Actor Neil Nitin Mukesh, who is waiting for the monsoon release of his latest thriller Shortcut Romeo directed by Susi Ganesh, seems optimistic that the movie will reign at the box office. Neil, who plays the lead role in the movie, has become quite a master of playing ‘anti-hero’ roles, ever since he made his debut with Johnny Gaddaar in 2007. “This time also, in Shortcut Hero, I am playing a romantic hero with a diabolical tinge, as I engage in a game of blackmailing to extort money and earn a quick buck”, says Neil
Shot in the exotic locales on Kenya with local Africans, Shortcut Romeo is adapted from a South Indian hit film, also directed by Susi Ganesh. But is it true that Neil shares a passionate kiss with co-star Puja Gupta, who sports a sexy bikini in parts of the movie? “It is true that there are a couple of cozy scenes which have been aesthetically shot,” admits Neil. “But that’s not all. Puja does appear as eye-candy a few times, but also has intense emotional scenes with my character. She is an amazing actress”, he adds.
Speaking about the constant battle of nasty wit with his svelte co-star Ameesha Patel whom he blackmails in the movie, Neil says, “That one-upmanship is actually part of the major highlights of the movie which will keep the waiting to know more. In fact Ameesha has given a controlled, classy performance exhibiting negative shades, instead of transforming into a complete vamp.
“Shortcuts can be dangerous though”, says Neil, “and that is the social message of the movie,” he adds, referring to the recent IPL controversy. He, however, advises viewers that Shortcut Romeo is not like most Bollywood movies, where you are advised to leave your brain at home. “This is a mind-boggling entertainer and you better be alert right through,” he says.