From Producer To Director: Seven Hills Satish

Passionate producer Seven Hills Satish, who made films like Battala Ramaswamy Biopic, Coffee with a Killer, and Solo Boy under the Seven Hills Productions banner, announced a new chapter in his film journey on the occasion of his birthday (October 23). Holding a press meet, he revealed that after successfully producing three films, he is now set to turn director.

Satish shared that he initially entered the industry with the dream of becoming a director but began his career as a producer to understand every aspect of filmmaking. Now, after gaining complete knowledge and experience in production, he feels ready to chase his original goal. He also announced that two more films are being made under his banner — one directed by editor Praveen Pudi, and another directed by Rajasekhar Gaddam, which is currently in the scripting stage.

Talking about another project, Satish mentioned that a film starring Narne Nithin, which was supposed to go on floors on Ugadi, was delayed unexpectedly. The story has since been reworked, and the film will begin production soon. Updates about both films will be shared next year, he said.

Satish added that, following his mentor V.V. Vinayak’s words at the Solo Boy event, he decided to pursue his long-cherished dream of direction starting with this birthday. With the experience gained from producing three movies, he plans to make his directorial debut next year. His first film as a director will be made under a friend’s production banner.

For the first time, Satish celebrated his birthday grandly in front of the media by cutting a cake and expressed happiness that his birthday coincides with Prabhas’s birthday.

Speaking at the press meet, Satish said:

“I never celebrated my birthday in front of the media before. My friends surprised me and insisted I should celebrate it. I’ve learned a lot while producing three films — every craft, every aspect of filmmaking. V.V. Vinayak garu once told me to start directing while I’m still young, and that’s what I’m doing now.

Narne Nithin’s dates are still available. If the story works out, I’ll go ahead with him. I want to make a content-oriented film, because a debut film is very important — it’s the one that shows the world what your real talent is.

Right now, audiences are not in the mood for message-based films; they come to theatres to laugh and be entertained. Movies like Balagam and Little Hearts have proven that. So, I’m planning a low-budget, high-content entertainer with a fresh and enjoyable script. No one can predict which film will become a hit — all we can do is give our best with honesty.”

He further added that his first production, Battala Ramaswamy Biopic, earned good profits, while his second film gave him valuable experience. All three of his films featured newcomers, and as a director too, he plans to continue working with new talent because it’s easier to manage schedules and dates.

“Even if I get an opportunity with a big hero, I’ll do it. Telugu audiences always support good content, even if it comes from another language. Genuine reviews will always encourage better filmmaking. Once I prove myself as a director, I’ll be ready to take on a pan-India project. Movies like Little Hearts have shown that strong content brings great recognition to directors. My aim is to achieve that kind of recognition. My favorite hero is Nani, and I dream of directing a film with him someday.”

Recounting his journey, Satish shared:

“When I first came to the industry, I worked as an assistant director on a few films. Later, I earned money through real estate before returning as a producer. I always knew the film industry had its ups and downs, but I entered it with a passion to deliver meaningful cinema to audiences.

I share close friendships with top directors like Venky Atluri, Sagar Chandra, Sampath Nandi, and Balagam Venu. I also worked with Suresh Productions and other production houses, where I collaborated with Nandini Reddy, Match Ravi, and Natural Star Nani in the direction department.

Selecting the right story is crucial — a film should truly satisfy the audience. I always take great care in choosing scripts. To make films, you don’t just need interest; you need a kind of madness — and I have that madness for cinema. That’s why I do only selected, meaningful films.”