Acclaimed actor Manoj Bajpayee reveals his enthusiasm for the newly minted plot of Netflix’s latest black comedy ‘Killer Soup’, as he shares behind-the-scenes insights along with the challenges of capturing the unique tonality of his character.
With the Indian entertainment industry buzzing with an array of content, it takes a significant narrative to catch the attention of a seasoned actor like Manoj Bajpayee. Known for his discerning eye for quality and path-breaking roles, Bajpayee was invigorated when he came across the script for ‘Killer Soup’. The conversation around the project initially brewed on the sets of ‘Ray’ (2021), during filming of the segment ‘Hungama Hai Kyon Barpa’, when director Abhishek Chaubey mentioned his series plans to Bajpayee. Without hesitation, the actor was inwardly on board, fully trusting Chaubey’s knack for the unconventional.
‘Killer Soup’ marks Chaubey’s web series debut, a twisted tale breathing life into Netflix’s roster. The black comedy unfolds around the devious machinations of Konkona Sensharma’s character, who meticulously orchestrates her husband’s demise and replaces him with a doppelgänger of her lover, both roles portrayed by Bajpayee. Yet, despite the gripping premise, the creative duo found themselves navigating a sea of uncertainties, particularly regarding the execution and believability of Bajpayee’s high-stakes characters.
Reflecting on his performances in ‘The Wolf of Wall Street’ and ‘Satya’, Manoj Bajpayee deliberated the challenge of maintaining authenticity in a character that demands a heightened pitch. The over-the-top engagement worried him in the context of OTT platforms, which tend to amplify intimacy and realism. Nevertheless, with Chaubey’s avant-garde approach and reassurance, the project transformed into a refreshing experience for the veteran actor. Chaubey encouraged a less constrained direction, allowing Bajpayee to push boundaries, creating something both considered ‘fantastic’.
The collaboration between Manoj Bajpayee and Abhishek Chaubey is no new joint venture; they have worked together on projects like ‘Sonchiriya’ (2019) and ‘Ray’. The addition of Konkona Sensharma to the cast only intensified Bajpayee’s excitement – an actress he has long admired and found captivating since films like ‘A Death in the Gunj’ (2016). As more esteemed actors joined the lineup, ‘Killer Soup’ promised a multi-faceted narrative, brimming with talent and intrigue.
Bajpayee has been serving a variety of roles to his audience, from “The Family Man” to the recent “Sirf Ek Bandaa Kaafi Hai” (2023) and “Joram” (2023), continually showcasing his versatility. Staying true to his quest for the exceptional, he concedes how seldom scripts surprise him; it’s a rare instance when a script captivates him within the first 30 pages, likening the experience to the engrossment of a good novel that preoccupies his mind even during mundane activities. The portrayal of dual characters in ‘Killer Soup’ became that striking exception, promising viewers an enthralling journey through its dark humor and ingenious storytelling.
As audiences eagerly await the release of ‘Killer Soup’, they can anticipate Manoj Bajpayee’s masterful portrayal, intensifying the genre of black comedy with his unparalleled artistry. Both on-screen and off, Bajpayee and Chaubey’s partnership continues to redefine the landscape of Indian web series, serving up a darkly delicious concoction likely to be savored by viewers globally.
