‘Straight’ is about homophobia, says Vinay Pathak

Funnyman Vinay Pathak and gorgeous babe Gul Panag have every reason to be hopeful about their upcoming comedy ‘Straight- Pinu Patel Ki Tedhi Medhi Love Story’, which promises to be truly hatke. The film is about the confused sexuality of the central character Pinu Patel and the comic situations that emerge out of the confusion. The story is set in London against the backdrop of an Indian restaurant called ‘Gaylord’, which is run by a Londoner of Indian origin called Pinu. A simple soul at heart, Pinu has many complexes - a special one being that he is a virgin. In an exclusive chit-chat with Spicezee, Vinay Pathak and Gul Panag talked their heart out about the film and the different storyline. Spicezee: What was your reaction when you were offered this film - Straight- Pinu Patel Ki Tedhi Medhi Love Story? Vinay Pathak:I was happy about it and the moment I got to know that director Parvati Balagopalan has agreed to work in it, I gave my assent. Spicezee: Gul, what makes this comedy film different from others we have been watching lately? Gul Panag: This film is not slapstick but situational. The characters who undergo the experiences are seriously troubled about their plight but viewers will find the situations hilarious. Moreover, the film follows the genre of comedy films made by Amol Palekar, Hrishikesh Mukherjee. Spicezee: Vinay is playing the lead role in the film, what’s your role? Gul Panag: I am playing Renu, an art student, who is a modern-day girl. She is very normal. The most special thing about this character Renu is that she is very real. This had to be convincingly portrayed. I discussed with Parvati to make my character more interesting. Spicezee: Vinay, how much homework did you do for the film? Vinay Pathak: I put in as much effort as was required. If the story is strong and director’s vision is clear then not much effort is required. The actor should know the script very well to understand the character and should have the talent to essay the role. Parvati is very talented. I have worked with so many directors, so I know. The coming generation will know why I am saying this. And also, (looking at Gul Panag) I am honoured to work with such a beautiful co-star. Spicezee: Please tell us about the changing trends in Bollywood? Vinay Pathak:Today, new story-tellers and writers have come, which is good for the film industry. Earlier, literature related the story of a particular time. Now, films are doing that. Whatever changes are coming in the society – films are being made on it. If these films are going to be a hit then it’s very good. Spicezee: Vinay has been praising you, did he do this while the shooting was on? Gul Panag: He did this while shooting for the film, he is doing it right now. I just want to say that I am very thankful to him. Spicezee: What is the film about? Vinay Pathak:The film is not about homosexuality but homophobia. In our society, we do not express our thoughts openly. We don’t accept our thoughts. We do not accept homophobia. The film may appear to be a comedy but underneath it is a serious take on homophobia. Adaptation: Shivangi Singh