Manish Paul
He is funny, energetic and to the point. He says, his mentors have advised him to keep a low profile. Mera bhi time aageya, Paul says while talking about his debut film Mickey Virus. This comedy thriller was right up his sleeve with a role that could establish him in Bollywood. He has also signed up for the sequel to Tere Bin laden, he tells Deebashree Mohanty
‘I want to make my own identity’
How excited are you about your maiden film Mickey VirusIJ
It is a complete jhakaas film, bole toh ek dum funwala! But don’t mistake it for a no-brainer comedy. Mickey Virus is a comedy thriller that vouches to keep you engaged all the time. One needs to watch it to understand the complex character of the protagonist. He is thoda sweet and very hatke, a gizmo freak who understands computer viruses like nobody else. But at the end of the day, he is a vela person who gets away with anything. Saurabh Verma is the coolest director I have worked with. He makes everything so simple and fun.
Why is your character a complex oneIJ
Mickey is a simple guy in complex circumstances. He finds his love interest in a subzi mandi and life goes on smoothly for him till a certain case turns everything topsy turvy. The way he reacts to certain issues and his way out of the mess are quirky and definitely not normal. The audience will find a connect with this intelligent character.
Were you nervous about comparisons with another TV star who made it big in B-wood, AyushmanKhuranaIJ
I am not bothered about comparisons. I am still very new in the system. At least give me sometime to settle down then I can deal with problems associated with stardom. Abhi star bana nahin ki... On a serious note, Ayushman is like a brother. We have known each other for a long time and mean well for each other. He is a talented actor way better than I am. I don’t think there can be any comparison between us.
How was it working with Elli Avram and Varun BadolaIJ
I think this is the only film where the entire star cast was known to each other. Varun and I are pals and I have known Elli for a few years now. They are great actors and have their own style. Varun, especially is someone to watch out for. He is absolutely stunning as a Delhi wala cop. At one time, I was insecure that he will run away with the accolades for this film.
What is KJo’s role in getting you this filmIJ
I keep having a lot of masti with him on the sets of Jhalak Dikhlaaja. So much so that, one day, he called to ask me whether I was serious about acting in a film. He knew Saurabh Verma was looking for a fresh face and he referred me to him. I will be ever grateful to Karan sir. He is my mentor and mai baap.
Tell us about your upcoming film...
I have signed up for the sequel of Tere Bin laden, again a comedy entertainer full of political satire. It is a new kind of an experience for me and I can’t wait to begin shooting for this film.
Is there something that you look forward to in BollywoodIJ
Katrnia Kaif is my dream heroine. I only wish I get to share some screen space with her. I won’t mind doing an item number just for a Katrina film but she has to boogie woogie with me (winks).