British model Amy Jackson, winner of Miss Liverpool 2010, started her acting career with Madraspattinam, a Tamil period drama. Now, she's ready for her Bollywood debut in Gautham Menon's, Ekk Deewana Tha. This romantic story has Jackson playing Jesse opposite Prateik.
On Playing Jesse
"Prior to shooting of the film, we had a workshop where Prateik and I got familiar with each other.
Playing Jesse was a major challenge. This is the first time I am playing an Indian girl. So, the role called for a change in my style, mannerisms and speech. For a month I wore Indian clothes in order to be comfortable in them during shoots. I had to wear brown contacts as well which was another thing I had to get used to. The dialogue in a new language was a big hurdle. We had to work on every scene, as this is a performance-oriented role with the climax scene an emotional one. We put in long hours of hard work and as we progressed, it became easier.
My personal favourite is the Taj Mahal scene. It was my first visit to Agra."
Working with Gautham
"He is absolutely fantastic. On the sets, Gautham made me feel comfortable. The working atmosphere is relaxed. There was no pressure or awkwardness during shooting, which helped while approaching every scene."
On Prateik
"I have seen Dhobi Ghat. Prateik's performance was good. He is talented and super dedicated. It's a great opportunity to work with him on my debut. As co-stars, we had a good time."
Memories of Madraspattinam
"I was 17 when I started work on Madraspattinam. Besides being a fresher to the industry, I was in a new country and in an alien culture. I had enjoyed my modelling career and now wondered if I would enjoy acting. Madraspattinam sealed my doubts. I now look forward to more challenges."
What's next
"I am working currently with Vijay on his next film, Thaandavam, opposite Vikram. I play this girl who is half Indian and half American and has grown up in the US. It's an action thriller with a bit of everything."
Mythily Ramachandran is an independent journalist from Chennai, India.
