14 February,2013 07:51 AM IST | | PTI
After making his debut with 'Monsoon Wedding' in 2001, Randeep had to wait till 'Once Upon A Time In Mumbaai' (2010) to hit the big time as the films in between did not work. The 36-year-old actor is currently shooting with Rani Mukherjee for Karan Johar's short film for the project 'Bombay Talkies' and 'Ungli' directed by Rensil D'Silva.u00a0
"I am in the middle of shooting for the short film with Karan Johar. I am doing double shifts, for this film and 'Ungli' directed by Rensil D'Silva and produced by Karan. "These days alongwith the Bhatts I am also an integral part of Dharma productions, they know where I am 24X7.
It's a bit tiring, but I sat at home too long to be tired with the fatigue of hard work," Randeep told PTI. The actor, known for intense roles in films like 'Saheb Biwi Aur Gangster' and 'Jism 2', says he is happy with the films being offered to him these days. "Maybe there aren't enough actors with enough depth in our industry, that's why I get all these roles.
I am very happy, I enjoy doing these roles. I like roles where I have some meaningful interaction with the material and with myself. "I think there are a few actors of my generation who have the unique combination that I have, and I would like to play on my USP," he said.
Being offered more mainstream commercial films now, Randeep said his recent box office successes has increased the range of projects being offered to him.
"With 'Once Upon a Time...' my career got resurrected and then 'Saheb Biwi...' happened. But 'Jannat 2' and 'Jism 2' helped me achieve commercial success. My last six films have been successful, whatever part I may have played in them. That has become a big casting factor, though I get cast more for my acting abilities than my standing at the box office."
The actor will next been seen playing a photographer in 'Murder 3', alongside Aditi Rao Hydari and Pakistani actress Sara Loren. The film, directed by debutante Vishesh Bhatt, will hit theatres this Friday. "The story is about live-in relationships and trust issues. It is a very interesting take on how, in today's age, monogamy is not the only option, or whether we are even meant for monogamy," said Randeep.
It is a remake of Spanish movie 'The Hidden Face' and Randeep said the film has been adapted beautifully for the Indian audiences. "It is very much in sync with the problems in relationships today and it unfolds at a brisk, impactful crime thriller format, which is very engaging. It's not just about a man-woman relationship. Vishesh has adapted the film to our requirements wonderfully."
The previous films in the 'Murder' franchise, starring Emraan Hashmi, have been big hits and Randeep said the third film won't disappoint.
"Murder 3 will meet the expectations. The mainstay of the series has been great stories and great music. Murder series makes stars and not the other way around. So I am hoping we three become stars after February 15," said Randeep.u00a0