Versatility and Paresh Rawal are synonymous. Be it the bad guy or the funny one or a serious father, Rawal has excelled in all his roles. He teams up with one of his favourite directors, Priyadarshan, once again in. He plays a villager who sells lottery tickets in the film.
An interview with Paresh Rawal.
What is so special about the Priyan-Paresh equation?
I like his choice of story, the way he motivates his actors much like Mahesh Bhatt. I have shared a great rapport with him since my first film with him. I like the way he sketches his characters.
Priyan says the film is close to reality. Your comments.
It is. It is about how greedy people can be and the extent to which people can go for money. It also deals with the fallacy that all villagers are innocent. It also has thriller elements. In a way, it is a comedy thriller. At the same time it talks of families, values and so on. It gives a message without being preachy.
You have a new look in the film…
Yes, it is apt with the character. Being a villager you have to look untidy, almost on the edge kind of thing.
How was it working with such an ensemble cast — Om Puri, Riteish Deshmukh, Rajpal Yadav and others?
How was it working with such an ensemble cast — Om Puri, Riteish Deshmukh, Rajpal Yadav and others?
It was great. This is my first full-length film with Om
ji
who is such a senior actor. Rajpal is very talented and the best part about Riteish is that he is extremely down to earth. He is not at all political despite coming from a political family. And credit goes to his parents for that. He is very well-groomed and well-read. Though Riteish fits into the hero’s slot, he can mould himself according to the character.
You have done serious, negative and comedy roles. Which do you enjoy the most?
If it’s challenging then it is enjoyable. If it is some run-off-the mill stuff then my heart is not in it.
What’s coming up next?
Lots — 36 China Town, Yun Hota To Kya Hota with Naseer saab (Naseeruddin Shah). It was a fascinating experience to work with him. I have worked with him several times in films and on stage and here I was getting him as a director, someone who is rated as one of the finest actors of all-time.