Telugu cinema is taking impressive leaps in the global market, with Indian movies now being released across the world in an array of languages. What used to be a rare phenomenon is now becoming very common, as big movies reach audiences in nations everywhere. Japan, especially, has become increasingly interested in South Indian movies and has a special fondness for Telugu films.
One such movie causing waves in Japan is Manam. Starring the iconic Akkineni family, the movie is close to the hearts of Telugu fans. Manam also happened to be the final on-screen outing of the great Akkineni Nageswara Rao and hence became a bigger and emotional movie. The film was a huge success in Telugu, and Nagarjuna, out of respect for the family involvement, decided not to sell its remake rights.
Manam has finally been released in Japan, with the Japanese-dubbed version being released in theaters on August 8 after nearly a decade. The movie’s emotional multi-generational story about love, loss, and family should resonate with the Japanese audience. The depth of feeling and its universal appeal fit well within the context of the Japanese film market.
Directed by Vikram Kumar, Manam has a fabulous star cast, including Akkineni Nageswara Rao, Nagarjuna, Naga Chaitanya, Samantha, Shreya, and Akhil in guest appearances. The movie’s music, by Anup Rubens, was also recognized for its ability to evoke emotion.