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Lucky once more?
Abhay Deol may not fit in a typical hero’s role — dancing around trees, changing ten costumes in a single song. He talks to Princy Jain about his new film Dev D.
Oye Lucky! Lucky Oye! actor Abhay Deol may not fit in a typical hero’s role — dancing around trees, changing ten costumes in a single song — but he has in him the quality to make the audience wait for his films. Here’s Abhay straight from New York.
Is it a conscious effort to stay away from typical big-budget, big-banner and big director films?
I was never competitive. I do films with the most interesting script. I’m here to make the movies I believe in — and I’m always hopeful that the producer will market and release it well, and the audience will go see it.
Dev D has been innovative in their promotional campaign — from the Lust Line to tattoos. How would you have promoted the film?
I wouldn’t have shown much of the tripping/taking drugs portion. I would keep the Chanda character more of a mystery. I would play upon the innocence of the Dev and Paro track, let that be the image the audience has when they enter the theatre. Shock the audience, let them expect the unexpected.
How was it being directed by Anurag Kashyap, working with Kalki and Mahi?
Anurag was like a child on the set. Mahi is buzzing with talent. Kalki is French, born and raised in India. I think even she doesn’t know where she belongs. She loves India and calls it her home but because of the colour of her skin she will always be a foreigner. This feeling of ‘displacement’ is what works in her favour.
What is your next project?
A film titled, Junction — that I will be producing.
Dev D is about love and lust... what is your most memorable experience in matters of love?
I once beat up my girlfriends ‘ex’ in front of her.
After your bar tending sessions is there anything new to learn?
Lots! Anything from metal work, carpentry, to painting or making sculptures.
