The year 2003 saw the emergence of a new face in Bollywood—one that would become synonymous with a distinctive allure and bravado. Former supermodel John Abraham ventured into the cinematic world with his debut in the movie Jism, directed by Pooja Bhatt. Despite being an unconventional lead, he left an indelible mark with this first outing.
Jism, a steamy romantic thriller, won critical acclaim and commercial success, catapulting both John and his co-star, Bipasha Basu, to fame. However, the ride was not smooth for John as the initial glory slowly waned. A series of films that followed, including Saaya, Paap, Aetbaar, and Lakeer, not only failed to impress audiences but also limited him to a certain typecast role.
Everything changed in 2004, when John Abraham leapt into a role that would redefine his standing in Bollywood. The film ‘Dhoom’, directed by Sanjay Gadhvi and produced by Aditya Chopra under the Yash Raj Films banner, became an unexpected life raft for his then-flagging career. The high-octane action thriller featured John as the stylish antagonist, Kabir, and despite his negative character, his performance drew widespread acclaim. His co-stars, Abhishek Bachchan, playing the protagonist ACP Jai Dixit, and Uday Chopra, in a supporting role, brought additional star power to the film. Dhoom’s success not only revived John’s career but also ushered in a new era of action films in Bollywood.
The fiscal figures were equally impressive. With a budget of around Rs 11 crores, Dhoom roared at the box office, amassing a stupendous Rs 77 crores worldwide. It wasn’t just a hit; it was a sensation that sparked the beginning of a lucrative movie franchise.
Before this triumphant turn for John, Bollywood bigwigs Salman Khan and Sanjay Dutt were the initial considerations for the role of Kabir. Salman was the first choice but turned down the film for reasons that remain undisclosed. The offer then went to Sanjay Dutt, who initially seemed interested but eventually passed on the opportunity. Dino Morea, another contender, also expressed his interest in the role but found that John was already secured for the part.
Post-Dhoom, John Abraham’s career trajectory took a soaring flight. He found success with a variety of roles in films such as Garam Masala, Dostana, New York, Race 2, Shootout At Wadala, Madras Cafe, Houseful 2, Parmanu, Satyameva Jayate, Batla House, and the recent blockbuster Pathaan. John’s future projects include Vedaa, The Diplomat, and Tehran, signaling his continued presence and evolution in the industry.
As a testament to John Abraham’s talent and the dynamic nature of Bollywood, his story underscores the unpredictability of movie stardom and the impact a single film can have on an actor’s career. ‘Dhoom’ didn’t just break the string of flops for John; it set a new rhythm to his Bollywood journey, turning him into an enduring star.
For film enthusiasts and readers who are constantly on the lookout for such stories of cinematic success and the ebb and flow of stardom, there’s an opportunity to engage further. The DNA App brings these stories and more, providing a platform for users to discover, engage, and provide feedback on an array of content. This digital avenue is another way for fans to stay connected with the ever-evolving world of films and the stars that shine within it.
