‘Actors have a roving eye’ ...says South superstar Kamal Haasan as he jests about keeping tabs on competition

‘Actors have a roving eye’

...says South superstar Kamal Haasan as he jests about keeping tabs on competition

It’s been quite a while since actor Kamal Haasan was last seen in a Bollywood film. And now, as the South superstar gears up for his next Hindi release, eight years after his last full-fledged Bolly flick, Mumbai Xpress, Haasan reveals what kept him away from Bollywood for so long. “I would love to work here, and I’ve had offers too, but the story has to choose me,” shares the actor, adding, “As actors we love all stories and see ourselves fit the part too, but ultimately, the audience has to find us convincing in that role. I guess I’m waiting for the right story.” In the city to talk about releasing his film Vishwaroop on the DTH format, the actor also gets candid about his equation with box-office arch-rival and competition Rajinikanth. “We are competitors, but we do keep in touch on and off. I am concerned about his health. Recently when he was in the hospital, we were worried and met him when he came out,” says Haasan. And what about Bollywood actors Salman Khan, Shah Rukh Khan... “Actors have a roving eye, we like to know and stay updated with what films the others are up to,” laughs the actor. Talking about his own Vishwaroop, the actor informs that the film will be visual treat. As for the film’s business being affected due to it being released on the DTH format, Haasan says that the theatres are unlikely to suffer. “For us going to a theatre is like a habit. Irrespective of whether we see the film at home or not, we would still go to theatres, so there’s nothing to lose. I think DTH is a great way of monetising the film to a better level and the theatre-goers will always keep the big screen release in demand,” explains the actor, who’s also written and directed his latest outing. What about plans of Haasan working with daughter actor Shruti Haasan? “I would love to. In fact, we have been planning it since the past 10 years, even before she became an actress. But I am waiting for her to first become a big star. I think like a producer when it comes to casting,” he laughs. On a serious note he adds that he is happy that she has already had a huge hit down South. “Now, let her give a similar hit here too,” he smiles.