Portrayal Of Gay Men In Films Has Definitely Left 'Aligarh' Actor Rajkummar Rao Bitter!
Hansal Mehta's Aligarh has already stirred enough controversies.
In a recent press conference, actor Rajkummar Rao pointed out something which we all know, but we choose to ignore.
Describing the cliche representation of gay people in films, Rajkummar said: "I am uncomfortable with how gay people are shown in comedies and films... I don't agree with it. I anyway have a problem with anything that is caricaturist or over-the-top in nature. 'Aligarh' is an important film because it shows these people like anyone else."
Rajkummar also confessed that he wasn't doubtfull at all about the film and he instantly fell in love with the script.
He said, "A good script is rare to come by. 80 per cent of what we get is plain boring or conventional. 'Aligarh' is one of the most beautifully written scripts ever. I can't say no to a story like this nor can I do anything (bad) to my craft. I knew we were making something very important. This would make people talk about the issue. As an artiste there was no hesitancy on my part. We wanted to tell this story with full conviction."
Rajkummar's character is inspired by journalist Deepu Sebastian, who covered stories related to Siras. Even though he could not meet Sebastian during the shoot, he did get a chance to speak to him on the phone. Talking about his character, Rao added:
Eros now
"My character is based on this guy called Deepu Sebastian. I spoke to him a number of times, tried to figure out his way of working. He was very open about everything, supportive and was all for the cause and the movie. He shared many recorded interviews with me which helped me pick his accent.
I got a commitment and energy from him that I tried putting in my character. I could not meet him at that time though. I met him after the first screening and the first thing he told me was 'I never kissed my editor!' I told him, 'It is okay no one will judge you on that'."
Talking about sharing screen space with Manoj for the fist time, the young star said, "Working with him was wonderful. Acting is about reacting to the other person. Manoj sir creates such magical moments on screen that it feels amazing working alongside him." After critically acclaimed films like Shahid and CityLights, Rajkummar has given his best to Aligarh as well. The film is all set to hit theatres on February 26.
(With inputs from PTI)
