Former Aussie cricketer in an interview with mid-day talks about keeping his private life private, despite an Indo-Australian film debut 'UnIndian'
Brett Lee
On A five-day visit to India for promoting of his debut film, 'UnIndian', former Australian cricketer Brett Lee is getting a hang of how the film industry functions. His diary is choc-a-bloc with media interactions and TV shoots. Not to forget, a big bash planned for friends from the Bollywood and cricket world. Lee, however, doesn't mind the maddening schedule. After all, this is what keeps him busy post retirement. We caught up with the blonde speedster-turned-actor at a suburban preview theatre for a quick chat. Excerpts:
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Brett Lee. Pic/Satej Shinde
Q. Was turning actor a conscious decision?
A. I had never thought I would do a movie. Anupam Sharma [producer] presented 'UnIndian' to me, and said he wants me to act. I declined, but persisted. He said he could see only me playing the part. And it turned out to be a wonderful experience. I did this film because of the subject. It's an Australian film with a nice message. While playing [cricket], you are in front of the camera all the time. At times, you have to act up as well without looking into the lens, of course. My commentary experience helped me to face the camera. Marketing a film is a different ball game altogether; film promotions are akin to playing Test cricket. Some interviews are like T20 matches, except that you have to look fresh all the time (laughs).
Q. Did you take acting lessons?
A. Yes, I attended sessions with acting coaches in Sydney and with Hollywood actors Russell Crowe and Cate Blanchett, who are incredible. I also worked with vocal specialist, Bill Pepper. The crash course lasted five to six weeks after which we started shooting.
Q. What was your family's reaction to the film?
A. They loved it. They said, for the first five minutes of the film, they saw Brett, their brother and son, but after that, they saw Will, my character. That was a huge compliment.
Q. Are you ready for a typical masala Bollywood film?
A. I am ready for it, if the script is right. I got many offers, but none excited me.
Q. Which Hindi film actor do you admire?
A. I like watching Big B [Amitabh Bachchan]. He is a legend. He has been on top of his game for decades and is respected the world over. I have seen many of his films.
Q. You have sung in the movie. Do you plan to pursue it further?
A. I am planning to do a concert tour across Indian cities.
Q. In India, cricketers are worshipped, and their personal life is always under scanner. How does the Australian media treat you?
A. You cannot compare it with the fan following that cricketers command in India. I am humbled by the way we are treated, and appreciate how people love cricket and look up to stars. However, at the end of the day, I am just another person. For the last 20 years, I have been playing cricket, expressing myself on the field and keeping my private life private.
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