Chennai, Feb 19 (IANS): Actor Sampoornesh Babu says he couldn't be at his usual best in forthcoming Telugu crime-comedy "Bandipotu", adding that director Mohan Krishna Indraganti wanted him to tone down his acting style.

"He didn't want me to do what I've been doing in the last few films. He wanted me to be subtle and requested me to tone down my style of acting. Initially, I wasn't sure how this change in acting will look on screen but when I watched the final product, I was happy," Sampoornesh told IANS.

"I've explored a new side to me. I always thought I was more suitable for full of life style of acting, but thanks to director Mohan, I believe I can be subtle too now," he said.

In "Bandipotu", which releases in cinemas Friday, Sampoornesh plays hero Naresh's partner-in-crime.

"It was wonderful working with Naresh. He's a great comedian and I got to learn so much from him. He also taught me the art of subtle acting. It was a challenge to underplay but I think my performance has come out well," he added.

Sampoornesh is eagerly awaiting the audience's response to his role.

The film also features Eesha, Rao Ramesh, Tanikella Bharani and Posani Krishna Murali in important roles.