KD is a 1970s real-life story told on a grand scale: Prem

As KD: The Devil, directed by Prem and starring Dhruva Sarja and Reeshma Nanaiah, gears up for its release today, the filmmaker reflects on bringing a rooted story to the screen on a larger-than-life canvas. Produced by Venkat K Narayana under KVN Productions, the film, he promises, will be a blend of scale and simplicity.

Prem, who has been directing for nearly three decades, shares that he approaches each project with the same sense of newness. “People ask me how this film is different from my previous films. I cannot say, because I never compare my work. Every film is like my first film,” he says.

Set in the 1970s and inspired by real events, the film aims to elevate a common man’s story through cinematic spectacle, according to the director. “I wanted to have the scale, hard work and tech that goes into making mythological films these days, but for a common man’s story. The story is simple, but the scale and visuals are larger than life,” Prem explains.



The film also brings together a notable ensemble, including Sudeep, Sanjay Dutt, Shilpa Shetty, Ravichandran and Ramesh Aravind. However, Prem is quick to clarify that these appearances are integral to the narrative. “Dhruva Sarja had been wanting to do a film with me for a long time, and I wanted to get the right script for him. KD was apt. The film does not have big stars for the sake of having star cameos in the film. Their characters add weight and value to the film,” he says.

Staying true to his philosophy, Prem leaves the final verdict to the audience. “I never tell my audiences to watch a film for a particular reason… All I can say is that it's pure entertainment, and the audiences can decide why this film must be watched,” he signs off.Get the latest entertainment updates from the Times of India, along with the latest Hindi movies, upcoming Hindi movies in 2026 , and Telugu movies.”