Speaking at the post-release presser of The Girlfriend on Friday, the team behind the movie highlighted how women, in particular, are totally loving the movie.
Producer Allu Aravind is content that the media has given excellent ratings to the movie, something he had predicted before the movie's release. "From the morning and matinee shows onwards, the collections have been increasing steadily," he said, adding that women turning emotional on watching the movie is rewarding in itself. He appreciated Rahul Ravindran for "bringing out the pain and emotions" women go through due to repression. He lauded lead performances, saying they are "outstanding".
Director Rahul Ravindran said that during the making of The Girlfriend, Rashmika used to say, "this film is like a big hug from her to all women." He recalled that he would tell her that it was his hug to all men – to encourage them to become better boyfriends and better husbands. He mentioned that Rashmika got emotional seeing the positive reception. Rahul stated that seeing such responses made him feel so fulfilled that he wouldn’t mind even if he never made another film. Regarding the film's reception, he expressed that the emotions he wanted to convey were perfectly understood by the media, and their reviews reflected exactly what he intended.
Actor Dheekshith Shetty said that the audience as well as the media has been appreciative of his acting in the romantic drama. He is overwhelmed by the acclaim, something that exceeded his expectations. "The response has been heartwarming," he further said, adding that people are finding the movie relatable.
Music Director Hesham Abdul Wahab thanked the entire team for their support. Editor Chota K. Prasad said that collections at the ticket registers were on the rise with each passing show. Costume Designer Shravya Varma thanked the director and producers of the movie for giving her the "opportunity to be part of such a beautiful film.”
Producer Dheeraj Mogilineni said that many audience members were in tears after Thursday's premiere shows. "I don’t think I can make another film like this again in my life. Even my family members were moved to tears. As a producer, this success gives me immense satisfaction," he said. The producer further described The Girlfriend as Rahul's film. Producer Vidya Koppineedi commented that the response from audiences had been heartwarming.
Actress Rashmika Mandanna said that she was amazed by how deeply Rahul understood women’s emotions. Thanking Rahul for giving her the opportunity to essay Bhooma, the star heroine described Dheekshith as an exceptional actor. She further said that Hesham Abdul Wahab's music raised the level of the movie.
