Comedian-turned-heroes take a patchy road

After hit film ‘Geetanjali,’ popular comedian-turned-hero Srinivas Reddy is retuning with ‘Anando Brahma’ and would be testing waters once again with his much-hyped horror comedy. Although, pretty actress Tapsee plays an author-backed role, Srinivas Reddy is essaying a key role. “It is basically a character-driven film and Srinivas Reddy’s performance will be another USP,’ says a source.

Just recently, another young comedian Sapthagiri tasted success with ‘Sapthagiri Express’ and another film with him as hero has been launched by producer Nattikumar. “Our untitled film is a laugh-riot and Sapthagiri fits the bill. Even as a star comedian his dialogues and presence were drawing whistles in the theatre. It is natural transition for a comedian to turn hero since his popularity is soaring by the day,’ he adds.

Earlier, it was comedian Ali who became a popular hero with ‘Yamaleela’ and ‘Ghatotkachudu’ but returned to play comedian once again. “Ali was very smart, once he realised that offers as hero were depleting, he returned to become the most-sought-after comedian and extended his career for more than 2 decades,’ says director Sana Yaadi Reddy who made ‘Pittala Dora’.

However, another top comedian-turned-hero Sunil with hits like ‘Andala Ramudu’ and ‘Poolarangadu’ has hit a lean patch these days. “Don’t compare Sunil with others. He has put in a lot of hard work to become a hero and shaped up his body, unlike his peers. Financially, he is drawing Rs 2.5 crore per film, as comedian he could draw Rs 1 or 1.5 lakh per day, so it is better for him to sail as a hero,” adds director Veerabhadram.