I always aspired to be an actor, never aimed at stardom

After playing a settled role in his earlier outing ‘Shourya’, Manchu Manoj will be seen as a gangster in his forthcoming film ‘Attack’, directed by Ram Gopal Varma. Describing about his role, Manoj says, “Prakash Raj, a gangster has three sons and I’m one of them, apart from Jagapathi Babu and Vadde Naveen. The film showcases how and why the attacks are taking place between our family and rivals.

While I stay away from all the clashes initially, I’ll be compelled to turn a gangster. I have flaunted different style sporting beard and rugged looks for the first time. It is an intense character (without any comic shades) and most of the emotions are conveyed through my eyes. I always wanted to show variations in my role and prove to be a good actor and not aim for stardom. I’m happy to get such roles.”

Manoj says the treatment for the upcoming action drama is different from RGV’s earlier films. “All the gangster-based films have been inspired from ‘God Father’, but the treatment is completely different. The film is based on gangster fights in Dhoolpet and other areas. All the scenes are based on real life incidents.”

The actor holds RGV in high esteem. Tipping him as a great technician, Manoj shares, “The name RGV itself means unique, so there’s always curiosity as to what and how does he treats every film differently. He’s a great technician and an excellent planner. He’s always focused and knows what exactly he wants.”

‘Attack’, which has been in the making since a long time, is finally releasing on April 1. Ask Manoj whether the delay in the film’s release hampers the box office prospects, he replies, “The film was done before my marriage. But when I came back after my holiday, he said that he still wants to shoot a few scenes additionally. So that just goes to show his commitment.

So I have no regrets for the delay. I believe in the content – if it’s good the film does well anytime.” Did his wife see the film? “Yes, she saw and liked my characterization. She said that I look different and did well,” he quips.