Manchu Manoj is an embodiment of high voltage energy both on screen as well as off screen. He did out and out commercial films like Bindaas, Potugadu along with classy films like Prayanam and Vedam thereby getting good feedback for any role he adorns. Now the electrifying star is all set to entertain the audience with Current Theega which is going to release tomorrow. On that occasion, here is an exclusive chitchat with the actor:
Hello Manoj..
Hi..
Tell us about your upcoming film Current Theega..
The film came out quite well. It is a perfect example of team effort and every technician gave his best to the film. I'm sure the film would be well received but the actual magnitude of the success should be decided by the audience. Current Theega is an out and out commercial film!
How was it working with Nageshwara Reddy- director of Current Theega?
I observed Nageshwara Reddy closely during the filming of Denikaina Ready and was thoroughly impressed. It was when I decided that I must work with him. It was a pleasure working with him for Current Theega. Now we have become very close and he is a kind of mentor for me too!
Tell us about your working experience with Rakul Preet Singh..
Rakul Preet is the best actress I’ve ever worked with. Can you believe she learnt Telugu and can speak eloquently now? Even during the filming, if any dialogue isn’t clear for her, she used to ask and get it clarified immediately. She was very friendly with everyone on the set and I'm sure that she has all the makings of a Superstar.
How was it working with Jagapathi Babu?
Jagapathi Babu is a main pillar for the film. After hearing the story, he readily agreed to do the film without even asking the remuneration details. With this film he will be called Jaggu Bhai by everybody!
How was it working with the popular star Sunny Leone?
Sunny Leone is a down to earth person. We initially wanted to cast a Telugu heroine for the role but people suggested Sunny Leone. We were shocked with the idea wondering how we can rope such a big star like her for a Telugu Film. However, Manchu Vishnu was impressed with the idea and he helped us in casting her for the film. My dad didn’t know about her porn star image earlier. He came to know in the end and when he saw the film he appreaciated us for our casting her in the film.
There has been a talk that Sunny Leone has been over paid for Current Theega despite her limited role?
Her presence would be fetching for the film. Though we paid her more it is worth it and Sunny factor would be crucial for the success of Current Theega.
Current Theega is a Tamil Remake of Varuthapadatha Valibar Sangam. What changes can we expect in the Telugu version?
Tamil nativity isn’t seen in this version. We did lot of changes in the script. There is ample scope for Telugu style comedy and sequences which are entertaining.
Your working experience with music director Atchu?
Atchu always gave me good music throughout my career. The songs have already fetched positive results and they look much better on screen. Sunny Leone song wasn’t there in the original version but we added it in the Telugu version for the masala element!
Current Theega is releasing on a big scale (in over 25 countries). Is Sunny Leone the main reason for it?
Our films should be running well and more often in overseas. We are doing the first step with Current Theega.
How is the response for Telugu Films in Gulf?
Many Telugu people are settled in Gulf. We have the confidence that they will watch it. We are releasing with subtitles. We spoke to the Telugu organizers and the shows would be focusing on Telugu Audience suiting their working schedules.
Did you gain weight on purpose for the film’s character?
(Laughs) Not at all! Two months before the film’s shooting, I met with an accident. Though we said it was small accident, it was a major one. I gained weight during the recovery. I thought it would suit for the village character I played in Current Theega.
You never had huge hits in your career. What do you think could be the reason?
As far as I know, I got the right recognition for my work. My star value and range did not falter and I climbed every hurdle with a new film. However, my biggest disappointment was Uu Kodathara Ulikki Padatara. Yet, Potugadu gave good results after it. I never liked safe journey as an artist or did a commercial film to target only one section of audience. No character was repeated till now. It is my biggest strength.
Will you be doing another multi starrer film soon?
With Vedam we started a trend. There is a change in the industry and people started looking for multistarrer scripts. But I need a good story to do it again.
Do you prefer to act in a negative role anytime in the near future?
I always wanted to do a villain role. I got such story now. The film details will be revealed soon.
Your charity work for Hudhud cyclone victims has been appreciated well. Your comments on it?
I don’t care about how much donation is given. I wanted to go and see there in person. I could motivate 500 students there to work in the relief activities such as clearing trees and getting basic amenities for the needy. I request everyone to see Vizag in person to know the real picture and the level of devastation happened there.
What happened to your upcoming film s/o Pedarayudu?
The script is ready but the title might be changed. The film is definitely on!
Any other upcoming films apart from s/o Pedarayudu?
I am going to do two films which would be with another banner. While one is hero role other is villain role.
Okay..thank you and wish you the best for Current Theega!
Thank you so much!