Kriti Sanon says films are primarily meant to entertain the audience
Pooja Sharma (HINDUSTAN TIMES; October 19, 2019)

Kriti Sanon, who has starred in quite a few comedies, feels audiences go to theatres mainly to be entertained and feel happy. And that’s what a good comedy should promise, she says.

The Bareilly Ki Barfi (2017) actor is now excited to showcase her comic timing in the upcoming Housefull 4. “It’s a franchise which I enjoyed watching. It’s got a huge audience base. I enjoy being part of comedies, because it is important and equally difficult to make people laugh. There is so much stress in everyone’s lives that a little bit of laughter is required,” the actor says. Excerpts:

Do you enjoy slapstick comedies?
I think it depends on if it is done well. I enjoy brainless, mad comedy as long as it’s done well. But, I don’t enjoy all kinds of slapstick comedies. I wouldn’t categorise this film under slapstick comedy. Yes, it’s crack and mad. There are two timelines, and there is comedy throughout. The humour and madness has increased. I wanted to be part of this fun film and huge franchise, and coming back with Sajid (Nadiadwala; producer) sir after Heropanti (2014) has been a special journey.

Was it challenging to match up to Akshay Kumar’s timing?
Both Akshay and Riteish (Deshmukh) are too good. When you see Johny (Lever) sir or Chunky (Panday), I feel all of them have done so many films in this genre that they are pros. To match up to that level is impossible, but you get to learn a lot on the set. You need to have the right timing and need to understand the rhythm of it, you need to shed inhibitions and play along.

Though mainstream entertainers are not necessarily the critics’ preferred genre, do you feel they still pull in the maximum audiences to theatres?
Entertainment is the main reason why people go to the theatres, whether a film engages you in the form of a thriller and keeps you at the edge of your seat, or is making you feel a lot of emotions in case of a love story, or makes you forget the worries of your life and have a good laugh. If comedy in general is made well, it will lighten you up. It is something we look for, and we want our moods to be lifted when we step out of theatres.

Which is your all-time favourite comedy?
It would be Andaz Apna Apna (1994). You can watch it any number of times.

Do you like movies with a message?
I don’t like preachy movies. Even if you are trying to put across a serious message, I get more attracted to films which put out a serious thought in a light manner. Otherwise, I’d rather watch a documentary.

With shoots, events and ongoing promotions how do you maintain your focus? What’s your go-to mantra to stay calm?
I think a little bit of meditation helps especially when I am travelling. I like to listen to music and concentrate on breathing. Sometimes, it is important to take a short break and be with your family. It’s like a refresh mode, which is needed. Also, don’t burden yourself if it’s a day off and don’t plan any meetings. Just stay in bed and relax.