Manoj Bajpayee discusses his character in ‘Last Man in Tower’, describing him as obsessed with being the good person in his family. The actor explains how his character’s sense of greatness affects his relationships and drives the film’s emotional conflict.
National Award-winning actor Manoj Bajpayee has opened up about his character in the recently released film Last Man in Tower, describing him as a man deeply obsessed with being seen as the good person in his family. The actor said this fixation with doing what he considers right eventually affects his relationships and forces him to confront uncomfortable truths about himself.
Bajpayee made the remarks while speaking with IANS alongside actress Divya Dutta and director Ben Rekhi during the promotions of the film in Mumbai’s Andheri West area. The actor discussed the emotional and psychological aspects of his character and explained how his sense of responsibility shapes the decisions he makes throughout the story.
According to Bajpayee, his character tends to view situations through a simple distinction between right and wrong. He said the character’s backstory, particularly the relationship with his son, helps audiences understand the reasons behind his behaviour and his strong desire to be regarded as the bigger or better person within his family.
The actor explained that the character has developed an “addiction” to being the good person in the family. He constantly tries to live up to the expectations he has created for himself. However, while attempting to support his brothers and maintain his image as a responsible family member, he ends up overlooking the needs of his immediate family.
Bajpayee said the character believes he has made significant sacrifices and done considerable favours for his brothers. However, when his son confronts him about his actions, the character’s perception of himself begins to collapse. This moment becomes an important part of his emotional journey as he starts questioning whether his idea of greatness has actually benefited those around him.
The actor further reflected on how people can sometimes become attached to their own sense of goodness. He suggested that individuals may become so convinced of their own positive qualities that they fail to recognise the difficulties their actions create for others. For his character, this realisation becomes an important part of understanding himself and his relationships.
Last Man in Tower is based on the eponymous novel by acclaimed author Aravind Adiga. Set against the rapidly changing landscape of Mumbai, the film revolves around an ageing apartment complex and its residents, who face a major decision when a wealthy developer offers them a lucrative deal to sell the building.
Bajpayee plays a retired schoolteacher and widower who lives in the ageing residential building. While most of the residents are tempted by the financial benefits of the redevelopment proposal, his character refuses to leave the apartment. His decision turns him into the lone obstacle standing in the way of the proposed luxury tower.
The conflict between financial opportunity, personal attachment and individual conviction forms the central premise of the film. As the redevelopment plan progresses, Bajpayee’s character finds himself increasingly isolated from the other residents, while his personal beliefs and relationships come under pressure.
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Through the character, Bajpayee explores themes of self-perception, family responsibility, sacrifice and the consequences of believing too strongly in one’s own sense of righteousness. The actor’s comments also highlight the film’s focus on the complexities of human behaviour and the process of self-realisation.
Last Man in Tower is currently playing in cinemas.
