Bollywood films are a lot of fun: Hilary Swank

It took actor Anil Kapoor and a little persuasion from the IIFA organisers to get Hollywood actor Hilary Swank on board for the awards night in Toronto. According to sources, Swank responded with enthusiasm the moment the first request mail landed in her inbox.

“Hilary said yes at the first go. Though Anil helped us a lot as he knew all the right people to get through to her,” says a member of the organising committee.

Swank seemed all too thrilled to be in Toronto, saying that cinema can be a  binding force between countries. “Both India and Toronto have a special place in my heart. I am too happy to be here. I just love the films that you guys make and that’s the reason why I wanted to be a part of this function. It’s a kind of a new experience for me,” said Swank, who won the audiences hearts with her greetings, “Namaste Toronto! Namaste India! Namaste world!”

The actress has won two Oscars — as Brandon Teena, a transman in Boys Don’t Cry (1999) and as struggling waitress-turned-boxer, Maggie Fitzgerald, in Million Dollar Baby (2004).
The actress said that she believes that there is a meeting point between Hollywood and Bollywood.

“I think Indian cinema and Hollywood will bring people together. Bollywood has been bringing two worlds together. It’s a great thing. I believe in the motto of one world, one people. India has always held a very special place in my heart,” said Swank, as she gave away the best actor award to actor Shah Rukh Khan. The actor in turn kissed her hand and said, “I love the way you say Namaste... it will be a fond memory”

The actress says that she doesn’t discriminate when it comes to cinema — she likes everything. “I love all kinds of cinema and from all countries. I think Bollywood films are a lot of fun and are passionate,” she adds.