Mehreen Pirzada says that 'Spark', set to hit the cinemas on November 17, is a uniquely-conceived thriller on every level. The multi-lingual actress suggests that the new-age thriller is based on certain undisclosed, true incidents that took place in the US. "Vikranth, the debutant hero-writer-director, wrote the story by blending commercial ingredients," the 'Mahanubhavudu' actress says.
In this interview, Mehreen sounds mellowed, having experienced ups and downs through her eight-year-old career.
I am glad that Vikranth picked me for his debut movie. When the team came to me, they gave a presentation of multiple looks meant for my character. They conveyed how they intended to present me. They had done research into my look before approaching me. I was convinced that they had worked really hard.
My character is quite important. The story starts and ends with me. Lekha (my name in the movie) is pivotal to the story. Vikranth's character, obviously, is the most important one. The lyrical videos released so far have proved that I have been showcased in a refreshing way, be it in terms of close-up shots, the colour palette or the costumes.
This is the first time I have done a thriller of this sort. Lekha chases her dreams. Whatever she dreams of, she works towards fulfilling that. In real life, my dreams are important to me. The day you stop dreaming, you stop living.
Vikranth has donned multiple hats in doing 'Spark'. He was intensely involved in all phases of the film. He has worked extremely hard. He was doing great in his chosen field. Out of passion for cinema, he left that field and entered the film industry to make a name for himself.
Every movie is a new experience. People look at you differently each time you try something different. Even after all these years, the audience fondly remember me for 'Krishna Gaadi Veera Prema Gaadha' and 'F2'. The characters in those two films are fresh in the minds of the audience. I give my 200% regardless of what I do.
I am currently doing a film in Tamil opposite Vasanth Ravi. The film is shaping up extremely well.
It hasn't been easy for me. There have been ups and downs. But I have my 'spark' moments in life when people identify me by my character. When someone shouts my characters' names at shop launch events, for example. I see it as an award.
Since my first Telugu film, I haven't played a village woman to date. Some filmmakers feel that I don't look good as a villager. I am like, 'Excuse me, I did that with my very first film'. I always try to break out of my mold. It is because of the faith some filmmakers like Anil Ravipudi have had in me that I landed offers like 'F2'.
I did a web series titled 'Sultan of Delhi' in Hindi. I am open to OTT offers in Telugu as well.
It is true that I was a little chubby when I started out. And now, I have transitioned into a more glamorous, slim avatar. My body type has been bubbly right from my childhood. After all, I am a Punjabi. I have adapted myself to the demands of my roles. I was too thin in 'Manchi Rojulochaie'. I later put on some weight to undo the skinny look. People say I have finally achieved a balance (laughs).