Akshay Oberoi had many incentives to feature in writer Ritesh Shah’s directorial debut, from his meaty role to the opportunity to team up with Neeraj Pandey who serves as the producer. The biggest incentive, however, was working with Manoj Bajpayee. Having recently wrapped up the thriller that went on floors in April, the actor says sharing screen space with Bajpayee was nothing short of a masterclass.

“I have always looked up to Manoj sir for the honesty and intensity he brings to every role. On set, I made it a point to keenly observe his process, the nuances he adds, and the effortless way in which he breathes life into his characters. More than anything, I valued the conversations we had off-camera — the kind of advice he shared with me about acting. Every word carried so much weight and wisdom,” says Oberoi.

One piece of advice has stayed with Oberoi, something that he plans to incorporate in his future projects. The actor explains, “The way Manoj sir crafts the backstory taught me that sometimes it’s what you don’t do on screen that leaves the strongest impression.”

The yet-untitled thriller also stars Saqib Saleem.