In an exciting homage to both the iconic dialogue and timeless movie, “Pulp Fiction,” directors Raj Nidimoru and Krishna D.K., popularly known as Raj & DK, are set to release their latest venture, “Citadel: Honey Bunny.” This compelling Indian adaptation offers a fresh twist, building on its notable predecessor, the American series Citadel. By reincarnating the phrase “Honey Bunny” from Tim Roth’s memorable line to Amanda Plummer, they introduce a captivating world that intertwines love, betrayal, and espionage in the pop-culture-rich era of the 1990s.
Headlining the series are renowned actors Varun Dhawan and Samantha Ruth Prabhu, each bringing a unique flavor to this anticipated cinematic concoction. Aligning as a spiritual spin-off and a prequel, “Citadel: Honey Bunny” delves into an India-specific context while dovetailing with the franchise’s global narrative presence in countries like Italy and Mexico, dreamt up and executed by the Russo brothers.
Keeping true to their inventive storytelling style, Raj & DK ensure the series maintains a distinctly Indian essence. In the vibrant and tumultuous landscape of 1990s India, stuntman Bunny, portrayed by Dhawan, and aspiring actress Honey, played by Samantha, find themselves unexpectedly embroiled in a life-altering spy mission. Their journey takes a poignant turn when the estranged couple is forced to reunite to safeguard their daughter, Nadia. Within the main Citadel narrative, Nadia is portrayed by global star Priyanka Chopra Jonas.
In an exchange with The Hindu, Varun Dhawan expressed his excitement about embodying a character fitted to the grunge and flair of the late 80s and 90s. He shared, “I was shown mood-boards filled with vibrant, era-specific attire ranging from leather jackets to high-waisted pants, which instantly transported me to that electric time.” Drawing comparisons to action icons such as Mel Gibson and Bollywood stars of the 90s like Sanjay Dutt, Dhawan reveled in the stylistic homage.
Meanwhile, Samantha Ruth Prabhu reflected on the nuances of her role as Honey, humorously reminiscing about her earlier film ventures which lent her character some depth. “Navigating Honey’s journey, especially as a struggling actress, I waded through a spectrum of emotions – sadness, anger, angst – making those scenes a refreshing interlude between the intense action sequences,” she revealed, adding humor to her narrative.
.
Raj Nidimoru highlighted the creative freedom permitted by the Russo brothers, unlike the conventional American script regimen. “When we had the opportunity to contribute to a project of this scale, their openness was unexpected yet liberating,” he admitted. Without rigid boundaries, they forged an environment echoing both homage and originality, striking a balance that expands the franchise’s horizon.
Shooting this high-stakes series wasn’t devoid of challenges. Varun Dhawan described the importance of authenticity as crucial, marveling at Samantha in their first interaction scene discussing Baba, the influential spymaster played by Kay Kay Menon. “The depth of emotion delivered through sustained interaction, with minimal cutaways, really intensified the drama,” he explained.
Samantha recalls grueling yet exhilarating stunts, notably a car sequence that tested her mettle. “By then, I had handled elaborate action scenes; however, coordinating with two co-actors and a swerving car was unexpectedly challenging. Raj might claim it took 12 takes; I think it stretched to 40, but the adrenaline was worth it!” she exclaimed, highlighting the immersive nature of the shoot.
Both actors and creators underscored the project’s cultural authenticity. “We strive to present content that is deeply rooted in our heritage without shading under Western paradigms,” Dhawan emphasized, advocating for an Indian narrative that resonates globally. Samantha echoed this sentiment, citing productions like “Shogun” as examples, which despite smaller scales, resonated due to their cultural significance.
As the global entertainment landscape continues to embrace diversified narratives, Raj Nidimoru expressed optimism for Indian shows breaking through on the world stage, given the right exposure and promotion. The excitement for “Citadel: Honey Bunny” is palpable, promising to deliver a narrative as rich in action as it is in cultural texture. Fans and critics alike eagerly await this curtain-lifting moment in Indian cinema, premiering soon.
