Queen proved that the century-long struggle paid off: Kangana Ranaut

GANGSTER (2006)

“I’m proud of my performance but disappointed with the reaction I got, because I think it was a much better performance than Queen. The film clicked and suddenly I was on every brilliant director’s ‘Favourite Actress’ list, but not a single one signed me. It was a lonely battle; me against the world.”

FASHION (2008)

“After Gangster, I was confused. My talent wasn’t helping me get work. I did some bad films just to remain visible. Life in a Metro wasn’t my film, nor was Fashion. After Fashion, people thought I was a dope head and that was not a good feeling [laughs].”

ONCE UPON A TIME IN MUMBAAI (2010)

“I worked very hard, although I had very little screen-time in a male-centric film. Director Milan Luthria really helped me with the character. In the second half, we had to establish the fact that Ajay Devgn’s character gives up everything for this girl. Is she worth it? Through my look, expressions and limited lines, I had to convey the passion that she feels for this man.”

TANU WEDS MANU (2011)

“The phone was ringing but not with great offers. Milan [Luthria] offered me The Dirty Picture, but how many times could I play the girl on the verge of a nervous breakdown? Anand Rai noticed me in a romantic role in Once Upon a Time in Mumbai and offered me Tanu Weds Manu. The film changed the game for me. Vikas Bahl was convinced I could play Rani after watching Tanu.”

QUEEN (2014)

“I was confused about why Vikas [director] wanted me for Rani. I’d played a supermodel [Fashion] and a superwoman [Krissh 3], how could I be Rani? I don’t think it’s a great performance; it’s the supporting cast that elevates it. Rajkummar Rao’s arrogance makes Rani more vulnerable while Lisa Haydon’s liberated ways made her appear caged. There are films you do justice to and then there are films that do justice to your talent. Queen proved that the century-long struggle paid off!” 

Published in The Express Tribune, March 26^th, 2014.

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