Ilene Hamann on her brush with Bollywood, Rog 
By IndiaFM News Bureau, August 12, 2004 - 07:02 IST
She strikes a bold, seductive pose in a black bikini in her movie stills. But the Ilene we met was poised, demure and accessible. In an exclusive interview with IndiaFM, the South African beauty talks of her journey from Cape Town to tinsletown.
Ilene. Your name has a beautiful sound to it. What does it mean?
[Laughs heartily] Oh, I myself have no idea. The last time I asked mom, she hasn't got back yet. So, no sooner than I get to know, will let you know too.
Okay. Till then can we assume it means gorgeous?
[Giggles] If you like it that way. Sure.
You are of South African originality. Tell us something about yourself.
That's right. I am born-bred in South Africa, Cape Town. My mom is Portuguese while dad is of Dutch origin. I have been living in Cape Town for three years and have modeled for six years. So it's been quite a while…
You started your career with photography. Modeling followed next and now you are on the Indian screen. Sounds quite exciting. How has the journey been?
Oh it's been a crazy. Each career brings with it newness and excitement. From Cape Town to India, it's been one hell of an adventure ride. And have to admit, I have had nothing short of a blast!
You have now worked with one of the leading production house in India. It must be a definite high. How does it feel?
It feels absolutely fabulous. The feeling is sinking in only now. I got to learn a lot. Since it is my first ever film, it will remain special for the rest of my life. The people have gone an extra mile to ensure that I have the best. I have been totally cared for. The production unit was warm, patient and absolutely amazing. It's been great!
You play the character of a dead woman in Rog. Spooky as it may sound, can you share something about it?
Rog is a murder mystery. It's about these three men who center my life. Suhel Seth career-grooms me only to turn an obsessive lover. The second character is that of Himanshu Malik who is my love interest. While Irrfan Khan plays a cop with a disturbed side to him. As the title suggest, I disease to as well as heal these characters.
How as it working with your co-stars?
Fabulous is the word. Felt great working with every single of them.
Irrfan Khan is a tremendous actor. How was it co-starring with him?
Irrfan was fantastic. He made me feel very comfortable. A very peaceful and still person, he is explosive the moment the camera is on. But he is very reserved and quite. Can't really figure him out. I would love to know more of him.
Being of foreign origin, spouting long Hindi dialogues couldn't have come easy. How did you manage?
Can't deny. It was tough. Especially, the pronouncing part. But the real challenge was to understand what I am saying. The unit was quite co-operative, and the result looks reasonable. Once it has come out of the editing table, I'll get to see the final output.
Can you share some Hindi words with us?
Hmm…I am really bad at it. Lets see…Aap kaise hain…? Main theek hoon. That's about it.
Not bad. You have a fetish for shoes, don't you?
[giggles] That's right. I just can't do without shoes. Someday, I hope to own a shoe label of my own.
Beaches are another love, right? Which is the Indian beach that you have been to?
Yeah. I love beaches. Cape Town has some of the most beautiful beaches. In India, I visited the Anjuna beach in Goa. It was simply gorgeous.
Now that you have been in India for quite some time, how has India been treating you?
Oh, it's been fabulous. The people out here are very warm and friendly. But the thing that impressed me best was the contentment among Indians. You guys make so much of so little. Now that is something we can all learn.
After Rog, what next?
After Rog, I am heading straight home. Have to admit, have grown really home sick.
There has been a positive buzz about the film. You must have offers pouring in…
All my work is routed through my agents back home in Cape Town. So, it's only when I get to South Africa, will I know the situation at hand. I will then browse through the offers and consider the ones that interest me.
Millions are now going to know Ilene better on IndiaFM. What's your message to your fans?
I am looking forward to an encouraging response. Being my first film, a positive feedback would be an ideal way to start a career. But more importantly, please don't pre-judge me before seeing the film. I hope they enjoy watching me in Rog.
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