The smart and suave actor, who shot to fame on TV with Saraswatichandra and Maha Kumbh, tells JYOTHI VENKATESH by e-mail that Aksar 2 is a content driven film and not a sleazy erotica.
What is Aksar 2 all about?
Aksar 2 is a suspense thriller. It involves a very intense mind game revolving few characters who are part of a common plot. Some play while some get played. I can’t divulge in more details as that will take away the mystery around the film.
What is your role in Aksar 2?
I play an investment banker who sees an opportunity and wants to take charge and play the game only to later realize that is not what meets the eye, but something deeper and complicated. Also my character has a shade of grey which is exciting because it is a first time for me.
Is your film erotic or sleazy by way of its content?
It is a content driven film. Do not judge the book by the cover, as the clip you see in the promos is a part of a sensuous song, and calling it an erotica would be the easiest route for us to market the film, but that’s not what it is, as it has a good story that’ll keep you hooked. Calling it an erotica would get us wrong audiences who would be disappointed and keep the right audiences who like content driven stories several miles away.
How was it working with your co-stars like Zarine Khan?
As an actor, she is spontaneous. She needed less rehearsals and more takes. Also her command over Hindi language is impeccable. As a person she is an open book and she doesn’t hold herself back but speaks her mind. What’s there inside is on the outside.
What is the reason you do not pursue your film career aggressively?
When I started out, I didn’t get the roles that I’d like to do in films. Around that time TV happened & I did some really satisfying work. It’s been a good 6 years in Television. I got the opportunity to work with some big production houses, do roles that went on to become very popular. Then this movie came along and it felt right and I could relate to the script.
Has your TV image hindered your career in films?
I most definitely know that my career in films is because of my work in television, I got my popularity through few noteworthy shows. So television has given me a lot I’ve got to thank for.
How is Ananth Mahadevan as a director?
He is excellent and a very patient director and can put across his vision clearly as to what he wants & how he wants it. He’s guided me all along. I come from television background & we have a very contrasting working pattern. When you’re doing a TV show, the actor does everything, how he delivers his lines, how his character reacts… the actor prepares & improvises himself. It is not the same when you’re doing a film. He made the entire transition a smooth flow. It was great working with him.
How many TV serials have you been a part of till date? Name your best 5 TV serials.
I’ve been a part of almost 13-14 TV shows. If I have to pick favorites, they would be Saraswatichandra, Mahakumbh, Lucky, Baa Bahu Baby and Suryaputra Karn.
What kind of roles do you seek in films?
There is not any one particular role that I’m seeking. Since the time I started out, I’ve been hungry for good work. I want to be able to pull off anything that comes on my plate. I have done experiments in the past. For an actor, it is a different high altogether to try out different roles across variety of genres.
To what extent are you game for going nude on screen, if the script demands you?
No. I don’t think I’m comfortable to bare it all.
Have you decided to stop doing TV serials?
I have only decided to not stop working and keep going as long as I have the will to. I have been lucky to get male oriented shows on television with meaty roles. I always experiment, I don’t wear blinds. I’m open to things that excite me. If a good offer comes along on TV, I’ll do it.
How open are you to do a web series?
Never say never. Like I said, it has to be high on content and if I fit best in the role then why not?
You have acted in both films and TV. In what way are the two media different from one another from your point of view as an actor?
Television now is definitely going big on production and sets and all of that but the major difference that exists is that in Television, scripts are given on the same day, and every day you have to cut 12-18 minutes of viewing time. Scripts can change and undergo drastic changes to keep up with TRPs, whereas in films, you’re given a complete script with the screenplay way ahead of time and you also have workshops for the character before you begin shooting. Television shows are slowly moving towards this change introducing workshops.
Which are directors with whom you want to work?
I’d love to work with directors like Raj Kumar Hirani & also Karan Johar
Do you think you have not been given your proper due by the industry?
My journey so far has been amazing with its share of ups and downs. I’ve got so much and that’s what has kept me going even now. I’m very happy the way things are. I’m concentrating more on my work and looking for better opportunities to explore. Talking about my due, I think that generally takes time. I’ve got more love than I ever asked for.
What next, after Aksar 2?
I haven’t signed anything as yet.but there are 2-3 things on my plate. Only time will tell.
