Dev Patel’s directorial debut Monkey Man is inspired by Indian mythology. But the British actor has revealed he wasn’t always secure about his Indian heritage. On an episode of The Kelly Clarkson Show, Dev claimed that he was once “ashamed” of his roots. (Also Read – Monkey Man Box Office Collection: Dev Patel’s action film breaks ground, earns $10.1 million in just 3 days)
Dev’s confession
“There was a time when I was ashamed of the Indian part of my heritage. When you’re at school in Greater London, it’s not so good. I’m trying not to show that part, going into movies like Slumdog Millionaire and doing all that kind of stuff. I actually realized that in the first film I am going to direct, I am going to reduce the culture not by double, but by three times,” said Dev.
Dev on effects for Monkey Man
“I grew up watching Bollywood and Bruce Lee and Arnold Schwarzenegger and Jim Carrey and Jackie Chan. It’s all there (in Monkey Man). It’s the cocktail that makes me me,” said Dev.
He said that Monkey Man is inspired by one of the old stories of Lord Hanuman, where he forgets who he is and loses all his confidence. Rediscovering yourself with the help of other marginalized forces makes for a great arc for an action movie.
about monkey man
The action thriller follows the journey of a young man, played by Dev Patel, who sets out on a mission to seek justice for his mother’s death caused by corrupt politicians. However, his quest for vengeance takes an unexpected turn as he becomes a champion for the oppressed and powerless, and transforms into the titular Monkey Man.
Along with Dev, the film also stars Sikander Kher, Sharlto Copley, Shobhita Dhulipala, Makarand Deshpande, Ashwini Kalsekar and others. Dev Patel also serves as a producer on the film along with Hollywood filmmaker Jordan Peele. The film premiered at SXSW earlier this year to rave reviews.
Monkey Man released in theaters overseas on April 5, but its release in India has not been approved yet. It made $10.1 million in its opening weekend.
