Happy in Bollywood, John Abraham wants it to go global
The Hindu
New Delhi, July 20 (PTI): Even as Indian cinema and actors are making a dent abroad, actor John Abraham would rather stay put in Bollywood and have Indian cinema go global in terms of production value and craft.
"I don't want to sound like a marketing agent for 'Rang De Basanti' but I think it's the finest example of global piece of Indian cinema," says the star of films like 'Jism', 'Garam Masala', 'Taxi 9211' and 'Zinda'.
Meanwhile, Abraham is soaking up the rave reviews for 'Water' which has been received well in Canada, US, Australia and even in neighbouring Sri Lanka, where it is running to packed houses. "It's an Indian subject and it's a pity that the release of the film has been delayed in India. But it will be released here shortly." he says.
Another film that's expected to hit the theatres at the end of September or beginning of October is 'Kabul Express.' As a part of his homework , Abraham read Khalid Hosseni's 'Kite Runner' and saw 'Osama ' directed by Siddiq Barmak .
A comedy, where he plays a scribe on an assignment to Afghanistan after the fall of the Taliban regime, Abraham says that the film was an eye-opener in ways more than one.
This was the period when Karzai had just come to power. The Talibans were kept locked in Afghani backyards and foreign correspondents would pay up 200 dollars a piece to interview them, he says.
"America has lot of press and PR but' it's India that's doing a whole lot of development work," states the 34-year-old talking about the warmth exuded by Afghanis during the shoot.
On the remake mania gripping the film industry, he says "I think it's a great trend. It's raking in the moolah for the industry."
So does he regret not being a part of Dhoom II? "I can either be grateful that the prequel was offered to me or crib about the latter. I choose to be thankful."
Since Abraham has done action , comedy and a romantic lead , which one is he the most comfortable with ? "I think action requires the least bit of acting because that's really being yourself on screen. Comedy is a bit of work and I admit I made mistakes in 'Garam Masala'." he says modestly.
On his favourite director, Abraham says that he'd "give his right arm for Mahesh Bhatt. He is a legend."
His good looks make him a favourite of the fairer sex but what explains his popularity with kids? (He is the brand ambassador for a kid's channel because he was at the top spot on the poll conducted by them) "I think it's the streak of rebellion that they like in me. I think it's the biggest compliment to be loved by kids as they are honest about their feelings and are your loyal audience."
His chiselled body, the envy of many he reveals is a result of "good food, adequate sleep and workout."
