Affan Waheed is making his big screen debut with Mastaani. Having already won the hearts of millions with his television performances, he’s stepping into this new challenge with confidence and excitement. In an exclusive chat with Fashion Times Magazine, Affan opened up about the experience of working in Mastaani.
Fashion Times (FT): What made you choose Mastaani as your debut film?
Affan Waheed (AF): The script! It’s a wonderfully written story and I mean it. You will find out once you watch the film on August 23.
(FT): How important is it to tell a good story?
(AF): Gone are the days when films did well based on stardom. Today, the narrative is crucial and imperative for the success of an enterprise.
(FT): Without giving away too much, can you give us a sneak peek at your role in the film?
(AF): I play Shakeel, he’s simple, assertive, wide, sensible and poised. He is a moderator for Aliya (Amna Ilyas) as she is very aggressive and impulsive. Shakeel is madly in love with Aliya and the only person who can tone her personality.
(FT): How was it working with Amna Ilyas?
(AF): She’s great and has a fantastic screen presence. She has done a great job.
(FT): Critical acclaim or box office success. What is more important for you?
(AF): Box office.
(FT): What is more challenging TV or Film?
(AF): TV is more challenging because a drama takes around eighty days or more to complete. It has certain perks but after a point, one gets bored. Film doesn’t have strings attached, you are into shooting, dubbing, promotions, so yeah film is a different medium altogether.
(FT): Do you think you’ll be exploring more acting opportunities in films?
(AF): I am already on to my next. It’s a period film set in 1940 and I am looking forward to it.
(FT): With the huge amount of excitement generated from the trailer, the expectations are high. How do you deal with that?
(AF): I don’t want to crack under the pressure, whether the film works or not. I want to enjoy the process, so I need to be in the moment.
