
From Passion to Screen:
The Rise of Venkat Sai Gunda
Rodartin S.L., co-led by Rodrigo Torres and Darwin Reina, is a prominent film production company based in Barcelona, Spain, dedicated to bringing talented filmmakers and actors together to create impactful, emotionally resonant films. In this interview, Darwin Reina sits down with actor and filmmaker Venkat Sai Gunda, whose journey in the world of cinema has been nothing short of remarkable. With a deep passion for storytelling, Venkat has worn multiple hats in the industry, from acting to directing and producing. In this insightful conversation, he shares his experiences, challenges, and inspirations as he continues to rise on the global cinematic stage.
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How did you first get into the industry, and what inspired you to pursue a career in film?
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I always envisioned myself as the protagonist of a film, living out the stories I imagined. Growing up, I would often rewrite movie endings in my mind or craft my own narratives, placing myself at the center of the action. Films made me feel alive and deeply connected to emotions I didn’t even realize I had. That impact inspired me to create those same experiences for others. It started as a dream, and one day, I decided to turn it into reality.
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As an actor/director, what do you enjoy most about the creative process?
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As an actor and filmmaker, I find joy in every aspect of the cinematic and storytelling process. With The Deserving, I was deeply involved in everything from the ground up, embracing every moment, the challenges and the triumphs alike. As an actor, stepping into the psyche of my character was a profound learning experience, especially because the character was so different from who I am in real life. It pushed me to grow and understand new dimensions of human behavior, which I thoroughly enjoyed. But above all, being on set is where I feel truly alive — it’s the place where creativity thrives, and I love every second of it.

How do you cope with rejection and setbacks, and how do you celebrate your successes?
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I view rejections and setbacks as valuable learning opportunities. They allow me to identify what could have been done better and motivate me to improve for the future. I try to maintain a positive mindset regardless of the outcome, as negativity can hinder progress, and I actively work to keep it at bay. When it comes to celebrating successes, I make it a point to share the joy with my team. Filmmaking is a collaborative effort, and every achievement is the result of collective dedication and hard work, making those moments even more meaningful.
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What is your method or preparation process when approaching a new role or project?
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When approaching a new role or project, I immerse myself fully into the character’s world. I strive to understand how they think, behave, and react, so I can truly become that person during the shoot, rather than mimicking a similar character I’ve seen before. For me, it’s not about acting — it’s about living as that character in the moment.
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For The Deserving and the role of Karter, I spent significant time researching and understanding the challenges faced by mute individuals. I learned about American Sign Language (ASL) and how it plays a crucial role in their communication, which gave me an entirely new perspective on how difficult and nuanced their experiences are. It was a transformative process that required me to deeply empathize with the character’s struggles.
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I also take time to conduct thorough research about every role I play. I develop a series of questions about the character — who they are, what drives them, and how they see the world — and I answer them from their perspective. This approach helps me build a deeper connection with the character, allowing me to bring authenticity and nuance to the performance. Every role is a journey of discovery, and I embrace it fully.


What motivates you to keep pushing forward in such a challenging industry?
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What keeps me pushing forward in this challenging industry is my unwavering passion for storytelling and my deep love for cinema. No matter how difficult or unpredictable the journey may be, my commitment to this art form is eternal. For me, filmmaking is not just a career — it’s a calling, a dream that I refuse to let go of. The challenges only fuel my determination to thrive because my love for cinema is far greater than any obstacle. It’s that love that keeps me motivated and drives me to pursue my vision, no matter what.
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Which two actors or directors would you most like to collaborate with, and why?
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I am open to collaborating with any actor or director, as the creative field is all about embracing individuality and the unique perspectives each person brings to the table. Every artist has their own creative essence and distinct flavor, which can enrich the storytelling process. I believe in working with individuals who share a deep love and passion for cinema — those who are committed to creating an experience that resonates with the audience, allowing them to feel the emotions and journey we experience through the story. Collaboration, for me, is about passion and shared vision, regardless of names or fame.
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That said, Martin Scorsese and Quentin Tarantino are two directors who inspire me immensely. Their unique storytelling styles and their ability to craft immersive worlds captivate me and push me to think differently about filmmaking. When it comes to actors and actresses, I draw inspiration from everyone who pours their heart into their performance, fully embodying their characters and making the audience truly feel their journey. It’s this dedication and artistry that I admire most in the people I collaborate with.

If you were not pursuing a career in film, what other profession might you have chosen?
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That’s a tough question because I’ve never imagined my life without cinema — it’s such an integral part of who I am. If I weren’t a filmmaker or actor, I’d probably still find a way to be involved in the world of films, maybe as a professional film watcher (if such a career existed, which I highly doubt! 😄).
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On a more practical note, I’d likely pursue photography. It’s another form of storytelling that allows you to capture emotions and moments in a single frame, which deeply resonates with me. Photography, like filmmaking, is all about perspective and creativity, so it would still align with my passion for bringing stories to life.
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What advice would you give to aspiring actors and directors who may be on the verge of giving up?
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Never give up on your dreams. True dedication and perseverance will yield results, even if it takes time. Always hold onto hope and stay positive, no matter how challenging the journey may seem.
As a filmmaker or actor, it can feel disheartening when you pour your heart into a project and don’t see immediate success, whether it’s financial or critical. But remember, the very act of creating a film and sharing your story with an audience is a success in itself. Every project, even those that don’t work out as planned, teaches you something valuable and gets you one step closer to your goals.
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Learn from mistakes, grow with each experience, and keep telling your stories. If one project doesn’t work out, the next one might be the breakthrough you’re waiting for. DON’T GIVE UP — your passion and persistence will eventually lead you to where you’re meant to be.
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What words of inspiration or resilience would you like to share with others in the industry or those just starting out?
The journey in the film industry is never easy, but that’s what makes it worth it. Every setback, every rejection, and every challenge is an opportunity to learn, grow, and become stronger. Remember that success doesn’t happen overnight — it’s a culmination of persistence, hard work, and an unwavering belief in your vision.
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For those just starting out, embrace the struggles and stay true to your passion. Never compare your journey to others; everyone has their own timeline. Celebrate the small victories, find joy in the process, and keep moving forward, even when the path seems uncertain.
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Your unique voice matters. Stay resilient, be patient, and trust that your dedication will lead you to the right opportunities. Keep dreaming, keep creating, and keep believing in the power of your story. The industry may be tough, but so are you.

Short Biography:
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Hailing from India, Venkat Sai Gunda has always been deeply connected to storytelling. From a young age, he used photography as a creative outlet to weave narratives, but his cinematic journey truly began with the web series VVP. Taking on multiple roles as the lead actor, assistant director, and drone operator, the series garnered over 3 million views, showcasing Venkat’s multifaceted talent.
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Although he earned a Master’s degree from NY, his love for acting, kindled during his school days through skits and performances, has only grown stronger over the years. A self-taught filmmaker and actor, Venkat’s versatility is evident in The Deserving, where he served as the lead actor, casting director, executive producer, and producer.
The Deserving has received international acclaim, winning multiple awards for Best Film and Best Actor, solidifying Venkat’s position as a rising talent on the global stage. As he continues his cinematic journey, Venkat is already preparing to direct a new feature film set to begin production in 2025. With his passion and dedication, Venkat Sai Gunda is paving the way for his mark in international cinema, inspiring others to chase their dreams fearlessly.
To learn more about Venkat Sai Gunda and stay updated on his latest projects, be sure to follow him on IMDb and through his social media channels.
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Disclaimer: All responses and images featured in this interview were provided directly by the interviewee. The views, opinions, and statements expressed are solely those of the interviewee and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of Rodartin S.L.Any inaccuracies in the responses are unintentional and the responsibility of the interviewee. Images are published with permission and remain the property of their respective owner(s). Unauthorized use, duplication, or redistribution is prohibited.
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