt the flow of the narrative.
Visually, the film boasts stunning production values and large-scale set pieces, typical of Shankar’s style. However, even the grandeur and intricate action sequences can’t mask the disjointed storytelling. The screenplay struggles to balance its political commentary with its action-oriented approach, leaving neither element fully realized.
Ultimately, “Game Changer” feels like a project that missed its mark. The story might resonate with audiences interested in political drama or those with a penchant for larger-than-life narratives, but it doesn’t do justice to Ram Charan’s abilities or his established image.
Rating: 6/10
For fans of Ram Charan or political thrillers, it might be worth a watch, but “Game Changer” feels like an opportunity lost to deliver a truly compelling cinematic experience.
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