I’ll contaminate a Sooraj Barjatya film if I act in it: Emraan Hashmi

Emraan Hashmi began his acting career with bold movies such as Murder (2004) and Kalyug (2005), popularising the niche erotica genre in India. After completing more than a decade in the industry, the actor will now helm a patriotic film, which happens to be his maiden production venture under his home banner. Excerpts from a candid chat:

You had mentioned earlier that you wouldn’t mind being a part of a film directed by Sooraj Barjatya, but the script would need to be tweaked…

Can you imagine me in a Sooraj Barjatya film? I will contaminate the film (laughs). The sanskari (traditional) stand of the film will go for a toss if I am in it. I don’t think the audience wants to see me in such movies, and that is fine. Everyone has their own draw.

Erotica is an underexplored genre in India. Most adult comedies have also not been successful in the past. Do you think that will change with time?

Very few erotica films or adult comedies have done good business, be it in Hollywood or here. A film just can’t survive on erotica. An adult comedy can’t just survive on sleazy jokes. There has to be something more to it. If you see the American Pie series, it was deeply entrenched in American culture.

It was about growing up, which teens could relate to. It wasn’t just about the crass jokes. If you don’t have the [correct] underlying subtext or some relatable factor, it’s not going work. So, whether it is an erotic film in Hollywood or over here, a lot of them have gone wrong because they didn’t have any substance.

Trailer of adult comedy Mastizaade

Does the ‘serial kisser’ tag bore you now?

I don’t react to it much. People call me that, so be it.

What kind of films would you like to make?

My first project is a patriotic film inspired by real events. It is an aspirational story and also has other elements that will make for an interesting film. It’s not a nonsensical film.

Will you continue to work with the Bhatts or focus on your own production house now?

Yes, for sure. It doesn’t mean I won’t work with them just because I have my own production house now. It’s just a move, because, when you hear some scripts, you want to own them. Besides being an actor, I can also submit my inputs as a creative producer. I’d like to produce movies and stories that I find interesting.

How would you describe your equation with film-maker Mahesh Bhatt?

It has always been beyond films. Of course, if it wasn’t for him, I wouldn’t have been in the film business. He mentored me and has always been there for advice or support, even in my personal life. Even when my son fell ill or when my mother passed away, he was there. He is someone who will be there for you in the middle of the night if you need him. I don’t know many people in the industry who are like that.

People use the word ‘friendship’ very loosely in the industry. It’s only when the going is good [that they are around]; when the going gets tough, everyone disappears. There are few people who will stand by you in times of crisis, and I have seen that.