National award-winning actor Manoj Bajpayee is receiving positive feedback for his recently released film, “Last Man in Tower.” During the film’s promotion in Andheri West, Mumbai, he shared what draws him to the acting profession.
Bajpayee emphasized that the most intriguing aspect of acting, whether in cinema or theater, is the opportunity to embody different characters and convey their emotions authentically on screen. He believes that acting transcends mere entertainment; it serves as a powerful medium for sharing people’s stories and feelings with audiences.
While discussing his craft alongside actress Divya Dutta and director Ben Rekhi, Bajpayee highlighted the profession’s unique ability to allow actors to embrace their darker sides. He candidly addressed the fear that can accompany new projects, admitting, “Oh, my God. Sometimes you just want to say no. There are moments when you want to call Ben and say, ‘I don’t think I’m right for this,’ because you feel scared. Every character has a dark side that you must confront, and that’s not easy.”
He expressed admiration for fellow actors, noting that their capacity to accept their dark sides is what enables them to connect with the complexities of their roles. “It’s not just because I’m an actor myself. I understand what others go through. They must first embrace their own dark side to relate to the darker aspects of their characters. As actors, we are often quite hard on ourselves,” he remarked.
Bajpayee also acknowledged the personal nature of these struggles, stating, “They might not tell you why we should share our dark sides. It’s a very private matter. Playing roles with so many shades of gray and layers is not easy. If I’m not in a process of understanding or knowing myself, I cannot comprehend the character I’m portraying.”
His insights shed light on the intricate relationship between actors and their craft, revealing the depth and dedication required to bring complex characters to life.