Ali Hassan's Emotional Journey from TV to Border 2 with Sunny Deol
Actor Ali Hassan, who portrays the chief antagonist in the highly anticipated war film 'Border 2', has shared heartfelt insights into the emotional significance of reuniting with legendary star Sunny Deol after more than a decade. For Hassan, this project represents not just a major leap from television to the big screen, but a profound personal milestone that feels like destiny coming full circle.
Intimidating Yet Exhilarating: Stepping into a Legendary Franchise
Hassan described the experience of joining the iconic 'Border' franchise as both intimidating and exhilarating, given its massive scale and legacy. In an exclusive interview with Mid-Day, he expressed deep gratitude for the opportunity to work opposite a cinematic icon. "I was very fortunate that I got to be a part of this amazing project, 'Border 2'," Hassan stated, emphasizing the rarity of such high-profile roles.
He did not hold back in crediting Sunny Deol as the driving force behind the franchise's enduring success. "Of course it was an ensemble cast and I won't deny they were amazing too. But if it wasn't for Sunny Deol, 'Border' wouldn't have been a franchise," Hassan acknowledged, highlighting Deol's pivotal role in building the series' reputation.
Overwhelming Experience: Sharing the Frame with a Childhood Hero
Having grown up watching Sunny Deol's films, Hassan admitted that acting alongside him was an overwhelming experience. "I've grown up watching him and his films. To just be in the same frame as him wasn't easy," he confessed. The actor revealed that during scenes, he would often become so mesmerized by Deol's presence that he would forget his lines. "I used to keep looking at him. I used to forget what I had to do in the scene and just admire him while we performed together," Hassan admitted with a laugh.
Portraying the main antagonist opposite Deol was particularly surreal for Hassan. "And then again, to be cast opposite him as an antagonist, which makes me the main antagonist of 'Border 2', was like a dream come true. I don't think many people can say that, although I've done two movies before," he reflected.
Intense Physical Demands and Stunt Work
The role demanded significant physical effort, which Hassan embraced wholeheartedly. "The role was very hectic. But it was great," he said, proudly noting that he performed all his own stunts without a double. "Let me tell you, all the action that you see in the film, everything, I did not use a stunt double. It was done all by me. And the experience has been beyond words for me."
From Doubt to Stunning Reception
Coming primarily from a television background, Hassan initially questioned whether he was the right fit for such a massive film. "I'm open about the fact that I have only been in television. I've not even approached much on the movie side. So when they thought of me, I was thrilled and excited. But frankly speaking, I was very sceptical," he recalled.
When producers told him, "Ali, you're the central antagonist," he laughed and responded, "I said, okay, I'll take your word for it." The overwhelming public response after the film's release left him stunned. "The kind of reaction I got from people, the kind of love messages I got... I was like, 'Whoa. This is something else. This is unreal.' I was shivering for two days," Hassan shared, visibly moved by the reception.
A Full-Circle Moment: From CID to Border 2
Hassan revealed a touching anecdote that makes his reunion with Sunny Deol even more meaningful. Twelve years ago, when Deol appeared on the popular TV show 'CID' for promotions, Hassan happened to play the villain in that very episode. "Twelve years back, Sunny paaji had come on 'CID' for promotion, and guess who was the villain in that particular episode? It was me," he said with a smile.
Reflecting on their reunion, Hassan added, "It was not the first time that I met him. I worked with him then also. And ten years later I am working with him in the biggest war franchise ever." When Hassan reminded Deol of their previous collaboration, the veteran star's warm reaction touched him deeply. "When I showed it to him, he was like, 'How many years have passed? Twelve years have passed. When are you coming back?' He was a gem of a person back then and now too," Hassan recalled fondly.
This journey from television to one of Bollywood's most anticipated films, culminating in a heartfelt reunion with a cinematic legend, marks a significant chapter in Ali Hassan's career—one that he describes as nothing short of magical.
