"Lagaan changed direction of my life": Hollywood actor Paul Blackthorne recalls success of movie
Mumbai, June 14
Actor Paul Blackthorne, who played the role of Captain Andrew Russell in the film 'Lagaan', recalled the major contribution of the movie in his life.
Lagaan is all set to mark 25 years since its release. To celebrate the occasion, a special screening was held in Mumbai on Friday evening, where the entire cast of the film gathered, stirring a nostalgic emotion.
Talking with ANI, Blackthorne said that Lagaan's success changed his life as he started landing multiple roles in Hollywood and gained fame in the cinema industry.
"Lagaan changed the direction of my life because it was nominated for the best foreign language category, as it was then, at the Oscars in 2002. I ended up living in Los Angeles for the next 20 years. So it had a major effect on my life, and I was very fortunate to do a lot of American television and film after that. It was all a result of Lagaan and the way it landed in Hollywood."
The actor was also all praise for his co-star Aamir Khan, calling him "one of the greatest humans" he has ever met in his life.
"Truly great. I mean, truly one of the greatest humans I've ever met and known and been in the presence of. He sort of just transcends everything. He has a way of doing things right and I admire him hugely."
The special screening of the film was held in Mumbai on Friday, which was attended by Aamir Khan, Kiran Rao, Ashutosh Gowarikar and others. English actor Paul Blackthorne stole the spotlight with his stylish appearance on the red carpet.
Dressed in a stylish avatar, Blackthorne was sporting a blue shirt paired with grey trousers and a brown cap. He made a rare public appearance, drawing attention from fans and photographers alike.
The actor greeted attendees warmly and appeared delighted to be part of the milestone celebration.
Set in 1893, during the late Victorian period of British colonial rule in India, the film follows the inhabitants of a village in Central India, who, burdened by high taxes and several years of drought, are challenged by an arrogant British Indian Army officer to a game of cricket as a wager to avoid paying the taxes they owe. The villagers face the arduous task of learning a game that is alien to them and playing for victory.'
'Lagaan' was screened at numerous international film festivals and garnered accolades. At the 49th National Film Awards, the film won eight awards, including Best Popular Film.
The movie was released in 2001. It was directed by Ashutosh Gowarikar. To celebrate 25 years completion of the film, the makers re-released the movie in theatres on June 12, 13 and 14.
— ANI
Reader Comments
I'm American but I studied abroad in India and Lagaan was the first Bollywood film I ever saw. It's incredible how a movie about cricket, which I barely understood, could make me cry tears of joy. Paul's story is so heartwarming – goes to show how art transcends borders. 🌏
Paul Blackthorne's humility is remarkable. It takes a big person to publicly credit a foreign film for launching your Hollywood career. And his praise for Aamir Khan? Absolutely spot on. Aamir is that rare star who combines art with integrity. Lagaan will forever be a masterpiece that shows the world what Indian cinema can achieve.
Honestly, the re-release timing is perfect – nostalgia hitting hard. But I wish they'd remastered the audio or added subtitles for the younger generation. Still, watching it on the big screen after 25 years is a privilege. And yes, Paul Blackthorne as Captain Russell remains one of the best British antagonists in Indian cinema! 😄
Lagaan was the first film that made me feel proud of being Indian. The story of a village taking on the British Empire through a game – pure genius. Paul's journey from that film to Hollywood is inspiring. But I also hope we see more such collaborations where Indian stories get global recognition. And can we talk about the music? Rahman sir, you are a legend! 🎶
I was in school when Lagaan released – we bunked classes to watch it! Paul Blackthorne's role was so convincing that we all hated him in the first half and then cheered
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