`Ek Villain` a radical departure from earlier roles: Riteish

Mumbai: Actor Riteish Deshmukh says that his role in the upcoming film `Ek Villain` is a radical departure from his past performances.

Riteish`s unassuming "aam aadmi" look, with a sinister streak in the film, has managed to grab people`s attention. Apparently, he will be playing an antagonist in the film. "I play a middle-class family man, frustrated by the unfair treatment meted out to him from every corner of society. Playing the role of Rakesh has been the most exciting choice I have made in my career. I have enjoyed exploring this alternate side of me," Riteish said in a statement here. Riteish was director Mohit Suri`s first and only choice for this role in `Ek Villain`. "There is something evil about a person who is so regular and ordinary. Rakesh`s character lurks in the shadows. He isn`t loud and in-your-face, but his mere presence can be unnerving," Mohit said. With actor Sidharth Malhotra also being touted as a villain in this musical romantic thriller, speculation over the identity of the real villain continues. "Anyone could be the villain. That is for you to watch and find out," the director said. Produced by Ekta Kapoor, the film is expected to release on June 27.