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Actress Shruthi Bekal , who appeared in the Hollywood film The Last Rodeo , has now forayed into Kannada cinema with the movie 69. “As a proud Kannadathi, I’m thrilled this opportunity came sooner than expected. My dream of being in Kannada cinema is now a
reality with 69, a unique and visually striking film directed by Ram. Shooting at the iconic Robert Bruno steel house was a highlight,” she says.

‘Breaking into Hollywood is a long and highly competitive process’

Offering insights into the demanding process of entering Hollywood, she says, “Most successful actors entering Hollywood have spent years honing their craft through formal education, acting schools, workshops, and on-stage experience. Even getting an audition is a big deal, as a single role may receive thousands of applications. If selected, you might have to go through multiple rounds, online or in-person, before landing a part. Once the casting director agrees, the production team also needs to approve. This applies even to the smallest of roles.” She further notes, “Ethnicity can still influence casting, often limiting actors to stereotypical roles. While this is gradually changing, barriers exist.”

‘Success in any film industry comes down to passion’

Reflecting on her experience in Kannada cinema, she says, “Kannada cinema operates differently, particularly in its global reach. Budgets are usually smaller than in Hollywood, impacting production size and often casting. However, the raw talent and collaborative spirit here have the potential to significantly grow the industry.” Shruthi believes there’s no magic formula for success in either Hollywood or Kannada cinema. “Ultimately, making it in film boils down to passion, training, networking, and resilience. While Hollywood offers a global stage with large-scale productions, Sandalwood provides opportunities grounded in local stories and cultural richness. Despite their differing scales, both industries demand the same core: unwavering dedication to the craft,” she says.

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