At the pre-release event, you recalled Trivikram’s words about telling a simple story strongly. Why did you connect that thought with EPIC?
Anand Deverakonda: Trivikram Garu once said that an ordinary story can be narrated powerfully without depending on twists or violence. EPIC is precisely that kind of love story. It follows an ordinary young man from Wanaparthy who sacrifices his passion and travels abroad for his parents. The film explores how his outlook changes after moving overseas, falling in love and entering a live-in relationship. Aditya has presented everything naturally and handled the live-in relationship sensitively, ensuring that family audiences can watch the film comfortably.

What can audiences expect from EPIC – FIRST SEMESTER?
Anand Deverakonda: Our team has been confident about the film from the beginning. I believe it will connect with audiences from the 1980s, 1990s and 2000s. The story is not limited to students who move abroad. Anyone who has lived away from their family will understand its emotions. Small decisions carry enormous importance in a middle-class youngster’s life, and the film explores career choices, love, relationships and family responsibilities realistically. Several situations feel like reflections of real life. Viewers will recognise themselves in the story and discuss its different perspectives. EPIC does not feel like a conventional film; it feels like a beautiful journey.

Did you personally relate to your character, Aditya?
Anand Deverakonda: Absolutely. When I first heard the story, I immediately felt that it was similar to my own journey. I studied in America and could relate personally to many situations. Telugu youngsters pursuing education in America, the UK, Australia, Germany or elsewhere will connect strongly with the story. Many leave their families hoping to build a stable life and overcome financial challenges. EPIC represents their emotional journey.

Tell us more about your character.
Anand Deverakonda: Aditya is an innocent young man who remains confused about several important decisions. He wonders whether to follow his dreams or fulfil his parents’ wishes. He also questions whether his feelings for Kadali are truly love, whether he should marry her and whether they can spend their lives together. These are doubts many young people experience. Every scene and dialogue has been designed to connect with audiences emotionally.

Will the success of Baby influence expectations surrounding EPIC?
Anand Deverakonda: Baby became a huge success, so comparisons are natural whenever Vaishnavi and I appear together. However, Baby and EPIC are entirely different films with distinct identities. If Baby was a sensation, EPIC is a beautiful journey. Our reunion has created interest, but audiences are equally excited because of Aditya Hasan and the success of his 90s web series. That recognition is a major advantage for the film.

Is EPIC a continuation of the 90s web series?
Anand Deverakonda: No, EPIC is not a sequel to 90s, although its story emerges from the same world and characters. The film follows the younger son, Aditya, as he moves abroad for his education. His parents appear only to the extent required by the narrative. While 90s was primarily a family story, EPIC is a love story featuring similarly natural humour and heartfelt emotions.

What can you reveal about Vaishnavi Chaitanya’s character, Kadali?
Anand Deverakonda: Kadali is a character with whom many women will identify. A woman may appear cheerful on the outside while carrying fears, responsibilities and personal struggles behind her smile. Kadali represents those unspoken emotions and has been written with considerable depth.

Do you discuss films with your sister-in-law, Rashmika?
Anand Deverakonda: We do not discuss films very often. However, when we felt tense while finalising the release date of EPIC, she supported me emotionally and stood by me.

What are your upcoming projects?
Anand Deverakonda: I have completed shooting for Takshakudu. I have also finished working on an Indo-Korean film. With EPIC – FIRST SEMESTER, Anand Deverakonda and Vaishnavi Chaitanya reunite to present a fresh, relatable love story centred on relationships, personal dreams and family responsibilities. The film releases worldwide on September 11, 2026.