Prem Chopra: A Veteran Villain
Prem Chopra has been a staple in the Bollywood industry for many decades, having played the antagonist in numerous films. His signature line, “Prem Naam Hai Mera, Prem Chopra,” from the movie ‘Bobby’ became synonymous with villainy in Bollywood. His knack for portraying the bad guy with a unique charm and intensity was unparalleled. In a recent interview, Chopra pointed out an interesting shift in the portrayal of villains in today’s films. He observed that leading men of the industry are now exploring diverse roles, including that of the villain, expanding beyond the traditional romantic hero archetype. This shift, according to Chopra, has led to an interesting blend of characters that are not just black or white but are painted in shades of grey.
Hollywood Influence on Bollywood Villains
The influence of the Hollywood film industry is quite visible in the portrayal of villains in Bollywood. The concept of villains with a backstory, which justifies their actions, is something that we see in Hollywood films. This aspect has been incorporated into Bollywood, making the villains more relatable and humane.
The relatability of modern villains, Chopra believes, comes from their detailed backstories. Unlike the villains of old who were purely evil, modern villains often have a reason for their actions. A tragic past or a personal vendetta often drives them to their villainous path, making them more human and understandable. This approach, according to Chopra, has made the villains more likable and sympathetic.
The New Age Villains
The new age villains in Bollywood are not just confined to villainous roles. They are seen donning a variety of hats, from comedy to romance, and acing each role with finesse. Chopra praises this versatility of contemporary actors and cites Shah Rukh Khan, Aamir Khan, and Hrithik Roshan as examples. These actors have portrayed villains and bad guys in films like ‘Baazigar,’ ‘Darr,’ ‘Dhoom 3,’ and ‘Dhoom 2,’ and have done an excellent job at it.
The success of modern villains, according to Chopra, can be attributed to the nuanced writing of their characters. The audience not only sympathizes with them but also likes them. This is a significant shift from the past when villains symbolized trouble and were loathed by the audience. The development of character arcs and backstories has added depth to the villains, making them more than just troublemakers.
The Audience’s Perspective
The audience’s perspective towards villains has changed over time. Earlier, the appearance of a villain onscreen meant imminent trouble. But now, the audience looks forward to the appearance of a villain, eager to understand their motivations and backstory. This shift in perspective is a testament to the evolution of villainy in Bollywood.Chopra appreciates this evolution and commends the efforts of the actors and writers in bringing about this change. He believes that the portrayal of villains in Bollywood has matured over the years, making them more realistic and relatable
-Daisy