Director Vamsi Krishna Akella, who awaits the release of forthcoming Telugu comedy “Jakkanna”, says actor Sunil wanted to be treated as a technician on the sets of the film which releases in cinemas on Friday.

“Unlike other actors, he doesn’t want to be seen as a hero. Since he’s always willing to learn, he wanted to be treated as a technician. When we were shooting, he asked me to treat him as an assistant director and openly discuss everything,” Akella told IANS, adding that Sunil’s comic sense came very handy while working on the project.

“Everybody knows Sunil’s comic sense is always at its peak and is unmatchable. He understands comedy like no other actor can and my film stands testimony to that. While working on some of the comedy stretches of the film, his suggestions helped the overall output,” he said.

Much before Sunil became a leading hero; he was a popular comedian for a decade. Did Sunil’s comedian side interfere in the film’s making?

“He would never force his opinions on me. He’d share suggestions and if I find them reasonable, I’d incorporate the same in the film. We complemented each other in a very healthy way. It was a treat to work with him,” he said.

“Jakkanna”, which also stars Mannara Chopra, comes after Sunil’s unsuccessful projects such as “Mr. Pellikoduku”, “Bhimavaram Bullodu and “Krishnashtami”.

Admitting he worked under constant pressure, Akella revealed that Sunil and producer R. Sudharshan Reddy kept him motivated throughout.

“Even though I was under a lot of pressure, Sunil and my producer kept me motivated. They took some pressure off me and it helped me to complete the project on time,” he explained.

Unlike his directorial debut “Raksha”, Akella says “Jakkanna” is a commercial entertainer.

“I have always wanted to work on commercial projects. Since I started my career with Ram Gopal Varma, I ended up making a thriller for his company. With ‘Jakkanna’, I’ve realised my dream of working on a large-scale commercial project,” he added.