On The Mark

FRESH AFTER THE SUCCESS OF MARK MUBARAKAN, ARJUN KAPOOR TAKES STOCK OF HIS CAREER.

- Raghuvendra Singh

Arjun Kapoor is humming a tune. This year has been rewarding to say the least. Half Girlfriend posted good numbers and Mubarakan followed up with a winning streak too. Success is ringing in his ears like sweet music. And whether he’s working out, walking the red carpet, chilling at home or taking a breather in the vanity van, Arjun is in humming mode. Perhaps, he’s in a happy phase, or maybe he’s just honing a future skill set. This young actor is slowly and steadily carving a niche for himself. Sure there are a few off-key notes like Farzi and the sequel Namastey Canada attracting unwarranted attention, but that’s part of life in the limelight. Arjun though is whistling through all of it, like a rockstar. As I butt into his catchy humming, I try to catch him off guard...

Was the double role in Mubarakan, the professional challenge you were waiting for?

Honestly, playing two characters in the same film, in the same frame is a big challenge. You have to play off yourself. Your most important co-actor is you. When we shot Mubarakan, I had over sixty minutes of footage with just myself. Modern special effects make the final product look seamless but while shooting, instead of co-actors you have tennis balls or body doubles in front of you. After you play out the first part, you change into the other guy and then you have to listen to your own voice and act out the next part.

Did you get any compliments for Half Girlfriend?