Veteran filmmaker Ram Gopal Varma calls Vishnu’s performance in Kannappa a ‘masterclass’ and says he would buy a ticket just to see him.
Vishnu Manchu Receives High Praise from Ram Gopal Varma
Actor-producer Vishnu Manchu took to social media to share a heartfelt message he received from filmmaker Ram Gopal Varma (RGV) after the latter watched Vishnu’s ambitious mythological film Kannappa. RGV, who is known for his candid views, showered praise on Vishnu’s portrayal of Thinnadu, saying it left him “breathless.”
“You didn’t just act, but you embodied a temple of faith like a high priest wielding a ferocity that left me breathless,” wrote RGV.
Ram Gopal Varma’s Powerful Message
The veteran director, known for his unconventional takes and open atheism, admitted he usually avoids devotional films but was moved by Kannappa. RGV recalled watching the 1976 version Bhakta Kannappa starring Krishnam Raju during college days—though only for its songs and performances.
However, this time, RGV found himself emotionally invested. In his message to Vishnu, he highlighted the powerful climax, where Thinnadu offers his eyes to the bleeding Shiva lingam, calling it a scene he would typically “detest” as an atheist—but praised Vishnu for making him “love it.”
“In the climax… is where you ascended to heights of heart-wrenching acting,” RGV wrote, adding that Vishnu’s “raw sincerity” was a masterclass in performance.
He concluded by saying that while many would watch the film for Prabhas, he personally would buy a ticket to watch Vishnu.
Vishnu Manchu Responds With Emotion
An overwhelmed Vishnu shared a screenshot of the message on social media, with some parts redacted, and expressed deep gratitude.
“Ramu Garu! You just made me cry. I have been holding my tears for a long time… This has been one of the most challenging times in my life,” Vishnu responded, hinting at personal and professional hardships.
About Kannappa
Directed by Mukesh Kumar Singh and produced by Mohan Babu, Kannappa is a mythological epic and Vishnu Manchu’s dream project. The film was released in theatres on June 27, and features a star-studded cast, including:
- Vishnu Manchu as Thinnadu
- Prabhas (cameo)
- Akshay Kumar
- Mohanlal
- Sarathkumar
- Kajal Aggarwal
- Preity Mukhundhan, Mohan Babu, Brahmanandam, Brahmaji, and more
The film narrates the story of Kannappa, the legendary devotee of Lord Shiva, and has already begun generating buzz for its performances, visuals, and emotional depth.
