I’m beginning from zero again: Koena Mitra

Koena Mitra’s just returned from her two-month stint in Los Angeles and she can’t wait to go back already. And for a good reason too. Her kitty of films is now slowly bulking up with not one, but three international projects including one in which she’s playing a Spanish gypsy and a Brazilian in another.

Glad with the turn of events in Hollywood, the actor’s excitement washes over the tiredness of her jet-lag, as she says, “LA was amazing. The kind of love, affection and respect we Bollywood stars get there is unbelievable.”

Though Koena admits that Hollywood is a reality and also priority for her now, she also confesses that she had never chased the Hollywood dream. “Things have always fallen into place for me, whether it was entering Bollywood or now bagging films in Hollywood.”

Recalling her big switch to LA, she says, “I had decided to take a week’s trip there and gone with zero expectations. I was surprised that my week’s stay lasted for two months and three films.” She does agree though that it’s a lot of hard work here.
Bollywood spoils its stars and pampers them silly. Hollywood’s proving to be a reality check for sure. And I’m beginning from point zero in Hollywood but it’s been a good start.”

What worked in her favour there, feels Koena, are the exact same things that did not work for her back home. “My height and complexion all made me far more flexible in the roles. I wasn’t slotted only for Indian roles that come only far and in-between.

Though I’m very proud of being an Indian, I was often mistaken for a Latina there and I did not mind that at all,” she laughs.
On a serious note, she adds, “It’s difficult to not get typecast in Bollywood. But there it’s a different story altogether. People are far less judgemental about you and are willing to take risks with roles.” So does Bollywood take a backseat? “Till filmmakers here don’t come up with a substantial role for me, yes. Hollywood is certainly priority for now.” She’s also happy with the kind of roles coming her way.

Though not ready to divulge much details on her other films she reveals that in one of the Hollywood films, she will be playing an Indian girl. “That’s based on a real life incident and it’s a beautiful role,” she says.