The iconic villains of Indian Cinema Ranjeet, Gulshan Grover, Raza Murad and Kiran Kumar shed light on the nuances of playing the role of a villain that forms the crux of many films at the In- Conversation session held at IFFI 54 today. The segment titled ‘The Villains – Leaving a Lasting Impression’, held on the sidelines of the prestigious festival at Kala Academy, Panaji witnessed a house full attendance.
Highlighting the importance that villains play in cinema, Raza Murad expressed, “Villains add flavor to a film and they play a very vital role. When we play such parts in a film, we serve the audience the flavor they love, enjoy and crave for. Films are incomplete without a villain.”
On being asked about his preparation for the role of a villain, Gulshan Grover said, “When I play the role of a villain in a film, my belief, my thoughts have no significance. I am the person that the script demands.”
Speaking on the audiences expectations from the role they play, Kiran Kumar said “We are entertainers, not actors. Our job is to entertain those who sit from the front to the last row in a theatre. It is to deliver and give him his money’s worth.” He further added that the job of a villain who plays a negative role is to ensure that the hero in the film gets portrayed as a superhero. While sharing his remarks on the significance of role of a villain, he said, “Without an opposition to the hero, any film is incomplete.”
While sharing his thoughts on the use of profane language used by a villain in a film, Kiran Kumar said, “If required, one should not shy away from using it.” He further explained that the language can help the viewers to understand the region to which a person belongs thereby effectively conveying the part one is playing in the film.
In addition to the others remarks, Ranjeet added, “I believe one can portray himself/herself as a villain even without the use of profane languages. I can do so with just my acting alone.” Based on his experiences in the movies, he added, “Yes, I have played the role of a crude villain but never an uncouth one.”
Recognizing the significance of costume as an important aspect of portraying a character, Raza Murad said, “Costume is essential for character build-up. It enhances the role a person is playing. However one must always remember that costume will always be an accessory”, and it will not work if one is not talented enough, he added.