From the laptop to the theatre: This trio traces a reverse journey
While a lot of Bollywood actors have warmed up to the digital platform and are doing web shows, the reverse is also true — that the web can catapult one into the movies. A few such web stars have made their debut and others are yet to make a splash. In either case, it’s a double treat for new-age viewers.
Here’s a look at the journey of Mithila Parkar, Sumeet Vyas, and Naveen Kasturia, who have gone from the web to the silver screen.
THE SWITCH
“It’ll be interesting to see if the audience would want to see me on the big screen, because in terms of my web series, it’s all easily accessible. I hope that their love for me is enough that they go and watch me on the big screen,” says Mithila, who has acted in shows such as Little Things and Girl in the City, and is now making her big debut with the Irfan-starrer Karwan.
Sumeet and Naveen, popular faces on the web, made an impression with their movies this year. Sumeet, who did smaller roles in films earlier, had his big Bollywood break with the hit Veere Di Wedding. “This is the first time I’ve played the leading man, opposite a superstar, in a quintessential big-budget Bollywood film. That’s quite a change. Suddenly, a lot of people and filmmakers are interested in me,” says Sumeet.
Naveen did a few films before making a name online. He bagged his big film role in the critically acclaimed Naseeruddin Shah-starrer Hope Aur Hum. “It’s always a delight to see yourself on the big screen,” says Naveen.
ADDED ADVANTAGE
These webs stars score over rank newcomers in cinema, as they’re well versed with their craft and enjoy a certain fan base. “I think the connection that people have with me as an artist is the biggest advantage. When people were appreciative of my work in Permanent Roommates and Tripling, it was reassuring. It really helps to have a fan base. That’s why they cast me,” says Sumeet.
Mithila adds, “Bollywood has happened organically and I’m excited about it. The love that I received is quite humbling. There’s a certain amount of luck that’s already coming my way because of my work on the Internet.”
CHARM OF CINEMA
While the web offers freedom of expression, easy accessibility and variety, the big screen has a different charm.
“The viewing experience in theatres is obviously better than watching it on the laptop or mobile,” says Naveen. “The success of a film can give you a lot more credibility and more work; the success of a web show may or may not result in that,” says Naveen.