Bollywood to Hollywood, why?

They are at the top of their game in Bollywood. Why then would they want to become second-string players in Hollywood? But A-listers like Priyanka Chopra, Katrina Kaif and Kangana Ranaut are gung-ho about their international projects.

While PC has an impressive line-up of films like Gangaajal 2, Bajirao Mastani and her home production Madamji, she’s been in the news for her Hollywood TV show Quantico, which will air this year. Kangana, who is in a strong position with Tanu Weds Manu Returns doing extremely well at the box office, is apparently all set to work with Hugh Grant in the Rani Lakshmibai biopic. And according to reports, Katrina is looking out for international projects as well.

While the ladies are looking Westward, the Khans –– Aamir, Salman and Shah Rukh –– cannot be bothered with international projects. Scriptwriter Juhi Chaturvedi, who wrote Piku and Vicky Donor, says, “Bollywood is their (the Khans’) domain. With so much applaud and massive fan following, they are kings here. What’s the point of doing a ‘blink-and-you-miss-it’ role in Hollywood? Moreover, they have been around for over two decades and have cemented their position step by step.”

But it’s also true that actresses have a short shelf life in showbiz. Writer Kanika Dhillon thus feels that it’s a natural instinct to expand one’s career. “It’s difficult to perform the same kind of roles often. When you work on a Hollywood film, the hype is manifold. It’s a wonderful platform to showcase your talent. Though Indian audiences are evolving, it’s certainly not enough.”

While bagging a Hollywood project is certainly excellent publicity, it should not end up being the “be all and end all’ of everything. Producer Mukesh Bhatt says, “Working in an English language film doesn’t make you a superior actor. It’s just an opportunity to work in different films. You don’t become gold by touching gold.”
Director Madhur Bhandarkar meanwhile feels there’s nothing wrong in broadening your horizons if you are getting a good opportunity. “If you are getting good work, it shouldn’t matter whether it’s Bollywood or Hollywood. After all, it’s an individual’s choice. Let’s not cloud things with cynicism instead of lauding their work,” Madhur adds.