Monday 21 October 2013

Won't get Rs100 crore film right now: Barun Sobti

After winning over millions of hearts through his TV show Iss Pyaar Ko Kya Naam Doon (IPKKND), Barun Sobti is now switching gears. With his debut film Main Aur Mr Riight (MAMR) ready to release, this unassuming actor talks about his strengths and weaknesses. He also throws light on the acceptance of TV actors in the film industry.


What challenges did you face while shooting for your debut film?
The only challenge was to keep awake as at that time I was simultaneously shooting for my show IPKKND and the film. The decision of working on both mediums at one point got bad. The transition from TV to films wasn’t overwhelming since an actor’s ultimate job is to act. I think people take acting way too seriously. In MAMR, I play a wannabe model who worships Salman Khan. It was funny as I look nothing like him and I had to imitate him.

The prerequisite for an actor is good looks, acting and dancing abilities. But you are a self-confessed bad dancer... 
The criterion of dancing was true in the 1990s. Today, dancing is not an important element in films being made in India or the ones I want to be a part of. Personally, I know I'm not a good dancer. I’m not keen on doing films that require me to dance much anyway.

What kind of films are you looking at? 
I know I won’t be offered Rs100 crore films right now or a song with 500 dancers. I’ve heard intriguing projects. People approach you for the work they have seen you do. I don’t think people see me as a lover boy dancing around, so I haven’t received a role of that kind. I'm going to do roles that appeal to me.

What’s your take on the surge of TV actors into films?
I think people are coming-of-age now. Maybe the differentiation between film and TV stars is fading away. While you can be trained and groomed to be a better actor, seasoning happens only to TV actors. TV actors shoot every day and that makes a difference to the project. They are hard-working but that’s not taking anything away from the film actors.

Do you see yourself doing TV again in the future?
Maybe. I left IPKKND as shooting a daily was consuming. Now I've been approached by producers for weeklies, so let’s see.

MAMR was ready to release for the longest time. The long wait must have been frustrating.
Filmmaking is a lengthy process. We were being ambitious to think we would be able to release early this year, but now we are coming soon. Post-production and other elements take time. These processes are not in our control.

Quick Five

A question you have been asked numerous times?
People still ask me about IPKKND a lot. I owe a lot to the show, so I don't have any problems talking about it.

Any unbelievable scene that you have done?
I had to cry in a scene in IPKKND which I thought would be tough but it turned out well.

A show you like on TV currently?
Big Boss is doing great. People go mad when it's on air.

An actor you feel is popular?
Karan Singh Grover is very good and popular too.

A habit that you want to give up?
I am pretty happy with myself. I am not saying I am flawless but I am content with the way I am.

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