JJ Abrams introduces SS Rajamouli at sold-out IMAX screening of RRR: ‘Film I love and a filmmaker I so admire’

JJ Abrams was present at the sold-out IMAX screening of RRR to present writer-director SS Rajamouli. The American filmmaker said it was his privilege to introduce Rajamouli as he was a big fan of the Telugu film. His presence was an added surprise for the fans who came to watch the film; many had already seen the film before. The screening, which went ahead despite heavy rains and flooding in Los Angeles, was sold out in 98 seconds once the tickets went on sale. (Also read: RRR show at Beyond Fest gets sold out in 98 seconds: ‘There’s never been a screening like this of an Indian film before’)

JJ, who is known for directing the Hollywood films Mission: Impossible III (2006), Star Trek (2009), Super 8 (2011) and Star Wars: The Force Awakens (2015), thanked the crowd for being there to watch the film and said, “I’m honoured to be here for a film I love and a filmmaker I so admire.” The video of his introduction was captured by many fans and critics who were in attendance.

The American filmmaker added he was astonished to find out that Rajamouli shot for RRR for 328 days when he talked to him about the film. “This movie is incredible and I love it. I love his exuberance, I love his friendship, I love his heart. I love what it says about fighting for what’s right. I love the music, the setting, the fever dream madness of this movie is more fun that you’ll have in theatre that you can imagine than any other film. It’s so wonderful,” he gushed.

Rajamouli later told the audience, “To everyone who hasn’t seen the film, I apologize on behalf of those who have seen the film. They’re a rowdy bunch.” He also asked them to catch up what they might have missed by watching the movie again.

The Telugu film has picked up strong Oscar buzz ahead of the nominations being announced later this month. RRR, which stars Ram Charan and Jr NTR, is nominated for two Golden Globes in the Best Foreign Film and Best Original Song categories. Rajamouli and the two lead stars will be attending the star-studded event on Tuesday in Los Angeles for the awards’ 80th edition.

ott:10