Mohammed Zeeshan Ayyub Discusses His Role in Criminal Justice and Collaborations

Working with Applause Entertainment and Sameer Nair

Sameer Nair is undoubtedly one of my favorite individuals. I truly admire him for his conversational style and extensive knowledge. Our shared passion for reading often leads to discussions about books, and he frequently sends me recommendations. I've also given him a few titles. Collaborating with him feels intellectually stimulating, and he respects actors without imposing on them. His grasp of performance and creativity is exceptional, which is a rarity among producers. I genuinely appreciate working with someone who understands the craft, and Sameer is truly a remarkable person.

Experiencing the Courtroom Drama in Criminal Justice

In terms of stress, I have never played the accused in a courtroom drama before, making this experience quite unique. It was challenging to stand there while others discussed my character, requiring a realistic response to the situation rather than engaging with the audience. This approach demanded that I remain in character without overtly displaying emotions.

Collaborating with Talented Co-stars

Working alongside talented actors is always a joy. Surveen was delightful to work with, and although my scenes with Pankaj Tripathi were limited, observing him perform was a treat. I have known Pankaj for nearly twenty years, having crossed paths when he graduated from NSD just as I was entering. Meeting Meeta Vashisht for the first time was also a pleasure, and having skilled actors on set enhances the experience for everyone involved.

Comfort with Morally Complex Characters

I find it more rewarding to portray characters with moral ambiguity. Playing an idealistic character can often feel one-dimensional, limiting exploration. Characters with grey areas provide a broader canvas for creativity, making the role more exciting.

What I Seek in Scripts

After years in the industry, I now prioritize scripts that genuinely excite me. While financial considerations sometimes necessitate taking on projects, I prefer roles that resonate with me. Even if the character isn't the lead, I enjoy exploring diverse roles that challenge me. A script should surprise and engage me, and I appreciate directors who recognize my ability to take on varied characters rather than casting me in similar roles.

The Importance of Reliable Co-stars

Thank you for this insightful question. Criminal Justice holds significance as a legacy series, and working with Pankaj Tripathi allows me to learn from his craft. Collaborating with director Rohan Sippy has been a long-awaited opportunity, and I was thrilled to finally work together. My character in Criminal Justice is more introspective, focusing on internal conflict rather than dialogue, which is a refreshing change.

Upcoming Projects

I have several projects lined up for release by the end of this year, including Anubhav Sinha's latest film and Anurag Kashyap's two-part film, Nishanchi, where I play a unique character. Additionally, a film produced by Nikhil Advani is set for a July release, and I will soon begin work on an intriguing show by Nikhil Mahajan. I also completed an international film with BFI. Despite the market's challenges, I feel fortunate and optimistic about my upcoming work.