Actor Jonita Doda on her new film 'Heer Unstoppable' and wearing the director's hat
This International Women’s Day was the perfect setting for actor Jonita Doda to talk about her forthcoming film, ‘Heer Unstoppable’ in Chandigarh. Incidentally, Doda, who is now based in Mumbai, is also directing the film being made under the banner of Playground Digital Cinema. “It so happened that when I was discussing some story ideas with my producers and family, it was my mom who suggested this story,” informs Doda.
‘Heer Unstoppable’, as Doda explains, takes up the cause of young Punjabi brides who are married off to NRIs with the hope of leading a better life but instead have to face the stark reality of hardships, deprivation and abuse. Doda, who plays the lead character of Heer, says she narrated the story with such conviction to her producers that they felt she should direct it as well. “It is not easy to be both in front of and behind the camera. A director’s role never ends and while I did find it very taxing, I thoroughly enjoyed it,” says the actor.
Having previously acted in Punjabi films like ‘Yamley Jatt Yamley’ (2012), ‘Yaara O Dildara’ (2011) and ‘Chak Jawana’ (2010), Jonita feels the Punjabi film industry is more accepting to different genres and mediums now. “‘Heer Unstoppable’ is going to be short film of 30 minutes and we will release it online. Even though the story takes up an important issue, I have made it like a commercial film with a positive message, true to its title,” said Jonita who is currently shooting in and around Chandigarh.
The film which also stars Arshdeep Singh will see actor Neena Bundhel (Yograj Singh’s wife) make a comeback to Punjabi cinema after 17 years. “I will essay the role of Heer’s mother, a strong protagonist in the film,” said Neena who was also present at a meet-the-press function. “I have done more than 20 films but took a break for my family. I was really excited about facing the camera again,” said Meena.
‘Heer Unstoppable’ will also be formally released and screened at the Punjabi International Film Festival in Toronto later this year.
