Getting Real with Amit Sadh
About Amit Sadh
1) What are the greatest influences for you in deciding whether or not to take a role?
I am fortunate enough to be at a point in my career where I have options and am able to choose what films I want to be involved in. There are a variety of filmmakers and stories that come my way, and I’m very open because I don’t want to restrict myself to a certain kind of role. I am however influenced by my role models in the industry and when looking at potential roles, I often think about their body of work and how the role fits into that. As long as I’m continuously challenged, there are many roles that I’d love to play.
2) How do you feel about your upcoming political thriller, 10 Janpath?
I’m very excited about this, there’s a lot of action in the film and the story is constantly moving along. Before that however, I’m actually filming a romantic comedy based on Shaadi.com. It’s a much lighter film set in Punjab and I think will be a great contrast to the more serious thriller coming up. Both these films should be released next year, which is exciting.
3) What do you think are the characteristics of a successful film today?
It’s interesting that there doesn’t seem to be a formula for great films in today’s world. Plenty of movies that are acclaimed by critics don’t do well in the box office. On the flip side, people sometimes love a film that’s criticized by the industry. I think great movies are ones that affect people and are appreciated by audiences. What’s really great is that movies with solid content are being appreciated in India just as much as the classic movies with tons of Bollywood dancing, predictable stories, etc. India is a fast growing country and actors and producers are really encouraged by the fact that audiences are embracing diversity and substance in movies today.
4) What actors / actresses are on your wish list to work with?
There are so many inspiring actors and actresses out there, both Bollywood and Hollywood. When I look at a new project, I’m drawn to great stories and not to specific people in the film. Of course, working with the industry legends (Amitabh Bachchan, etc.) would be almost like a “baptism” into the film world. But Russell Crowe, Christian Bale, they all bring something different and amazing so working with any new actor is a great learning experience. There’s talent everywhere.
5) What do you fear most before starting any new project?
In general, I’d like to think I’m very fearless in life. I look at each new project as an exciting opportunity so I’m not afraid…but I do prepare. It’s important for me to read new stories a couple of times and also read them in front of close friends to see their reaction.
6) Do you have a philosophy about the kind of actor you want to be?
The hardest and most important thing is being true to yourself. I try to believe in my inner voice and operate with heart instead of constantly evaluating and analyzing everything. If I love the concept for a film, I usually know it before even reading through the whole script. Of course I’ve made mistakes along the way, but I focus on connecting with people and finding ways to reach them, and I can only do that successfully when I’m real. If I’m not real in real life, then I can’t be real and believable in my roles – that’s important to me because it’s how I impact the world. Everything today is about marketing, but I’d like my work to speak for itself and have the opportunity to evolve without defining exactly what that will be right now.
7) How do you spend your downtime?
I have a lot of interests besides acting. I read a lot, have 2 dogs at home that want constant attention, and like being active. I especially enjoy rock climbing and would love to climb Everest someday.
8) What is your favorite Indian dish?
That’s easy…Biryani! I can eat Biryani any time of day or night.
Interview by Sarina Amin