Though his debut movie "Love Story 2050" is still under way, Harman Baweja, producer Harry Baweja's son, has been voted the most anticipated newcomer of 2007 in a Filmfare poll. He is surprised at having beaten Ranbir Kapoor, the son of Rishi Kapoor and Neetu Singh, in the race.
"I'm very surprised because Ranbir is being launched by the 'magician' Sanjay Leela Bhansali whereas I'm being launched by my father. Of course, Harry Baweja is a big name. But people don't take doting fathers seriously."
"However, I'm lucky to have my dad launch me in a film as huge as 'Love Story 2050'. It's definitely one of the most expensive films produced in the country," he added.
Harman has not only left behind Ranbir but is being constantly compared with heartthrob Hrithik Roshan as well.
Asked how he reacts to comparisons, Harman said: "I find these premature comparisons very immature. It's extremely unfair to me to be compared to a guy who is eight years and 25 films ahead of me. I'm just a new kid on the block. Hrithik knows all the tricks of the trade."
Harman is all praises for his co-star Priyanka Chopra.
"She's an extremely challenging co-star and a seasoned trouper in front of me. She's worked with the likes of Shah Rukh Khan, Salman Khan and Hrithik Roshan. She's a very helpful co-star. A lot of the credit for what I've done in 'Love Story 2050' goes to her. She always pointed out my mistakes."
Excerpts:
Q: You've been voted the most promising newcomer, ahead of Ranbir Kapoor.
A: I'm surprised, very surprised because Ranbir is being launched by the magician Sanjay Leela Bhansali whereas I'm being launched by my father. Of course, Harry Baweja is a big name. But people don't take doting fathers seriously.
However, I'm lucky to have my dad launch me in a film as huge as "Love Story 2050". It's definitely one of the most expensive films produced in this country. It's your typical hardcore commercial film...but with a twist. Half the film is F-X, all done internationally. We're ready to release towards the end of the year.
Q: How was it working with Priyanka Chopra in your very first film?
A: She's an extremely challenging co-star and a seasoned trouper in front of me. She's worked with the likes of Shah Rukh, Salman Khan and Hrithik Roshan. She's a very helpful co-star. A lot of the credit for what I've done in "Love Story 2050" goes to her. She always pointed out my mistakes.
Q: And did you listen to her?
A: Of course, I took her advice, and my dad and my cameraman. I've been brought up to be obedient.
Q: How do you react to being compared with Hrithik Roshan?
A: I find these premature comparisons very immature. It's extremely unfair for me to be compared to a guy who is eight years and 25 films ahead of me. I'm just a new kid on the block. Hrithik knows all the tricks of the trade. I've just started.
Q: Maybe you're compared with him because your debut "Love Story 2050" resembles "Krrish"?
A: Wait and see, "Love Story 2050" is nothing like anything we've ever seen. On the script level it has even been registered at the American Guild Of Writers as a totally unique experience. My dad wrote this script long back.
He wanted to make it with another actor in 2000, just like I believe Hrithik's dad wrote his debut "Kaho Naa...Pyaar Hai" for another actor. Maybe it was meant to be the perfect rain check for me. My parents have always pampered me with the most lavish gifts. Dad always spoilt me silly. But this one beats them all.
Q: It's a sci-fi thriller, isn't it?
A: Sort of. When we tossed the idea at our friends everyone was like saying, "Dude, what are you attempting?" Luckily, we knew what we were doing. Now when the film is ready everyone is saying, "Dude, it's a great idea. Why didn't we make it first?"
Q: Frightened by the expectations?
A: Expectations only add another engine to my rocket. I always feel there's room for improvement. My mom taught me one thing - she said that it is easy to achieve 90 percent of your potential. It's the last 10 percent that needs real working on. The last lap is a mammoth task.
Q: Your dancing skills are being compared with Hrithik?
A: Ganesh Hegde and Ahmed Khan have choreographed all my dances in my debut film. I believe I've developed my own style of dancing and it's very different from what the other A-1 dancers Hrithik and Shahid Kapur do on screen. I'm sure I'll be able to create my own dancing and acting niche.
Q: You've assisted your dad through many of his films...
A: Yes, I have. I helped my dad first with his "Deewane". But that doesn't mean I'm equipped to direct a film. Maybe a decade from now I'd direct a film. I've a long way to go as an actor.
By being knowledgeable about behind-the-camera goings-on I certainly didn't become knowledgeable as an actor. You can watch movies all your life but it doesn't mean you can direct films.
Q: Final thoughts?
A: Still lots to do. Each time I sit down on the editing of "Love Story 2050" I feel I could've done better.
Anupamaa
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