With Ek Villain doing a business of Rs 100 crore, Sidharth is in on a career high. Not only has he become one-of-the-most sought after actors, his stakes have increased in the ad market too. Only three-films-old but this Student Of The Yearactor has managed to spring suprises with every performance. If Hasee Toh Phasee had him playing a romantic guy, Ek Villainhad him essaying a good boy turned bad and his next, brothers will see him as a boxer. Here, Sidharth talks about evolving as an actor, his transformation and more..
Has Ek Villain changed people's perception of you as an actor?
I hope so. Actually, it started with Hasee Toh Phasee (HTP) more than Ek Villain. HTP was a slice of life film and I was not the typical mainstrean hero. That reassured people. And after Ek Villain I hope they stop looking for reassurance as I have done enough of films with different variety.
The film had you doing a lot of action sequences. Which was the most thrilling?
There was this stunt which had Riteish and me being thrown from a five storied building, wiith harnesses. That was both scary and thrilling.
Tell us about the Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) you have taken up to prepare for your role as a boxer in Brothers.
I had just two months to gain a particular weight and acquire a certain size. The kind of training you do for MMA, you tend to loose weight and my character required me to be bigger (bulked up). I was in a catch 22 situation. I am eating as much as I can and trying to get the style right. It is very strenuous though. I am still slightly under the weather. I am not just a boxer in the film, it's a mix of martial arts.
Does this kind of a physical transformation take a toll on you?
Yes, it does. In this profession we are short of time, our days are not planned like in the US where actors get a six months gap. So, yes we do abuse our bodies, but up to us to do it in a healthy manner with trainers, nutritionists and your own research. It's also fun - what is the point in doing the same things? I have picked up a couple of sports which are new to me. It's also a great way to stay fit. Even after the film, I would like to continue with MMA at least twice a week.
Have you seen Warrior?
Of course, it's a cult film. Brothers is not exactly the same, it's an adaptation. I hope we make a great MMA film for India.
How is the experience shooting with Akshay Kumar?
We haven't started shooted together yet. I have begun shooting recently with Jackie Shroff. He is the nicest guy I have met, he has a great vibe. Shooting with seniors is a great experience - they have some interesting stories to tell!
There are reports about you dating Izabelle Laite..
(Cuts in). That's my personal life, I don't want to comment on it.
Lastly, what prompted you to associate yourself with Aquamagic?
I think it's a youth friendly brand and has a party vibe. A place where youngsters can go and chill. Most importantly, I have always been excited about water activities. Right from childhood I have loved swimming in salt water. I have participated several swimming competitions in Delhi but did not pursue it professionally. So when people from Aquamagica approached me it seemed like a good idea.
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