Creating larger than life frames

EVERYONE WHO WATCHED THE RECENT BLOCKBUSTER HIT FILM KGF CHAPTER 2 SAT UP AND ACKNOWLEDGED ITS INCREDIBLE CINEMATOGRAPHY. MEET THE MAN BEHIND IT ALL - BHUVAN GOWDA WHO OPENS UP ABOUT HIS BOND WITH DIRECTOR PRASHANTH NEEL AND WHAT GOES ON BEHIND THE CAMERA IN THIS CANDID INTERVIEW WITH PROVOKE MAGAZINE

What inspired you to enter the world of films?

I had no inspiration to enter the world of cinema. I was a still photographer and was doing modeling, commercials, and film promotion photography. When Prashanth Neel sir started shooting his first film Ugramm, I joined the crew as a still photographer. During the shoot, the cinematographer left due to some issues, and Prashanth sir asked me to do the cinematography for the film. I didn't have any experience but he had confidence in me and that's how I started my journey into the world of cinema.

Tell us about your bond with director Prashanth Neel?

During the Ugramm film shooting, our friendship started and we became close friends. The film was shot for four years and it has been a long journey. Prashanth sir likes my framing and lighting a lot. I have never worked as an assistant for anyone but Prashanth sir was there to teach me cinematography. He is the one who taught me cinematography. I know his pulse and it made KGF filmmaking even easier. We both don't talk much on sets but with his facial expression, I understand what he wants.

Both KGF 1 & 2 has been captured in a dark tone, who's idea was that?

It was both of our ideas actually. Both I and Prashanth sir don't like bright colours and for our story KGF, too many colours won't look good and we thought dark ones would be apt. Actually, Prashanth sir goes to the set before the shooting and tells us what theme and colour we should go for the day.

Tell us more about shooting the epic climax scene under water?

All the credit goes to Prashanth sir. Usually he narrates the script on the day of the shoot and we were not aware that it was the climax. I can't say where it was shot as it's a secret. We want our audience to stay curious.