The next step: Model Anushka Sharma

How big can models make it on the silver screen anyway? While some have been lucky enough to grab meaty roles in the film industry, there are still quite a few models who haven’t been able to make their break yet.

Bangalore girl Anuskha Sharma,  a known face on the ramp moved to Mumbai and according to sources, she’s grabbed a role for herself opposite none other than the King Khan.

But is it easy for models to actually make their presence felt in a world that is dominated by Hrithik Roshan, Aamir Khan, Shahrukh Khan, Kareena Kapoor, Rani Mukherjee and others?

Except for Deepika Padukone who is still basking in the success of Om Shanti Om and Dino Morea who has a few films to his credit, few have actually gotten lucky!

According to Daisy Bopanna, acting was an accident that happened to her. “I wasn’t planning on being an actor. It just happened. I wanted to be a copywriter for an ad firm when I got an offer. And not all models intend on acting. There are many like Indrani Das Gupta who have been offered roles in movies but have refused. It is a little easier as modeling serves as a foundation for acting.

You’re already comfortable with the camera. The most difficult part for models is the industry’s attitude toward them. They think models have the looks and the body, but can’t act. Most models have a problem with being flexible with their expressions but they learn.

Besides, if you don’t have a godfather’s support, you’re susceptible to problems like casting couch and low remuneration. They have no issues with taking advantage of models, but nothing can be forced upon you,” she says.

Diganth, who made his debut in the film Gaalipata says, “It is difficult for most models to adapt to acting, as they are too rigid in their expressions. They know to pose but don’t know how to express emotions. It’s easier for female models, but not for males to establish themselves in the industry. In spite of getting into Bollywood, supermodels like Arjun Rampal and John Abraham haven’t made it to the level of the most sought-after actors like Shahrukh.

But although Aishwariya Rai doesn’t act as well as Preity Zinta or Rani, she is paid a lot. Men need to know how to act exceptionally well, but women can get there with their looks and dancing abilities. Acting isn’t an important pre-requisite for women,” he says.

Madhuri Bhattacharya says, “Coming from a modeling background has its own benefits and flaws. You meet the right people and have good contacts to get you started with acting. If you’re a regular person, it’s harder to get in touch with them. Most models want to act. They always get roles, and after about four or five years of modeling, they start looking at other options.

But the industry expects models to sit pretty and treat you like you have no acting skills. It doesn’t matter if you’re a model, some people can act and some can’t. I found it easier as I’ve acted in many plays while I was a student.”