John Abraham: I say what I feel, even at risk of being politically incorrect

John Abraham

Bearly four months after his last big screen outing, Rocky Handsome, John Abraham is set for another 70mm appearance with action-adventure flick, Dishoom, co-starring Varun Dhawan and Jacqueline Fernandez.

John Abraham

As the film's promotions reach a crescendo, hitlist catches up with the dishy, dimpled actor for a tête-à-tête. Excerpts:

Q. Being outspoken has backfired for a few actors recently. Are you someone who would rather be politically correct than speak his mind?
A. I say what I feel, even at the risk of being politically incorrect. I am responsible enough to know the repercussions of a statement, but I say things that match people's sentiments about current incidents.

Q. Actors undergo drastic physical transformation as per the script's demand. Do you endorse the idea?
A. It is justified for an actor to put on or lose weight according to their film's requirement. I would gladly do it. But, this change within a short span can be risky. If you do it in a scientific and structured way, it is fine.

Q. Are you part of Aankhen 2?
A. No, I don't think it appeals to me or my sensibilities.

Q. What about Dostana 2? Is it happening?
A. I have always told Karan (Johar) that we should do the sequel. But, only he can take the final call.

Q. Are you sceptical about playing a homosexual man?
A. In Dostana, I was just pretending to be homosexual. I do films that have strong content; the character may or may not be homosexual. The story should make sense and be credible.

Q. Who's your favourite co-star?
A. I have a few favourites - Varun (Dhawan), Akshay (Kumar), Abhishek (Bachchan). I think I get along better with male co-stars than with actresses. Now, that doesn't indicate that I am doing a homosexual film! (laughs)

Q. You have done a few negative roles too. Do you like the grey zone?
A. Yeah, being normal is boring; I prefer negative roles.

Q. Have you ever chased anyone for a role?
A. Yes, I am chasing Shoojit (Sircar) right now, because I am looking for that ideal role.

Q. Any plans to produce or act in Malayalam films?
A. Yes, I want to produce Malayalam films. There were talks about doing a special appearance in a film; that's something I want to explore more. I have great regard for the content, directors and actors there. I am a huge fan of Mammooty sir and Mohanlal sir. I met Siddique (Malayalam film actor) recently and expressed a desire to work with him.

Q. What gives you a high - acting or producing films?
A. Acting, I believe.

Q. One film of yours that your parents couldn't stop praising?
A. Mom seems to like the worst of my films; it is Taxi No 9211 for her. Dad liked Madras Café.

Q. Any regrets about your career?
A. I should learn to say ‘no' as easily as I say ‘yes'. If I had done that earlier, it would have saved me the hard work of doing some disastrous projects.

Q. What is the one thing no one knows about you?
A. I don't think anyone knows anything about me.

Q. What makes John Abraham cry?
A. Seeing old people makes me emotional, and animals getting hurt makes me cry, which is why hunting is not cool.