Comedy isn't my forte: Aftab Shivdasani

Mumbai, Feb 13 (IANS) Aftab Shivdasani has starred in hit comedies like "Masti", "Love Ke Liye Kuch Bhi Karega" and "Hungama", but says comedy is not his favourite genre.

"It's a misconception that comedy is my favourite genre. No, it's not. It's just that I am most comfortable with doing comedy. Also, it is a safer genre", said Aftab who would be beginning 2009 with the comedy "Aloo Chaat".

His continued presence in thrillers and dramatic movies like "Kasoor", "Pyaasa", "Footpath", "Jaane Hoga Kya", "Red" and "Speed" does indicate his affinity towards the darker side of things as well.

"That's true, I actually love thrillers. Give me an intense love story and I would love to do that. And why just a love story or a thriller? I would be happy doing a full-on action flick as well", Aftab told IANS. His upcoming films like "Acid Factory" and "Kambakht Ishq" have a fair dose of action as well.

Aftab, who is looking at a busy year ahead with yet another comedy, "Daddy Cool", being one of his four major releases, wants himself to be considered as a versatile actor.

"As an actor, I like doing different things and this is the reason why I keep juggling around with genres. Though both my releases of 2008, 'Money Hai Toh Honey Hai' and 'De Taali', were comedies, a year before that there was quite some variety in the form of 'Speed', 'Life Mein Kabhie Kabhiee', 'Red' and a short story in 'Dus Kahaniyaan'", said Aftab.

However, for the moment he is looking forward to the release of "Aloo Chaat", which is directed by Robby Grewal, who has earlier made "Samay - When Time Strikes" and "Mera Pehla Pehla Pyaar".

"'Aloo Chaat' is a good film to be a part of", he said. "It is a very clean family entertainer. A fun film, it is quite character-driven. In fact, I can assure that you can take your entire family along without feeling awkward even once during the screening. It is a perfect recipe for feel good cinema. Robby has really made the film quite well and I am very much looking forward to the audience response."

All set to release March 13, "Aloo Chaat" stars popular TV actress Aamna Shariff and Linda Arsenio as Aftab's leading ladies.

Also starring Kulbhushan Kharbanda, Manoj Pahwa and Sanjay Mishra in principal roles, "Aloo Chaat" should see a start in its satellite and web promotions by the coming weekend.

Aftab Shivdasani Pictures