On Wednesday, as shoots ground to a halt in the city, it was ironically a new beginning for Arjun Kapoor. He winged his way to Goa to kick off Ek Villain Returns, which also features John Abraham, Disha Patani and Tara Sutaria. After bringing on the laughs in Bhoot Police and Sardar Ka Grandson, it is time for Kapoor to delve into his intense side, and he is glad to navigate the complex character under the watchful eyes of director Mohit Suri.

The actor has been looking forward to reuniting with the filmmaker since Half Girlfriend (2017). “I always tell my friends and family that apart from Aditya Chopra who believed in me, I know Mohit has always had faith in me. When I work with him, I [look forward] to keeping my head down and simply learning from him. He is a mainstream filmmaker who offers [creative freedom] to his actors. That balance is important for me,” says Kapoor, who came on board the sequel to the 2014 hit after Aditya Roy Kapur dropped out. 

According to the actor, Suri not only has a knack for crafting thrillers, but also has a keen ear for music. “I am excited to see the kind of music he will give me. I have been fortunate [to have brilliant music] in Ishaqzaade [2012] and 2 States [2014], but Half Girlfriend’s album was on a different level, be it Baarish or Phir Bhi Tumko Chahunga.”