That’s My Entertainment recently had the opportunity to talk with some of the stars behind A&E’s, BATES MOTEL. Currently in it’s 4th season, Monday night’s episode marks the first episode in which the show’s star, Freddie Highmore, has taken on the additional role as writer. It isn’t the first time one of the cast members has stepped beyond the role of actor. Vera Farmiga, who stars a Norman’s mother Norma, is credited as Producer & Executive Producer on over a dozen of the episodes and co-star Nestor Carbonell (Sheriff Romero) has even directed an episode. We asked Creator, Writer, & Executive Producer, Kerry Ehrin as well as Norman Bates himself – Freddie Highmore some questions about the show and whats coming up.
Q:Freddie. I love your portrayal this season but am even more excited to see the episode that you wrote. Is this something that you want to get into more ?
A: Yes, I’d love to. I guess it was — I mean first of all, I’m obviously incredibly grateful to (Carlton) and Kerry for allowing the writers room and giving me an opportunity to write an episode and be a part of Bates Motel beyond merely acting. And I guess it was borne out of this desire to want to be involved in the wider process and it just seemed a little odd to me to put so much into this character for the four, five months that we shoot in Vancouver and then let it completely go and just sort of go away and ignore it for a few months. And then come back and be like, oh let’s just see what’s been happening.
(Unintelligible) continue to be involved in the wider process of creating the character. And so that’s I guess where the desire was borne out of and now very much so I am sort of loving — I love the writing experience on Bates Motel and being part of that team and am writing more things.
Q: Freddie, so I think this season separating Norman from Norma has really moved the story forward and I’d like you just to speak a little bit about how you think being separated from Norma has allowed Norman to evolve and to change.
A: I think part of the interesting thing about having separated Norma and Norman is that we’ve allowed the mother side to Norman to develop greater. And I think part of that is borne out of the fact that they are physically apart, and so through that sense of missing for her and yearning for her, he at times has visions of her, or more commonly starts to slip into that guise of being her. And I think that’s what was fascinating for me to play this season, those moments of transitions in scenes with Dr. Edwards, for example, where we see Norman slip into the guise of mother and take on this other side. And I feel like that is released because of their physical separation. So that’s been really, really fun to play.
Q:So like your character then, you sort of agree that he may have been better off just staying at home rather than going into Pine View?
A: Well, I feel like they have to be together. They really — there’s a scene at the end of eight when Norman says this to Norma and the whole Romero thing comes to the fore in number eight. And they do have to be together. They need to be with each other in order to function. And in a way from Norma’s point of view, I feel she slightly deludes herself by living in this dream, this very happy reality that she created with Romero. But when Norman comes home, as he eventually will, and we know from the story that he’s going to have to come back, it sort of becomes revealed as this more of a fantasy and of a dream of another life, but it’s not a life that she can ever actually leave.
And so I think Norman, in number eight, in a scene towards the end, really latches onto that idea of knowing how inseparable they really are. And as much as they want to deny it, or as much as they wish that it may not — might not be true, it always will be. No one will be able to get in between the two of them. No one will be able to break that cord.
Q: Kerry As the reimagined story of Psycho is taking its own directions, what are some of the biggest challenges with trying to keep it on track with at least some of the events in the original movie?
A:I don’t really see those as challenges. Those are more opportunities and they’re fun. When you can really organically pull in little important bits or an iconic image, a little bit of dialogue, a reference, those are fun. Those are fun to get to use and we use them sparingly. We always — Carlton, (cues) and I always from the beginning wanted it to feel like a world of its own but we wanted certain iconic presences like the house, the Psycho house. And when we get to use those things, it’s actually really, really fun. So I wouldn’t say it’s challenging. I’d say it’s sort of delicious.
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.
Top 5 Indian Action Movie Stars to Watch Out For
James Gunn’s Love for RRR: The Rise of NTR Jr. as a Global Phenomenon
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