Linda Arsenio of ‘Kabul Express’ fame is an American model turned actress who is casting her Texan charms on Indian cinema.
Cultural Background
I’m a Texan-born American. My mother’s native tongue is Spanish as she’s from Central America so I grew up in an English and Spanish speaking household. My father is Yugoslavian.
Journey so far
America and India are two completely different places with their own advantages and disadvantages. It was quite a stark jump to go from living in New York City to Chennai initially. I have met and worked with some of the most awesome Indian friends here. But Hollywood is what my heart really knows. That said, I love working for Indian films.
The Fraternity
The ‘Kabul Express’ experience was fun and challenging. John Abraham and Arshad Warsi are such wonderful people. Mammooty is very humble and has a regal aura about him. I especially enjoyed working with the director Hariharan of ‘Pazasshiraja’ fame. I was amazed at his power, gentleness and seemingly effortlessness calm. Working with Nagarjuna in ‘Kedi’ was fun. He always has so much to say. ‘Mumbai Salsa’ with Vikram Bhatt was enjoyable.
Language barriers
I find languages interesting. And I know basic Tamil. So far, I have performed and dubbed in Hindi and English and don’t find it too difficult. One day I shall dub just as good as anybody else.
On Chennai
I love Chennai and miss it a lot. It is like a homecoming every time I visit. I love the people and miss my friends there. It’s always such a pleasure to come out of the airport and see these bright shining smiles everywhere. There is this endearing sweetness I like about the south. Perhaps that’s why I continue to shoot there. I’ve visited various temples and landmarks throughout Tamil Nadu. They have left an indelible mark on me. I shall always celebrate the exposure.
Hollywood actresses in Indian cinema
The world is getting smaller and smaller. So why should one industry be exclusively for its people? It should go without saying that one should respect and resonate with that particular genre of cinema that one may embark upon. For example, a French film and a Malayalam film are shot and portrayed differently but a true actor can handle both with versatility.
Hates to live with: Judgemental people
Hotties : Hritihik Roshan and Johnny Depp
Beauties with brains : Kajol and Natalie Portman
Would love to work with : Rajinikanth, Salman Khan, Morgan Freeman, and Julia Roberts; Madhur Bhandarkar (Indian) James Cameron (Hollywood)
Reading at the moment : Brida by Paulo Coelho
Humming : An Indian Cherokee tribal song from Sacred Spirits
Favourite cuisine: Indian of course! But I definitely miss a good old authentic Tex/Mex meal
Upcoming Project: ‘Dam 999’ was more of an action-oriented role and I enjoyed it very much. I play the role of Sandra who is the Navarasa of Veer – courage. It was great as I got to work with an American and some British actors in the film. So it was nice to chat about things back home.