After playing a negative role in Mirai, actor Manchu Manoj is making a comeback as a lead actor with David Reddy. A glimpse from the film was released on Wednesday evening, with Manoj playing the title role. His character is shown as intensely violent and fierce. The film is directed by debutant Hanuma Reddy.
Speaking on the occasion, Manoj revealed that David Reddy is a period drama set between 1897 and 1922. “The story takes place in the pre-Independence era,” he said.
In the film, David Reddy rides a bike named War Dog, while the stick he carries is called Death Note, which serves as one of his primary weapons. Elaborating on the character, Manoj said, “He is not just an enemy of the British, but also of Indians. David Reddy believes that freedom should not be begged for, but taken by force. When the British burn down villages, he emerges as a warrior who answers violence with violence.”
There have been rumours about Ram Charan and Silambarasan TR making guest appearances in the film, but Manoj firmly denied them. “We haven’t approached anyone so far,” he clarified. “There is scope for guest roles in the story, but no actor has been approached yet. We will share those details at the right time.”
Manoj turned emotional while addressing the huge fan turnout at the event. He said their support played a key role in his return as a lead actor. “When I wanted to do a strong film, a few people approached me and we even announced one project, but it didn’t materialise. That’s when Hanuma Reddy came to me with the David Reddy story, and I immediately agreed,” he recalled.
Reflecting on his career choices, Manoj added, “When I did supporting and villain roles, fans supported me immensely and put me on a pedestal. This film will be a complete feast for them. David Reddy shows what happens when one man stands up against brutal incidents and atrocities that never found a place in history.”
Director Hanuma Reddy Yakkanti described David Reddy as a large-scale film. “After completing the script, I was searching for the right actor. Around that time, I watched Bhairavam and contacted Manoj garu. I sent him a small poster, and he called me immediately after seeing it,” the director said.
Once Manoj came on board, the team finalised the technical crew. KGF fame Ravi Basrur has been roped in as the music director, Supreme Sundar as the action choreographer, and Acharya Venu as the cinematographer. “Everyone is extremely busy with big films, but after hearing the story of David Reddy, they happily agreed to be part of it,” revealed Hanuma Reddy.
He further added that David Reddy is a true pan-India film. “The story is fictional, but it is inspired by certain real incidents.” Actress Maria Ryaboshapka, known for Prince, plays the female lead.
