Nandamuri Balakrishna Slams Long Film Runtimes Trend: ‘There’s No Story’

Nandamuri Balakrishna is awaiting the release of his upcoming period drama, Akhanda 2. Slated for release on December 5, Boyapati Sreenu’s directorial has been postponed. But ahead of its expected release,

the veteran Telugu star had been actively promoting the much-awaited sequel.

During a recent promotional interaction, the actor sparked discussion by criticising the increasing trend of lengthy movie runtimes in the film industry.

NBK Questions Why Films Are Getting Longer

In an interview with 14 Reels Plus, Balakrishna expressed concern over filmmakers stretching thin storylines into excessively long films.

“Nowadays, we are seeing films that run beyond three hours… There’s no story,” the Daaku Maharaj actor said bluntly.

“They take one small point, and it is stretched for three hours or even more than a three-hour film. I don’t understand why. When big films arrive, there is huge expectation behind them,” he added.

Reflecting on the release of Akhanda during the peak of COVID-19 fears, Balakrishna recalled how the team was nervous but ultimately delivered a massive success.

He emphasised that Akhanda had a strong story and a “larger-than-life narrative,” which justified its extended runtime, unlike many new releases, he noted.

Akhanda 2: Thaandavam’s Storyline And Cast

Made under the direction of Boyapati Srinu, Akhanda 2: Thaandavam continues the story of the 2021 blockbuster Akhanda. The movie continues the tale of Aghora Akhanda Rudra Sikandar as he faces a bigger threat, aiming to put an end to the tyranny caused by enemies.

The sequel, bankrolled by Ram Achanta, Gopichand Achanta and Ishan Saksena under 14 Reels Plus and IVY Entertainment, brings back Balakrishna in his dual avatars—Akhanda, an aghora, and Murali Krishna, a morally upright civilian. Apart from NBK, the film also stars an ensemble cast of talented actors, including Samyuktha, Aadhi Pinisetty, Harshaali Malhotra, Kabir Duhan Singh, Saswata Chatterjee, and many others in key roles.

The paid premieres of the movie were initially planned for December 4, but they were scrapped, and the overseas screenings were disrupted due to pending Key Delivery Messages (KDMs).

What’s Next For Nandamuri Balakrishna?

The actor is set to collaborate with Jaat director Gopichand Malineni for an upcoming period action drama, tentatively titled NBK111. The film is said to feature the actor in dual roles, and Nayanthara is roped in for playing the female lead.