Entertainment


Franchise films are like fixed deposit, so I have no problems: Abhishek Banerjee

Mumbai, May 15 (UNI) Actor Abhishek Banerjee has openly embraced the growing franchise culture in the Indian film industry, saying such projects not only provide financial stability but also help actors build a lasting bond with audiences.
When asked whether he finds franchise films repetitive and playing the same character over and over again limiting, Banerjee cuts right in. “I come from the middle class. I am very happy that these franchise films are happening, okay? They are my FDs (fixed deposits), so I have no problems. Please cast me in as many franchises as you can. Keep giving me money, and I'll try to do my best. I have no problems with it. Please bring it on; 3, 4, 5, I don't care!”
With characteristic wit, he said filmmakers are welcome to cast him in as many sequels as they wish, whether it be the third, fourth or even fifth chapter of a franchise, adding that he is more than willing to continue delivering his best performances, reports Variety India.
Banerjee has been part of two major film and streaming franchises. He is the loveable Janaa in Maddock’s supernatural universe that began with “Stree” and now includes titles like “Bhediya”, “Munjya” and “Thamma”. He is also 'Compounder' in Prime Video’s “Mirzapur” and returns for “Mirzapur: The Movie” when it hits the theatres this September.
The actor, who began his career as a casting director and co-owns a casting agency, is extremely clear on what fame and success look like for him. While he balances his filmography with commercial hits like the box office juggernaut “Stree 2” and indie films like the critically acclaimed “Stolen”, he wants recognition from the masses.
Recalling a recent encounter, Banerjee shared that a security guard instantly recognised him as 'Compounder' from "Mirzapur" a moment he described as far more meaningful than superficial fame.
Banerjee has quite a few upcoming releases lined up, chief among them being his Tamil debut in “Legacy” alongside R. Madhavan and a short in the “Lust Stories 3” anthology opposite Konkona Sen Sharma. UNI NST SSP
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