Interviews »

Flexy Stu in an interview with Times Of India

• How did your India association begin?

I grew up in London’s north suburb and had Indians, Pakistanis and Bangladeshis as my neighbours. My aunt has married a Mumbaiite. Now, I’m based in the US.

• How did you get initiated into Bollywood?

Hrithik saw my work for a mobile brand. I then bagged an ad for biscuits with him and Isha Sharvani, apart from another endorsement. I also choreographed a Tamil movie shot in San Francisco.

• With Hrithik recommending you after the biscuit ad, do you feel indebted?

Besides being indebted, I’ve also learnt a lot from him. I was predominantly a dancer, but thanks to him, I have learnt the directorial aspect too. I am obliged to him for having faith in me.

• Could you elaborate on your Kites choreography?

Hrithik and Kangna play Americans of Indian descent. The first dance is with Kangna. It’s a
competition sequence. Unlike a typical Bollywood number, this one is similar to an American dance competition. The second number is with Barbara Mori. Hrithik, who plays a dance teacher, is doing a duet with both. My wife, Loren, is also choreographing for Kites.

• How’s Hrithik as a student?

He is one of the best I’ve had so far and a fast learner.

• What would it take to make non-dancers dance to your tunes?

(Laughs) It depends on the student. We are born dancers and swimmers. But with time, some tend to forget it.

• Would you continue with Bollywood projects?

I’m interested in the film industry. My wife and I are working in Hollywood, too. I feel satisfied after working with Hrithik and Surya, who’s the Hrithik of the South. Now, I’d love to do a Telugu film. I believe that if you’ve worked in Mumbai, you can handle any place.

• Which Bollywood actors would you like to choreograph?

SRK and Mr Bachchan.

• How apprehensive were you about coming down to Mumbai after the terror attacks?

We came from the US and everyone kept asking, ‘Is the trip still on?’. I’ve witnessed the 7/7 bombings in London. I grew up in the UK in the 80s, when the IRA was terrorising London. I’ve learnt to ignore such threats. Terrorists want to disrupt our lives. So, the best way is to not change our lifestyle fearing such threats.

Source : Times Of India