‘WILL BE HAPPY TO PLAY A HINDI PART IN BOLLYWOOD’
Feisty, fiery and a madcap — this pretty much sums up Tokyo’s character from Spanish series, Money Heist. Actor Ursula Corbero aka Tokyo, doesn’t believe in limiting herself and likes to take challenges. Ahead of the final season of the series, on Netflix, we spoke to Ursula about the show’s popularity, being a fashion icon and a social media sensation, and her love for India.
Tokyo’s character has so many shades to her. How has it been for you to play this part?
I’ve never done something like this before, so it was pretty challenging initially. But, it helped me feel braver, stronger, powerful and dangerous. The script was very well defined from the beginning for the way it lets her mess up to be wrong. What I really liked about Tokyo is how she finds strength from within, her guts, not from her physicality or muscle.
You’re also the narrator of the show... was that part exciting?
It was so funny when many people would tell me, ‘OMG, every time I listen to Tokyo’s voice, l feel sleepy or it gives me so much pleasure’. So, I talked to one of the main directors and we thought it’d be interesting to have a soothing and calm voice that’s in contrast with the hectic and dynamic pace of the show.
How does it feel to see the show become hugely popular in India?
I’ve never been to India and can’t wait to get there. Also, it fills me with joy to think that with Money Heist — thanks to its international impact — I have the opportunity to open new doors in new countries. Travelling to different places and perform new characters, is something I love. The best part about my profession is that it’s a constant learning process.
Anything about the Indian film industry that fascinates you?
I’ve seen many Bollywood films, and I know it is a very popular and big industry. But, somehow when people ask me for a name, my mind goes numb. Slumdog Millionaire (for its Indian connect) is the film I love.
What if, someday, you get to play a part in a Bollywood film, say a Spanish character?
If I have the time, I’d even play a character in Hindi. I’ll be more than happy if I have a professional teacher and the time to prepare and learn how I’ve to say things. I don’t want to limit myself. I love challenges.
You are no less than a fashion icon. Does that come naturally?
Fashion is very much connected to my profession. I love playing new characters when I act, and fashion gives you the same opportunities because depending on what you wear, you feel differently.
In 2018, you became the most followed Spanish celebrity on Instagram. Do such milestones give you a high?
You must not get influenced by social media, as it can be dangerous. While everything is measured by the number of followers you have, we’ve to bear in mind it doesn’t measure the talent you have.
She might not remember the names of Indian films, but if given a chance, Tokyo from Money Heist would love to be part of one
When I did my first film in the US, my English wasn’t good, but I like challenges, and I’d like to take them head on. URSULA CORBERO,
Spanish Actor