Model turned actor Nargis Fakhri is ready to be ‘re-launched’ in her second film Madras Café. From playing the inspiration to Ranbir Kapoor’s Rockstar, she will be seen in a different role portraying an international war correspondent in the upcoming film. The movie was “worth the wait” believes Nargis Fakhri. “People have been questioning me about the ‘gap’ in my career though I have been busy shooting for ad promotions and other assignments. There were many scripts which came my way but the instant I heard of Madras Café, I was really excited and decided to go ahead with it,” says Nargis who debuted in 2011.
Portraying a tough as nails journalist didn’t come naturally. “I went through a lot of footage and documentaries on BBC and other international channels. I also read up on the Sri Lankan conflict but I was more focused on how to portray the character of Jaya in the film, who wants to bring out the truth,” adds the 33 year-old actress. The fact that women are unsafe whether in a conflict zone or in corporate offices is a point she finds unfortunate. “I have so much respect now for those who cover conflict situations. I am not casual about news anymore - something we take for granted in our lives. I pay more attention to what makes headlines,” says Nargis.
The movie directed by Shoojit Sircar who turned the concept of ‘star’ cast on its head with Vicky Donor last year, is being touted as a ‘re-launch’ for the actress. “I am happy that the director brought out the less-known side of me. People don’t know much about me whereas my interaction with Shoojit helped him zero in on my personality which matched the character,” adds the actress who is all praise for her co-star in the film, John Abraham. “He is a very kind and approachable person and gave me a lot of confidence. I consider myself lucky to have worked with such wonderful people early on in my career,” she adds.
The film was shot partly in Kerala and made for a great excuse to combine work and pleasure for the actress. “We were shooting at Athirapally falls and it is one of the most beautiful places on earth. I can almost live there. I am the ‘go and get to know’ kind of traveller. So I took my time, going around villages and into the jungle with a local guide and tasted the local cuisine, looked at the medicinal plants used by the communities living there,” adds the actor.
Queued up are the remake of Shaukeen and two other projects, shares the actress who hopes that she has more to offer in future. “Though I have been written off previously, I would like to say that it is not over yet,” signs off Nargis.