Altaf Manaf was barely 16 when he auditioned for Anil Radhakrishna Menon’s 2015 fantasy adventure film Lord Livingstone 7000 Kandi, Even though it was a few moments on screen, Altaf was filled with a sense of accomplishment. He made it through auditions, on the big screen, without any experience in acting or guiding anyone.
His second film followed the following year, the Sunny Wayne-starrer of Midhun Manuel Thomas. N Maria Kalipipilanu. This Around time, his role was lengthy and noticeable. He played Sharath, the boy-next-door who helps protagonist Ann Maria find a hitman to seek revenge against her physical training teacher. “Although I didn’t have any experience on set or among established actors, I didn’t feel out of place or nervous,” says Althuff.
Altaf Manaf still from Sarah’s
, photo credit: special arrangement
Altaf says, while facing the camera, acting came naturally to him. “But this is not the case during acting camps. Most movies have acting camps that are meant to help each actor get into the character and are a great platform to complete the role. But I was never able to perform in acting camp. I am a bundle of nerves in an acting camp,” laughs Altaf.
Altaf has acted in 19 films in a career spanning seven years. “I have always had a passion for cinema. I dreamed of being a part of films since childhood. My family has also been supportive. I try to make my own connections in the industry and today, I am happy with the way my career has turned out,” says Althaf, who hails from Thrissur.
Altaf has acted Aadhya Rathri, Sarah’s, kunzeldho, pappan, Porinju Mariam Jose, to mention a few. He also did a small role in Visible II,”It was an unforgettable experience” as the first time he met Laleton (Mohanlal). “I only saw him on screen and sharing space with him in a film was a big deal for me. He has no air of a superstar. I was in awe of him, but managed to walk up to him and introduce myself. I was amazed at how friendly and encouraging he was,” Altaf says.
Altaf Manaf still from Kappu
, photo credit: special arrangement
Altaf will be seen in upcoming films Kappu Starring Basil Joseph, Guru Somasundaram and Jude Anthony. he is also a part of Kunjamini’s Hospital Starring Indrajit, Nyala Usha, Prakash Raj and Baburaj. Currently, Althuff is working on a film directed by Jackson Antony, a wypen-based comedic, feel-good film.
To reach here is a big achievement in itself for me. I just want to be a part of films,” says Altaf, who also plans to learn other aspects of film, such as cinematography and editing.