Dev Patel, known for his roles in films like “Slumdog Millionaire,” has made his feature directing debut with the action-packed film “Monkey Man.” In a recent interview, Patel revealed that he was not getting offered roles with any “ass kickery” or coolness ten years ago, prompting him to create a film where he could be the action hero.
In “Monkey Man,” Patel plays Kid, a young man seeking revenge for his mother’s brutalization by taking on corrupt politicians and an evil guru in a fictional Indian city. Inspired by the tales of the Hindu god Hanuman, Kid fights against those in power who abuse lower castes. The film, released on Friday, is Patel’s homage to the action genre and his attempt to tell a politically charged story with a hero who looks like him.
Patel is not the only actor making a leap into action roles. Bob Odenkirk, David Harbour, Jake Gyllenhaal, and Ryan Gosling are among the actors who have recently taken on action-packed roles, showcasing a shift in the genre. With the success of films like “John Wick” and “Nobody,” actors who were previously known for dramatic or comedic roles are now embracing the action genre.
Despite the challenges of filming intense action sequences, Patel dedicated himself to the role, undergoing physical training and performing his own stunts. He described the experience as some of the hardest performing he’s ever had to do, even sustaining injuries during filming. However, Patel’s commitment to the project paid off, as he delivered a powerful performance in “Monkey Man.”
While Patel enjoyed the experience of making “Monkey Man,” he admitted that it took a toll on him physically and emotionally. He emphasized that the film was a specific story he wanted to tell and not necessarily a stepping stone to more action roles. Patel poured his heart and soul into the project, pushing himself to the limit to bring Kid’s story to life on the big screen.
