Ahead of the World Television Premiere of ‘Bhooth Bangla’, the actor talks about fantasy storytelling, the appeal of horror-comedy and the importance of timing in making audiences laugh.
Q1. Ahead of the World Television Premiere of ‘Bhooth Bangla’, how important is it for a fantasy film to have a convincing reason or logic behind its story so that audiences can relate to it?
Akshay Kumar: I believe there should be a reason behind everything, even when you are dealing with a fantasy world. When you read a comic book, every character has a reason behind their powers. Where do these powers come from? How does a person change, and why does their appearance transform? There is always a reason behind every change. Even when you are dealing with extraordinary characters and fictional situations, it is important to explain the logic behind them. This helps audiences understand the world you have created and connect with it.
Q2. On the occasion of ‘Bhooth Bangla’s’ World Television Premiere, why do you think horror-comedies entertain audiences so much, and what can viewers expect from the film?
Akshay Kumar: I think the combination of horror and comedy is very interesting. When you watch a scary scene, you feel tense and keep wondering what is going to happen next. Then, suddenly, a funny moment comes along and all that tension disappears. People start laughing. That combination is what makes these films so entertaining. However, comedy must emerge naturally from the situation; it cannot be forced.
With Bhooth Bangla, we have tried to give audiences both experiences. One moment, they should feel scared, and the next, they should find themselves laughing. Now that the film is premiering on Zee Cinema, families can enjoy all the fun and madness together at home. Just sit back, relax and enjoy the film. And if you suddenly burst out laughing at a moment when you least expect it, do not be surprised!
Q3. Comedy often comes from unexpected situations. How much does your own sense of humour contribute when you are performing a scene?
Akshay Kumar: I think comedy depends entirely on timing, knowing what to say at the right moment and observing the things happening around you. In everyday life, we encounter many funny situations without even realising how much humour they contain. As actors, we get the opportunity to bring those little observations to the screen.
Sometimes, a simple facial expression or a brief pause can make people laugh much more than a long dialogue. In a film like Bhooth Bangla, where the situations are so unusual, the fun lies in how naturally you react to them. As an actor, you have to take the situation seriously as your character, even when the audience is laughing at it. That is what makes comedy effective.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?si=RtToJsBhYBatUrym&v=mOuYNSdhjHA&feature=youtu.be
