Actor Rajkummar Rao believes the best laughs are the ones that are not forced.
Ahead of his April 15 Netflix debut as a producer with his upcoming film “Toaster”, Rao opened up about bringing his signature "effortless" humour to the screen.
Directed by Vivek Daschaudary, the film features Rao and Sanya Malhotra in what is termed a dark comedy about Ramakant—a man so frugal that his cheapness creates a comedy of errors.
"It has to be right on paper," Rao said emphasising that comedy is deeply rooted in writing and authenticity.
"And then, of course, actors come and at least do that much... The more effortless it is, the more natural it is," he said.
Elements like editing and sound design also play a crucial role in enhancing humour, says the actor famed for balancing intense dramas with lighter roles in films like “Bareilly Ki Barfi”, “Ludo”, and “Stree”.
Also read: Rajkummar Rao’s ‘Toaster’ out on April 15
While being naturally inclined towards serious roles the actor says he enjoys switching to comedy for relief. "My favourite genre is always drama... dramas tire you emotionally and physically. Then I feel like I should do a comedy, a light one," says Rao.
The actor also spoke about working closely with his wife as a producer on the project. "We have spent a lot because my wife is a producer... bahut dildaar hai. And since we have been actors ourselves, we know exactly what all problems come up on set," he says, adding, "Of course, we both look after the expenses at home... but in life, we both are not stingy... Patra is way sharper with money than I am."
Netflix dropped the official trailer of “Toaster”, offering a glimpse into a chaotic narrative where frugality spirals into absurdity. In the trailer Rao is introduced as a meticulous and uncompromising Ramakant, a self-proclaimed "kanjoos" who believes every rupee saved is a victory.
The film is produced by Rao and his actor wife Patralekhaa under Kampa Films.
It blends dark humour with situational chaos, leaning heavily on its ensemble cast, which includes Archana Puran Singh, Abhishek Banerjee, Farah Khan, Upendra Limaye, Vinod Rawat, Jitendra Joshi, and Seema Pahwa. Each character contributes to the film's escalating confusion, adding layers to its fast-paced narrative.
With a screenplay by Parveez Shaikh, Akshat Ghildial, and Anagh Mukerjee, “Toaster” promises a sharp, character-driven narrative where a minor obsession leads to major consequences.
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