More than histrionics, Sunil Shetty is known for flexing his muscles. He is the macho man who strode the screen in the recent Dhadkan. Despite being handpicked by the likes of Gulzar for his Hu Tu Tu and working in "mega star movies", Shetty has not come up with a solo hit film so far. Though Dhadkan has done only average business, Shetty feels his role was good. Speaking to Sulekha Nair, the actor reveals that he wears his emotions on his sleeve:Were you optimistic about Dhadkan?
Yes. It was released on my birthday (smiles). Even otherwise, it is a very special film for me. It had shaped up well and without sounding arrogant, I feel I have done really well for myself. Touchwood, people have loved the film and my performance. It is a love triangle that has been handled with emotion, passion and sincerity. Even the music is nice.Are you satisfied with the way your career has shaped up?
So far so good, I can't complain. I think my career is just about starting now. I have managed some good films of late.
You had no heroine opposite you in two of your recent releases, Jungle and Refugee?
My character in Jungle was that of a commando-one aim, one mission. A heroine doesn't fit into that character. In Refugee, I am in love with Kareena. So what if it is unrequited love?
Were you worried about playing a Pakistani in Refugee?
I don't believe in dividing Hindus and Muslims and all that crap. I am someone who believes that if I could work as an ambassador for my country and bring people together, it would be great. Refugee is about human relations, not about India, Pakistan and Bangladesh. It is a positive character.
You got a lot of flak for Krodh. The film got flak. It doesn't matter. It was a small town film. I am an actor and I did my bit. The audience appreciated that character. Critics have made it their job to criticise, whereas I believe that a critic's job is to analyse the film, mark its plus and minus points with fairness. But the job is not being done that way.It is felt that there is no need for you to do these kind of films any more!I am someone who believes in relationships, friendships and people who have stood by me. Come what may, I do any kind of work for them. I am not a manipulative guy. I could have done all that after Mohra itself, saying no to all the films and returning the signing amounts. But I did as many as 20 films with new directors. I work on an emotional note, and for me, those who have stood by through thick and thin mean a lot.
Tell us a little about D Rama Naidu's Aaghaz.It is a routine subject, but has been treated well. It is the story of a sall-town guy who comes to the city. He tries to help people, but when he needs help, no one comes to his aid. He is even beaten up, but unlike other films that I have done, he does not go about hitting the streets! Instead, he does the reverse!Aaghaz is a remake of a Tamil film. Do re-makes really work?
Every film of D Rama Naidu's has worked. Hum Aapke Dil Mein Rehte Hain was a remake and did decently well. Mr Naidu is a man with a golden touch and that is what I need right now!
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