Web gives freedom to experiment: Gul
After establishing herself as a versatile actor in the Indian film industry, Gul Panag is ready to explore the web space. The actress is currently shooting for Anushka Sharma's next production (Amazon Prime) as well as an action-drama series 'The Family Man'
From being an actress to a pilot, an entrepreneur, traveller, and a mother, Gul Panag has left no stone unturned in proving her versatility to the world. In a recent interview with Millenniumpost, Gul talks about her outlook on web platform, recent projects, challenges of being a generalist and much more....
Every actor/filmmaker has their own reason to choose web as a platform. What is your reason for working on web projects?
As an actor, I've always been drawn to good story telling. The web offers great opportunities for experimentation, which is core to interesting storytelling.
Lately, your presence on the big screen has decreased. Does that mean you will be only focussing on web now?
I don't think I want to restrict myself to a particular medium – it depends on how compelling I find the story, irrespective of the medium its told on. I think I am fortunate enough to find roles that seem to be written for me. For example, Student of the Year – which was a mainstream film – had me playing a bike riding, fitness coach, both of which are true passions of mine.
After having worked in the web space, do you think it is a better platform to narrate a story more elaborately?
Yes, because you have the freedom to experiment with the number of episodes and each episode can be of different length. As for the films, there are short ones with incredible stories that creates a lasting impression. However, long films are difficult to remember for a considerable time. But in the end, it depends on the story, who tells it, and how that is important.
There are rumours that you are going to work with Anushka Sharma's production house for a web series...
Yes, I am working on a web series and Anushka is producing it. This Amazon Prime's original is an investigative thriller and I am playing a pivotal role in it.
You have explored different genres in your career.What kind of stories interests you the most?
I don't think it's any one genre. I've done light films like Hello and SOTY and others like Manorama 6 Feet Under and Dor. As an actor, you have to be able to span a variety of roles and genres. But the script and the set-up is very important.
How does Gul Panag – an entrepreneur, pilot, traveller, blogger, actor, mom – balance her personal and professional life?
It is tough! But then there's so much I want to do. Being an actor is just one part of who I am. I like the tapestry that my life's creating with all these different pieces… it's a fun picture.
Please tell us something about your upcoming projects on the web as well as on the big screen?
As mentioned earlier, I'm shooting for Anushka's Clean Slate Films for Amazon Prime. I'm also shooting for a film produced by Neil Nitin Mukesh called Bypass Road in which I play an antagonist. And a series for Amazon Prime with Manoj Bajpayee.
