Andhra Arizona

THE SPRAWLING Arizona military base. Several smartly dressed marine corps move around in those rugged army vehicles. The atmosphere suddenly changes whenever the commander and the higher echelons of the base camp pass through the area. A few young and beautiful lady officers too make their presence felt.

Inside the officers club they are a relaxed lot. While some officers test their skills at the billiards table some others enjoy their favourite drink. The low lights enhance the beauty of the plush place. And the camera cans both the places in numerous shots for the Hollywood film, `Quick Sand'.

But neither the military camp picturised here is in Arizona nor the officers club a part of the camp. These were mere settings recreated at the Ramoji Film City (RFC) for its first venture in Hollywood. But what's amazing is the originality brought into the set. "I want to show to the world that even Hollywood films can be made here without compromising on quality or facilities", points out Ramoji Rao, producer of the film and RFC architect. The film which is being shot entirely at the RFC is a suspense thriller made in the backdrop of the US Army.

"It's a colossal task of recreating the American environs in an alien land but the facilities here are too good to expect any shortcomings", says the director, Sam Firstenberg, who has directed 20 films. According to Ramoji Rao, they can save 30 to 40 per cent of money when shot here.

The film has Michael Dudikoff of `American Ninja' and `Avenging Force' fame and the young and beautiful Brooke Theiss (Little Nikita fame) in the lead. They play as marine corps psychiatrist and marine NCO respectively. Dan Hedaya, who has worked with Clint Eastwood, Mel Gibson and John Travolta, plays the role of General Jeb in the film. Christopher Holmes, who has worked for films like `Rocky II' and `Cannon the Barbarian' edits the film.

By R. Ravikanth Reddy

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Section  : Southern States
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