Arshad Warsi was last seen in a comic role in 'Golmaal'. His latest 'Anthony Kaun Hai?' which released this Friday, has limited comedy, as the film is basically a thriller.

His forthcoming films have him in a different light. But there is an out-and-out comedy that Arshad stars in- 'Lage Raho Munnabhai'. TWF correspondent Vickey Lalwani caught up with him for a chat.

Q: For the time being, we heard that have you stopped taking funny roles in films?
A: I am doing the same thing over and again, it has become monotonous for me. Hence for some time, I shall refrain doing comedy.

Q: Are you looking for a change in image?
A: I have changed my image (laughs) from hilarity to villainy. I will play a dreaded terrorist in Kabeer Kaushik's film 'Qazaa' which is based on global terrorism. In the film, I play a militant who plants bombs to unleash terror in the cities. In another forthcoming film, Kabul Express, I play a media person.

Q: Would you like to say goodbye to comedy?
A: Doing comedy in every next film is like eating the same food everyday. Now I want variety. But that doesn't mean that I am saying goodbye to comedy. That would be too much of a statement.

Q: Tell us about 'Anthony Kaun Hai?'
A: Sanjay Dutt is Master Madan, the dangerous hitman. I play Champ, the only ace conman who's changed his identity more than his underwear (laughs). Minissha Lamba is Jiya, the only player who has a big secret to hide.

Anusha Dandekar is Rosa, the hottest woman of the set-up. She may love Champ with all her heart, but patience isn't really her virtue. I can't reveal more than this. I want more people to go and watch Anthony Kaun Hai? in the theatres.

Q: But all those who have seen the film say that it should be seen just for you?
A: That's nonsense. Any film is a team effort. We all have done equally well. But anyway, thanks to all those who are praising me.

Q: Sanjay Dutt did 'Anthony Kaun Hai?' because you told him to?
A: Well, I asked him if he could. And he said 'Anything for you Arshad'. He is a gem of a person, who does not interfere with the script or fight for screen space. And we gel very well. He is a buddy to me.

Q: You must be on top of the world that 'Kabul Express' is getting international acclaim even before its release?
A: Of course. 'Kabul Express' has been officially selected for the Special Presentations Programme at the 31st Toronto International Film Festival being held from September 7 to 16. The film will hold its world premiere at the prestigious red-carpet special presentation meant for artistic and daring cinema from around the world.

Q: You shot for 'Kabul Express' amidst tight security?
A: Yes. Following the killing of an Indian driver, Maniappan R. Kutty, in Taliban plagued Afghanistan, security had been tightened for the cast and crew of 'Kabul Express', which was stationed in Kabul for the shooting of the film.

Relatives and friends of John Abraham and I, who play the two main protagonists in the film, had been calling up our homes to inquire about our safety. However the Afghan government had been taking additional measures to ensure protection for the whole unit.

The unit was unlikely to get into any trouble because of director Kabir Khan, who was thoroughly well acquainted with the rough terrain of Afghanistan. All's well that ends well.

Q: What is 'Kabul Express' about?
A: 'Kabul Express' is a thriller and an anti-war film set in post 9/11 Afghanistan, which tells the story of a 48-hour car drive in the most dangerous country, where I play a cinematographer and John Abraham, a TV director.

Q: Tell us about the 'Munnabhai MBBS' sequel?
A: I can't divulge anything. I can only tell you that it's not a sequel. But yes, I bet my last shirt that it will be a big hit.