‘I WOULDN’T GET INTO DIRECTION’
Actor-producer Akshay Kumar says he can barely tell his kids what to do, let alone his peers; adds that he enjoys being a producer
To be in such demand at my age is an absolute blessing and I’m not going to take a second of it for granted. Work is where my soul comes alive.
AKSHAY KUMAR ACTOR
Irrespective of the genre of his films, Akshay Kumar has always managed to win the audiences’ hearts with his engaging performances. Apart from his latest Diwali release Housefull 4, the actor has three films — Sooryavanshi, Laxmmi Bomb and Good Newwz — in the pipeline. Not one to repeat his choices, he says comedy will continue to remain his favourite genre. “The mass audience will always be drawn towards having a good time at the cinema more than having a a serious experience. Life is hard enough; everyone needs a break, and that’s why comedies will always be the most-needed genre, especially in this country,” says Akshay. In an interview, the actor talks about his favourite comedy film, the importance of spontaneity and more. Excerpts:
You are well known for your impeccable comic timing.
Has comedy always been easy for you?
Comedy is in my blood. Making people laugh is my most favourite hobby in the world. I think comedy is Nature’s greatest medicine. Having said that, making people laugh through your on screen performances is a completely different ball game compared to making them laugh in real life. The most important trick is timing for both — actors as well as the editors. The one thing that does need to change
is the respect for comedians, considering that people enjoy comedy. One may believe that comedians are lauded enough for their achievements, but they aren’t, even in this day and age.
Which is your all-time favourite comedy film in Hindi? Name an actor whose comic timing you’ve always admired.
It would have to be Padosan (1968). Mehmood sir is my idol. I’ve learned a lot watching him. He is my Indian (Charlie) Chaplin. From timing to facial expressions, he was a genius.
In this phase of your career, what are your biggest challenges?
Remembering what hairstyle I have that day, especially, when I’m shooting for three to four different movies in one month. Other than that, I love the fact that I am very busy. To be in such demand at my age is an absolute blessing and I’m not going to take a second of it for granted. Work is where my soul comes alive, where I get to be me, even when I’m playing someone else.
Do you believe that films should carry a message?
A message, be it social, historical or familial, has always been important in Hindi films. In fact, more so now, than ever. We live in a generation where voices are heard and not silenced. And I’m so glad that this time has come in my life where my kids can grow up when making a difference is considered cool, not thought of as madness. Being relevant is inspiring.
At this stage of your acting career, do you prepare for your characters or do you like to be spontaneous?
Even today, I like to be spontaneous. I like to be directed to the point where I’m free to explore and create the vision of the film to the best of my ability. There’s a difference between being ‘directed’ and being ‘forced’ to do something a certain way. I like to be prepared during the script reading sessions. That’s where the magic begins. After that, it’s about how I can do justice to my character. No matter what the genre is, a laugh will always be needed because humans can’t and shouldn’t have to survive without humour.
Would you ever like to get into direction?
Not particularly. I enjoy being a producer. I like the creative as well as the financial side. But I won’t be very comfortable if I have to tell someone what to do. I’m happy guiding anyone when it comes to action. Other than that, I like to be quiet and let people be. I barely like telling my kids what to do, let alone my peers.