Imtiaz Ali’s new find, the leggy supermodel Diana Penty, talks about her dream debut in Saif Ali Khan’s Cocktail and what she has in common with Shah Rukh Khan.
You share your birthday with Shah Rukh Khan. Do you think you have something in common with him besides that?
I don’t know about that, but I just wish his luck rubs off on me too.
Reportedly, Imtiaz Ali suggested your name for Cocktail. His earlier finds, Nargis Fakhri and Giselli Monteiro, are still struggling to make a place for themselves in the industry. Do you think it will be different for you?
I met Imtiaz, but I have no idea if he actually suggested my name.
So how did you land the role?
I was in Rome for a photo shoot. Illuminati (Saif and Dinesh Vijan’s production company) called and said, ‘We want to meet you for a project.’ They asked me to do an audition; the very next day they called me and said ‘You are on’. It was that quick.
Is Cocktail a great debut?
It’s a dream debut. I think my character Meera is a great role. When I heard about it, I felt an instant connect.
Heard that Deepika Padukone was offered both the roles and she chose Veronica. If you were given that opportunity, which role would you have chosen?
I wouldn’t even think twice. I would have picked Meera with my eyes closed.
Why?
Because the minute I heard this character’s journey, I wanted to play the role. It was something that came naturally to me.
In real life are you more like the shy and diffident Meera or the wild child Veronica?
Meera.
There is a notion that models are not very good actresses. Do you think you will be able to break that?
I hate that notion. How would you really know unless you give the person a chance?
You replaced Deepika as the brand ambassador of an international cosmetic brand and now you are working with her in a movie. Did that make things awkward for you?
Not at all. She was really professional. Also the fact that we both come from non-film background helps. So we kind of relate to each other as friends.
How was it working with Saif? What sets him apart from the other Khans?
I haven’t worked with the other Khans, so I can’t compare. Saif is spontaneous and improvises a lot.
Are you a Bombay girl?
Yes, I am. I have been brought up here. I went to St. Andrews School and later to St. Xavier’s College.
What kind of guy can sweep Diana off her feet?
( Laughs ) I don’t know. We should just click with each other.
And what is the biggest put off in a man?
Tight jeans. I hate guys who wear tight jeans ( laughs) .
Bollywood News Service
