I WILL GIVE MY RIGHT ARM TO WORK WITH MAHESH BHATT: JOHN
Even after 17 years in the industry, the Jism actor is willing to walk that extra mile for his debut film mentor
Back in 2003, when John Abraham made his big screen debut with Jism – after appearing in a few music videos – everyone sat up and took notice of his good looks and intense avatar in the film written by Mahesh Bhatt. Thereafter, the actor has successfully created a diverse filmography by working with the biggest production houses in the industry in a varied range of films. And, gearing up to complete 17 years in Bollywood (in January next), the 46-yearold is only filled with gratitude.
He says: “I’m grateful to a lot of these filmmakers (whom I’ve worked with), and most of all to Mukesh and Mahesh Bhatt. After all, he [Mahesh] gave me my break in movies. Regardless of however successful I am, I remember where I’ve come from. Tomorrow, if Bhatt Saab asks me to do a film, I will give my right arm for him. I’m one of those persons.”
The Batla House star would love to work again with the filmmakers he has had a great rapport with. “I’m extremely fond of Sajid Nadiadwala (he worked with him in Housefull 2, 2012, and Dishoom, 2016). Karan (Johar, they worked in Dostana, 2008) is one of my closest friends. We may have not worked together in a while, but I have deep respect for him and he has been my strong support system. Karan was one of the few people who helped me during Parmanu: The Story of Pokhran (2018). And of course, I owe Dhoom, (2004) to Aditya Chopra,” he says.
Talking about Dostana, one reckons that John has not been part of light-hearted films of late and has created an image of a serious hero for himself. However, the actor wishes to do comedies, too. “I really want to do more comedies and make people laugh. People like you and me want to laugh and be happy. And what can make them happier than a funny film,” says John, adding, “I enjoyed doing Pagalpanti (his next with director Anees Bazmee, who has directed him in Welcome Back). Anees is one of my all time favourite directors. As a member of the audience, I’d love to watch his films.”
John feels the perception of a ‘serious actor’ emerged after he did films like Parmanu, Satyameva Jayate (2018) and Romeo Akbar Walter, which came in succession, completely unplanned. “I think there has been a phase wherein I did films like Parmanu, RAW, and Batla House which have been serious/ patriotic films. But it happened on its own, and not by design,” he says.
The actor hopes to break that image with Pagalpanti. “I’ve done Garam Masala (2005), Dostana, Desi Boyz (2011), Housefull 2, Welcome Back (2015) and now Pagalpanti. And, all my comedy films have been hits.” After wrapping up Pagalpanti, John has started work on a gangster drama (Mumbai Saga), which will be followed by an action flick (Attack). “So, there’s no consistency with my characters. I’m playing them all around, now.”