HT Cafe

Ali is happy with the digital age as movies get a new lease of life now

- Kavita Awaasthi ■ kavita.awaasthi@htlive.com

Though Ali Fazal’s British biographic­al comedydram­a, Victoria And Abdul, released almost two years ago, the actor is thrilled that the film has found a new lease of life and newer audience, especially in India, after it dropped on a popular OTT platform this month. Starring Judi Dench and Fazal in lead parts, the film was a war portrayal of the Queen’s dwindling and how her man Friday Abdul is able to bring her back to life.

A source says, “Ali is amazed by the fan mails he has been receiving for the film. Ali has always felt connected with his character and believes working with Dench changed him. The duo have remained in touch ever since and he even met her while he was in London recently on her birthday.”

Talking about the film, Ali says, “There are films that are life changing and this movie will always remain one of the most special experience­s of my life. The fact that the Indian audience has discovered the film is fantastic because we received great love internatio­nally but in India, the film didn’t see much fame. I wake up every day to texts from people from different places telling me what they thought of my performanc­e. I can’t believe it’s been two years already. I am glad that OTT platforms are helping actors find newer audiences. Gone are the days when a film’s success was gauged by its box office success and an actor’s popularity was measured by the opening day figures of his films. There’s a greater value for audience’s appreciati­on now, and I am happy that my film is once again resonating with people.”

 ?? PHOTO: RAKESH SIDANA ??
PHOTO: RAKESH SIDANA

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