Facing Career Challenges
Bobby Deol has candidly discussed the ups and downs of his career, acknowledging a period where work was scarce. He attributed his initial success to something
audiences saw in him, but admitted that poor decisions hindered his progress. To regain his footing, he took acting classes and focused on discipline and self-belief. He emphasized that every actor needs to maintain discipline and can't use excuses.
Embracing Reinvention
Deol, now 56, has actively embraced his changing appearance, including his grey hair and wrinkles, viewing them as badges of experience. He's moving away from the image he once maintained, opting for more diverse and complex roles, particularly on OTT platforms, that have given him a chance to break free from typecasting. He expressed how playing an antagonist was a chance to showcase his skills.
The 'Monkey' Transformation
In 'Monkey in a Cage', Deol portrayed Samar, an aging television star. He intentionally altered his physique to fit the role, choosing to appear flabby and unhealthy to embody a character struggling with a chaotic lifestyle. This role reflects his commitment to embracing characters that demand a raw, authentic portrayal, as opposed to maintaining a polished on-screen persona.
Anurag Kashyap Collaboration
His collaboration with Anurag Kashyap on 'Monkey in a Cage' signifies a major career shift. Deol shared that he was initially hesitant about playing an ordinary person, since he was used to playing larger-than-life characters. However, his eagerness to learn from Kashyap led him to embrace this project. The film served as an opportunity to showcase his growth as an actor.
Learning from the Past
Deol reflects on his career trajectory, attributing his initial success to a spark that resonated with the audience. He admitted that his career was impacted by his choices. Now, he's become more courageous and is prioritizing challenging roles. He has found that by being disciplined, he could channel more effort into his work without feeling pressured.
OTT's Impact
Deol acknowledges the significance of the web series and OTT platforms in his comeback. These platforms provided the freedom to escape typecasting. He has received appreciation for his antagonist roles, something he hadn't anticipated. His success with characters in series like 'Aashram' and films like 'Animal' showcased a different side of his acting.
A Newfound Freedom
Deol has embraced a stage in his career where he doesn’t worry about maintaining a particular image. His decision to embrace unique roles, and to work with directors like Anurag Kashyap, exemplifies his commitment to his art. He hopes to continue playing interesting roles and connect with his audience.
