Tell us about your roots in the arts. Where did your earliest influence in performing come from and did you always know you wanted to become an actor?

I’ve always had a keen interest in the arts. I have a double major in finance and art, with a minor in psychology. My concentration was sculpting with clay and metal as a medium. However, as far as performing or acting is concerned, it’s something I never envisioned myself doing. I think it was just a way of pursuing my late sister’s dream. She was a director and was intent on getting involved with films. I started working behind the camera and did a few commercials, which were followed by offers to act. One thing led to another and the rest is history. You’re a trained visual effects director from Franklin & Marshall College.

Pakistan’s favourite heartthrob returns on a magazine cover after two years to spill the beans on his highly anticipated project, Superstar, and his life off camera. Dive into our pages to read Bilal’s exclusive chat with Mehek Raza Rizvi

Do you find yourself being finical about how your scenes are executed?

Not really. I don’t believe in interfering in someone else’s creative process. The best results are produced when everyone is trusted to do their job right. The director and his team know best. I will only ever give my input if I’m asked for feedback or advice. As far as finding an outlet to unleash my creativity is concerned, I’ll do it with my own production, which I’ll be able to speak more about soon.

The strong impression you made with Janaan in 2016 was preceded by a cameo in 021 that didn’t get you the same kind of attention. How did you stay steadfast in an industry that was still growing?

021 was a project I did without putting in too much thought. I wasn’t trying to achieve anything specific with that cameo. Janaan, on the other hand, came my way while I was already working on Yalghaar and had started taking my career as an actor more seriously. It offered me a great story, script and team to work with, despite being a small production.  I credit its success to good intent. The whole team of Janaan poured out their hearts and souls into delivering the best they had and I guess that’s what eventually makes a film truly special. However, the movie business is tricky. You can never be sure of what does well at the box office eventually. You just have to give your best shot and pray everything goes well.

As far as performing or acting is concerned, it’s something I never envisioned myself doing. I think it was just a way of pursuing my late sister’s dream

From 021 to Momina Duraid’s Superstar, how has Bilal Ashraf evolved over the course of five movies?

Superstar promises its audience a complete package. People will see sides of me as a performer that they haven’t before. They’ve seen me do action and other serious roles, but this is the first time I’m dancing in a movie. It’s also the first time I’m playing a complete romantic.

Preparing for Superstar has been a phenomenal journey, primarily because Mahira Khan and I were sent for theatrical training in London. I’ve learnt some great new techniques, but applying them to the script proved to be challenging. We work in an environment where using foreign techniques means they need to be altered to suit the script so there’s extra effort required. I feel that helped me grow a lot as an actor. Everyone’s excited to see you and Mahira sharing screen space. Tell us more about the film.

I wish I could reveal more about the film, but at this point I can only assure you that everyone involved—from the spot boys to the actors—is giving their hundred percent. We’re working relentlessly to make this an unforgettable movie and hopefully people will be able to see that.

Once on a flight to London, a girl created a scene because she wanted to sit next to me but the seat was occupied by an eldery man who refused to move

We hear you’ve been working really hard at the gym recently. Why is fitness important to you?

Fitness should be important to everyone. A healthy lifestyle is crucial to a fulfilling life. Having said that, I’m working extra hard at the gym because it’s a requirement for my role in Superstar. I felt having a fitter form would add more layers to the character I’m playing. I was already training before the movie was offered to me, but tweaked my fitness plan further after everything was finalised with Momina. It’s all part of the phenomenal journey of Superstar I mentioned earlier.

“It’s a widespread notion that being vulnerable is a feminine trait—I think that mindset needs to be altered”

How taxing is it to be a public figure in the world of social media? Do you ever feel the pressure?

The pressures of social media are manageable. It’s really in your control as to how much of your life you want to put out on Instagram or Twitter, or how seriously you take trolling. It’s true that negative comments can be overwhelming sometimes, but I accept it as part of being a public figure. Social media is a great tool to communicate with your audience, but at the end of the day it’s really just your body of work that matters. That’s what I try to focus on.

Preparing for Superstar has been a phenomenal journey, primarily because Mahira Khan and I were sent for theatrical training in London

We’re living in the age of change. As an individual of influence, how important do you think is it to reconstruct the cultural ideal of manliness into a more progressive model? What are the necessary steps to be taken?

It’s a widespread notion that being vulnerable is a feminine trait, I think that mindset needs to be altered. Men can demonstrate their feelings, they can cry, and it won’t make them any less of a man. The cultural ideal of manliness is definitely flawed, it doesn’t allow one to be human.

You’ve hardly ever spoken about your personal life. Tell us about your family and childhood.

I do try keeping my personal life away from the public eye, because I feel that’s my space of sanity. My personal life is extremely different from my professional life, although sometimes they do cross over into each other.

At home, I’m mostly found chilling with family and close friends, or indulging in sports. I grew up in Karachi, but spent a lot of my childhood years in London. I don’t remember being a studious child at all, in fact I was always getting into trouble for skipping classes to play sports.

Is marriage on the cards?

Of course. I’m a firm believer in the institution of marriage. I think it’s a natural way of life and everyone wants to settle down with the right person, so do I.

“My personal life is extremely different from my professional life, although sometimes they do cross over into each other”

It’s a widespread notion that being vulnerable is a feminine trait—I think that mindset needs to be altered

SHORT & SWEET

Worst thing about being in the limelight?

Your life is not yours at times.

Attention from the girls: love it or shy away?

Everyone likes attention, but sometimes I don’t know how to react and tend to get shy.

Craziest fan story?

Once on a flight to London, a girl created a scene because she wanted to sit next to me but the seat was occupied by an eldery man who refused to move.

What are the first things you notice about the opposite gender?

Hair and eyes

Who according to you are the best looking actors in the country?

I think Mikaal Zulfiqar is a good looking man.

Favourite co-actor?

Gohar Rasheed. It’s always fun when he’s around.

An actor you consider competition?

Not being diplomatic, but no one. I only consider myself competition.

“My personal life is extremely different from my professional life, although sometimes they do cross over into each other”

Favourite project so far?

Janaan and Superstar

Guilty pleasure?

These days it has to be food, since I’m on a perpetual diet. Chocolate, a good burger or steak.

Favourite song?

Phool Khil Jayien from Rangreza, sung by Abida Parveen & Asrar Shah

Describe your personal style.

Casual and relaxed

Biggest pet peeves?

Greeting people at your convenience.

A habit of yours that annoys your family?

Currently, my obsession with eating clean. Separate meals need to be prepared for me.

Do you have pets?

Yes, a wild cat that just decided to claim territory in my house.

Share your resolution for 2019.

Staying fit

Tell us about yourself.

I find it challenging to define myself in a few lines—there is so much more to me than just words. I was born in Fairfax, Virginia where I had the opportunity to observe diverse cultures. After high school, I moved to Pakistan and enrolled at  SZABIST, graduating as a gold medalist in Psychology. I’m an avid fan of horror and thoroughly enjoy acting and modelling.

Meet Haider Rifaat, an emerging model, web talk show host, and upcoming actor. The twenty-three-year old go-getter who is ready to embrace Pakistan’s thriving movie industry speaks to Hannan R. Hussain about his aspirations

Describe yourself in three words

Compassionate, loving and dedicated.

You created a web talk show titled The Haider Rifaat Show. How did this journey commence?

I learned the art of video making from my brother Moosa, when I was eleven. I started my YouTube channel in 2010 and uploaded fan made trailers of movies, television shows and rendered a couple voice-overs. Eventually, I decided to produce my own content, but had no knowledge of a tripod. Instead, I used creative means (like making use of a table) to record videos.

As I grew older and ventured into print journalism, I realised that it would be a great idea to have my own talk show on YouTube. If I think about accomplishing something professionally, I try my best to bring it to life. The Haider Rifaat Show was exactly that. My basic training in video editing came in handy as I created a web talk show that encompassed celebrity interviews, politics, entertainment, fashion and global news.

From script writing, editing, production, camera work and hosting, you seem to handle every element of the show on your own. What is the key to unlocking this balance?

I seek perfection in everything I do and leave no room for error. Yes, multitasking can drain you, but it is worth it.

When you are passionate about something, nothing is challenging. The key is determination, confidence and vigour. These qualities have enabled me to give the best to my work, be it acting or hosting. There is a stark difference between setting a goal and achieving it. I endeavour to achieve, and not procrastinate.

It takes time to rise to the forefront in theatre. What motivated you to hang on to your passion for acting?

Patience. I have done quite a few stage plays but they never constrained me acting wise. I was fortunate to have had screen experience well before my theatre days. Some may transition from theatre to screen but my case was different. I learned the techniques and methods to play with the camera at a tender age.

I feel failure has taught me a lot as well. Rejection motivated me to work harder and see things for what they were. One opportunity led to another, and things started transpiring on their own. I owe a lot to my supportive family, especially my mother, and God for all that I have accomplished so far.

Tell us more about your upcoming movie 24 Hours.

24 Hours is my feature film debut. The movie centers on human trafficking and I play a helpless victim in my supporting role. My character is powerful and important to the storyline. People will be able to relate to my character, especially the victims of trafficking violence. I’m certain that this project is going to be a turning point in my acting career and I’m thankful to the director, Sharf ul Murtaza Zaidi, for having faith in me.

Apart from 24 Hours, which other projects are in the pipeline?

I just wrapped up a drama serial titled Kiran for PTV Home that will premiere soon. It is about ambitious transgender individuals. I’m also writing my first book.

How do you prepare for a performance?

I just visualise myself in a situation and become that character. It is an inherent trait but I have to keep working on it. I try to keep my performances as natural as possible to evoke an equally realistic response from the audience.

If there was one role you could play in the future, what would it be and why?

I find a negative character very appealing. There is more margin for acting and an element of mystery. The compelling presence of an antagonist adds more depth to a story and makes it interesting.

How has the experience of interviewing some of Pakistan’s biggest public figures been like?

It’s been a game changer. I never thought I would get to interview renowned celebrities, journalists, anchors and politicians at such a young age. My experience has been fun and riveting because you get to share common ground with different people. Celebrities have their individual struggles that make them unique.

Describe a weekend in the company of Haider Rifaat.

I’m outgoing, so I spend most of my weekends exploring new places. I enjoy a good walk, exercising, shopping and watching mystery television shows and movies with family.

Who is your source of strength?

My mother. She is an extraordinary woman and a force to reckon with. She has a solution for everything and has been by my side in the darkest of hours. She’s been through very tough times herself, yet is always positive and determined to make everyone around her happy. I can share absolutely anything with her. She is my lifeline.

Where do you see yourself in 10 years?

Conquering the entertainment industry.

For all young people endeavouring to juggle their various passions, what advice do you have?

You can’t depend on anyone else but yourself. I created my own talk show from scratch to be in front of the camera. My willpower allowed that idea to blossom sooner than expected.

It’s also important to learn from your past mistakes, improve and grow. Don’t follow the crowd. It’s important to stand out in whatever you do.

The advent of social media and rapid advancements in technology have altered the landscape for traditional advertising. As an ad filmmaker, how do you keep up? 

Keeping up with the change in advertising means adapting to new technology, production equipment and latest cinematic techniques. I’m liable as a filmmaker to stay updated with these trends to ensure I deliver quality content. It doesn’t matter to me whether my film is being published online or broadcasted over conventional platforms. What matters is achieving excellent standards and embracing good concepts—these could be my brainchild or come in the form of a collaboration. The creative process allows me to push my limits.

In your field, what are the most important skills required to stay on top of the game? 

While it’s absouletly true that there’s no success without hardwork, commitment and dedication,  the one thing that gets you through it all is faith—in your self and the divine power. This may sound clichéd, but my belief in God has made the unthinkable possible. Strong knowledge, staying up to date with the latest and the best and knowing your domain propels you to reach your goals. However, it’s your faith that ultimately gives you the strength to push yourself to that point.

Out of the vast array of ad campaigns you’ve produced, which ones stand out as the closest to your heart and why? 

As I mentioned before, I embrace good concepts. There are several films close to my heart but they’re special due to their own unique aspects and every film has some.

My latest commercial was for Mughal Steel, an industrial product with a technical application. This may seem like a product that’s hard to put out there in an exciting fashion, but challenges like this are exactly what make my job so much fun. We decided to focus on the structural integrity of the product, instead of boasting other physical properties (like withstanding tons of weight), combined it with a relatable and humorous script and a stellar star cast. The ad film was a success the instant it was aired.

There are several other ad films that hold sentimental value for me. Picking one favourite is like choosing between one’s children. It’s next to impossible.

“More seasoned and polished actors can deliver with better expression, but this doesn’t mean you stop casting new faces in your films”

What are the responsibilities that come with being able to influence consumer opinion?

People often believe marketeers lie to promote a product but I believe the audience has matured now and won’t be fooled. The new generation is tech savvy and is exposed to a vast pool of knowledge through the internet and personal experience. I cannot influence consumers into purchasing a product they’re not interested in. Instead, my power lies in creating educational content that intrigues the audience enough to find out about its qualities and draw comparisons with competition. How effectively I can deliver this undertaking is what my ultimate job is, and I must admit, I’m pretty good at it.

Are big celebrity names crucial to the success of an ad campaign? 

It all depends on your message. The masses know that the person on a screen, regardless of his fame, is an actor playing a role. It is the information he or she gives out that matters. More seasoned and polished actors can deliver with better expression, but this doesn’t mean you stop casting new faces in your films. I will keep on believing that there are hidden gems just inches from you, every time you set out to make a film. All you need to do is choose the right fit for your product and script.

Run us through the process of coming up with an effective ad film.

Research, teamwork, pursuit of quality, transparency, charisma, strong script, knowing your demographics, understanding consumer needs, knowing your product, understanding competition, making good use of your training and experiences, arguing, fighting, convincing others, imagining- I could go on for hours! To cut it short, one needs to come up with the right mix of things to create something effective.

“I’m working on an action based romantic comedy. It took us around seventeen months to come up with the script because I didn’t want to rush into making something average”

How do you measure professional success? 

I am no advertising guru. I actively follow the mentors who taught me all that I know. To be able to achieve a certain goal, and then being able to move on to the next big thing is what success means to me.  Success is not a destination but a continous pursuit of excellence.

What is the future of ad films in Pakistan? 

Very bright. There’s huge potential in advertising. It is an ecosystem that is going through constant evolution. Our market is thriving with new entrepreneurs who are young, enthusiastic and passionate. The credit goes to them for keeping the advertising industry running at its optimal potential.

We hear you have an interesting relationship with music. Tell us about it.

Well, it’s no secret to the people who know me well that I‘m crazy about music. I created a few songs and produced some music videos back in the day and am happy to report that the passion still exists within me. I’ve finally worked on a full album, a project I’m very excited about.

We know a lot about your professional ventures but would love to find out more about you as a person. What is life like at home and how do you unwind?

I am an obedient son, a faithful husband, a doting father and a loyal friend. I tend to live two lives everyday; one is at work and the other at home. When I’m home, nothing else in the whole world can distract me. I’m blessed with an extremely loving support system and try my best to pay back with just as much selflessness.

I’m extremely dedicated to God. Whatever I have is because of him and I’m eternally grateful for the blessings he’s bestowed upon me.

Lastly, please tell us about your recent feature length production. Is it true that you’ll be directing a film?

Yes, it’s true. I’m working on an action based romantic comedy. It took us around seventeen months to come up with the script because I didn’t want to rush into making something average. While we worked thoroughly on budgets, cast and composition, the real success of a film is dependent on the quality of content.

The initial outline of the script took us around two months, after which we began creating links between the characters and situations. I’m sketching the whole project as a storyboard and am in no rush. I plan to give it as much time as required and will announce it officially only once it goes into pre-production.

Interview: Mehek Raza Rizvi - Coordination: Areesha Chaudhry - Photography: Ali Agha