“I think it was my destiny to become an actor”
She came, she saw and she conquered – that is the tale of Humaima Malick. When Shoaib Mansoor’s award-winning film (Bol) on women empowerment hit the screens, little did Humaima know her life was about to change. “Whatever I am today, it’s because of him,” she tells us humbly. Not only was her work appreciated in Pakistan, she also won numerous accolades across the globe for her performance; South Asia Rising Star Film Award for Best Lead Actress, Best Actress Award at the 9th Annual South Asian International Film Festival where she was nominated alongside Bollywood actress Parineeti Chopra, and Best Actress Award at London Asia Film Festival to name a few, and she was also nominated alongside Bollywood actress Vidya Balan at Asia Pacific Screen Award for Best Performance by an Actress in 2012. Now that’s a smashing debut on the silver screen!
Following the film’s success, offers came pouring in for this starlet. Bollywood was the next destination. She has worked with industry bigwigs like Sanjay Dutt and Paresh Rawal, and has three more projects signed up and in process. Rumour has it that Humaima will be seen on the big screen very soon with one of the Khans!
As for this month, she will be seen with Noor Jehan’s grandson, Sikander Rizvi in one of the year’s most anticipated films, Dekh Magar Pyaar Say (DMPS). She talks to us about her role in the film and what the audience should expect in terms of entertainment.
In conversation with Humaima, we also discover a hidden side to her. Behind the glamorous image is a self-made, responsible woman who runs a household of 12. From paying bills to making sure everything is in place, Humaima epitomises what an independent woman is all about. She earns for her family and loves them more than anything in her life…
Did you always know as a child that you wanted to be an actor? At what point did you just know that this is what you were born to do?
Humaima Malick: It’s a very funny story, actually. When I was young, I would watch those Miss World and Miss Universe type beauty pageants and then stand in front of the mirror and pretend to be a winner. I would wave and act like I was thanking my parents [Laughs] and basically just imitate the contestants. I even have videos of this! I was barely five years old but I knew in my heart that I would grow up and win the crown. But then I grew up and reality kicked in – I found out that Pakistani women weren’t allowed to participate in beauty pageants! My dreams were literally shattered and my world came crashing down. Then I moved on and came to terms with it. My parents have always been very pro education so I got busy with that.
So what was your first ever project?
HM: I was 13 or 14 I think and I remember we weren’t allowed to use the internet alone. So my sister, who is seven years older, and I were sitting online once and came across an ad – the organisers were looking for college girls and boys for Nadia Mistry’s fashion show. My elder brother was always against this and very strict; no one in our entire family had ever been part of this industry. My parents were always super supportive though, so my sister and I told them about the show and left. Everyone loved me and I got great feedback. Then my khala’s friend, who was a very famous journalist at the time, saw me – she called up my brother and told him. So we ran from there and denied it all! [Laughs] It was a 15-minute show, but was my very first one. Saqib Malik saw me there and called my mother; he asked for her permission if I could be part of the Fair and Lovely campaign. My parents discussed it and allowed it. The first cheque I received was PKR 80,000 which was a big deal back then. Then I endorsed Pepsi and Sunsilk as well. After that I made my television debut with Momina Duraid’s Ishq Junoon Dewaangi. And then I did Bol and my life changed. That was my breakthrough role – I had the best writer, the best screenplay, the best director and the best team to work with.
Your movie Dekh Magar Pyaar Say is slated for release this August. Tell us about your role in the movie. How different is it from other roles you’ve played in the past?
HM: My character Ainy is a lot like me – she’s sexy and smart, and she knows it. She’s spontaneous, blunt and a mystery you can never solve. She will make her presence known but she’s not a girl everyone can relate to. She is a mastikhor. She’s always on something – you’ll see her dancing, crying and laughing throughout the movie. She’s a drama queen and just very cinematic. I’ve played Zainab in Bol and Zia in Raja Natwarlal, and now Ainy who is very different. I think actors should experiment with different kinds of roles because only then can they be great actors. When people watched Bol, they took Zainab with them – she stayed in their hearts for days. Zia, on the other hand, was a bar dancer. She was not a molvi’s daughter like Zainab but she was very vulnerable and real, and just wanted to save the love of her life. She believed that everything she did was based on good intentions. And with Ainy now, I feel I’m playing a very different role. I wouldn’t compare it to any other roles or characters in Bollywood or in the Pakistani film industry, but yes, she will bring her own colours to the screen.
Tell us more about Ainy being so similar to the real Humaima; and is this the character you’ve enjoyed playing the most?
HM: Yes, it has to be Ainy because she’s very pataakho. My mom used to call me a pataakho larki when I was a kid – she’s like you’re always on something. And when someone meets me, they see that I’m not restrained or diplomatic. I’m not pretending to be something I’m not – I don’t have layers on me. And the same goes with Ainy; one minute she’s calm and the next minute she will surprise you. When you watch the movie you’ll see all the shades she has and why. When I played Zainab, I was actually going through a very difficult time in life so the whole experience was rather different. So for now, I would have to say Ainy.
What were you going through?
HM: I had just gotten out of a relationship and when I played such an intense character like Zainab, it had a profound impact on me and my life. I was very young and it was the first ever relationship of my life. I was always low and depressed. It wasn’t about not being with that specific person anymore but when you’re a baby, every relation means a lot to you – and that’s how I felt too. But playing that role made me really strong. If I hadn’t gotten out of that horrible phase, I wouldn’t have been the person I am today. It’s very important to be able to let go of bad experiences. After years, I’m sitting and openly talking about this – I’m smiling and laughing. And I’m glad that I am and I only have God to thank for this. If I didn’t go through that, I probably wouldn’t have been this strong or successful in life. Some incidents and experiences really prove to be life-changing.
So this must have really helped you get in character for Bol…this kind of inspiration…
HM: Definitely! I thank God even now that this role came along right after that relationship ended. Actors sometimes need these kind of real inspirations to really get into that mode or zone. So basically everything that happened in my life at that point really helped me bring out Zainab. When I was shooting, I used to be really depressed and the script required it as well. Everything I did to make the character believable was very tough; I didn’t thread my eyebrows, didn’t wax my arms, sitting at the Gymkhana for three months, not socialising at all. But when I watched the film for the first time, I broke down. I cried after looking at myself. It had such a strong impact that I felt depressed all over again. I can never watch it again. But despite what it did to me emotionally, even if I thank Shoaib Mansoor [the director] a billion times, it can never be enough. Even after ten years, I’m sure I’ll never get a script like Bol or a director like Shoaib Mansoor. He made my life. Whatever I am today, it’s solely because of him.
It all paid off as you received numerous international awards for it! You’re still remembered for your dialogue…
HM: Khila nai saktey, tau paida kyu karte ho is the only dialogue in Pakistan’s history that has made such a mark in people’s minds and hearts. We even have it on Dubsmash now, and I think it’s the only Pakistani film dialogue there!
Tell us about working in Bollywood. You’ve worked with so many actors, who has been your favourite?
HM: Paresh Rawal; I’ve worked with him in two movies and he is just amazing. I’ve never seen such a gem of a person like him. Varun Dhawan is also fun to hang out with; he’s such a young soul full of energy. I’ve never seen such a good dancer! Emraan Hashmi as well; despite what people say about him, he is a true actor. He does three films a year and the masses simply love him. And what I love most about Immi is how punctual, particular and practical he is. Another one of my favourite co-stars has been Sanjay Dutt. I support him and wish him the very best in life; I hope all the hurdles coming his way come to an end soon. I’ve never seen a greater human being than Baba.
How was it working with Sikander Rizvi in Dekh Magar Pyaar Say? Was it easy to work with a newcomer; were you mentoring him simultaneously?
HM: I don’t correct anybody – that is not my personality. I don’t like to poke my nose into things. I think every actor creates his or her own magic; they come with their own thing and deliver that. In this movie, Asad ul Haq was the leader of the ship; he was dealing with everything. He made Sikander take a lot of workshops, and Sikander was very receptive – he was excited about it and made a lot of effort too. He would ask me for tips sometimes but I would never be the one to go up to him and be like, “Do this, do that.” Every actor delivers what they can, and he delivered the best he could which was very commendable. He’s a very fast learner and just a positive soul.
In your opinion, which local actress seems to have it all – good looks plus acting ability? Or who is the most promising?
HM: As a viewer, I believe that a full and proper actress is someone who looks beautiful, desirable and sexy. She should know how to dance and how to make people laugh and cry. People should have dreams about her! That’s what my definition of a heroine is – she has to be sizzling! If you look at Bebo [Kareena Kapoor], Priyanka [Chopra] or Deepika [Padukone], you will see that they aren’t just mid-shot actresses – it’s every angle of the whole body. I have yet to see a Pakistani girl who has it all or is the full package; someone who isn’t too serious or too adorable or too deep. There has to be balance. However, there are different people I like for different things. Sanam Saeed is a very deep actress, Mahirah Khan is everyone’s favourite – she’s very adorable and sweet – and Aamina Sheikh is a very serious actor.
What is your beauty and skincare regime like?
HM: I don’t take care of my skin or get facials done. I’ve never gotten anything done to my face. All these features and cuts are the same as everyone else in my family; we all have the same nose and chin. But I guess the secret would be to just stay happy and positive. When you are happy on the inside, it shows on the outside. Drink lots of water, use a good face wash and good products. I use Giorgio Armani base, Bobbi Brown cream blush, Benefit eyebrow pencil and YSL mascara. Sometimes I cleanse my skin with honey, lemon and sugar.
Do you go to the gym often?
HM: I’m very pro work out but I can never go on a diet. It might be because I’m half Punjabi! I put on weight very fast but I lose it at the same speed. I work out, go on walks, hit the treadmill and do Pilates. But I’m very lazy at the same time so I can’t work out every day. When I’m about to shoot a song where I’m wearing a choli, I’ll start working out a few days before that!
What is your favourite past-time?
HM: I spend a lot of time at home with family. I love them more than anything in life. I’ll call my sister Dua over and just gossip with her for hours or take my mom out for dessert. I like to read books and watch movies, too. I’m not an early person and I have accepted it – I’m not shameful about it. And it’s primarily because of the work hours that we have. Sometimes we are shooting from 5pm till 7am and even longer hours at times. So in my spare time, I just end up catching up on sleep.
You seem to be really close to your family…
HM: Whatever I am today, it’s because of my family. We are six siblings – three sisters are married and settled in their lives, one brother who travels back and forth from Dubai and the other one Feroze [Khan] is a very promising actor. We are all very close. Even if I’m off for six days, I’ll sit at home. The first thing I did after all the money I made from Bol and Raja Natwarlal was buy a house and put it in my mother’s name. I live there with my entire family. I’m very attached to my siblings – they are my biggest supporters and soulmates. They correct me when I’m wrong. That’s why I guess I never needed to make any other friends. All the friends I have today are the ones I made in school; I don’t make friends in this industry. If you do a bad film, people will judge but your family won’t. Meryl Streep once said, “The best thing about being famous is that I get to know so much gossip about myself that I never knew before.” So yes, I’m okay with that. And in our society women can never do well in their careers unless they have family support, and I’ve had it.
Tell us something no one knows about you.
HM: I’m very emotional, a bit mad and quite blunt. I cry a lot; even the smallest thing can make me cry. But I’m also very strong when I need to be. I can take it all. I’m sensitive, spontaneous and fun as well. All my friends say I’m very jolly and make them laugh a lot!
Do you watch your own movies?
HM: I can’t watch my own films more than once. I hate looking at myself again and again. I criticise myself a lot.
Do you have regrets in life or do you believe everything happens for a reason?
HM: I think it was my destiny to become an actor. I wouldn’t change anything – I have the best parents, siblings, education. I’ve achieved fame, name and money so early on in life.
What is next for Humaima Malick?
HM: There are three really interesting projects coming out soon. One is a Pakistani film and two are Bollywood projects. I will soon give the announcements but I can’t say much right now as it’s in our contract that the production house will make the first announcement.
Marriage plans?
HM: Not right now at all. I don’t think you can plan these things. It’ll happen when the time comes and the right person comes along.
Do you believe in arranged marriages?
HM: No way! I’ll find him myself. I’m a very romantic person. He needs to be intelligent, super educated, smart, quick, romantic, spontaneous, not boring at all and respectful. He needs to respect me, believe in me, support me and push me positively.
First crush?
HM: Salman Khan! When I was younger, I remember I used to save up my pocket money and buy postcards with his pictures on them. My entire cupboard door was covered with his photos!
A lot of actors go through hard times – financial crisis or something they had to overcome in life. Did you go through anything like that?
HM: Some people have it easy – their parents are bureaucrats, school principals, etc – while some don’t. My parents always believed in good education. The day I started earning, I took over all the responsibilities in the house. I run a house of 12 people; I’m a self-made, responsible girl. I always wanted to go to a foreign university but I sent my siblings instead. I made a house for my mother. I’m not counting the things I’ve done but I love that I’m able to do them. From electricity to petrol to other bills, I do it all. And now my brother Feroze helps out too.
I’m sure your parents are proud of you and you must be proud of yourself too…
HM: They are and yes, I’m very proud of myself. There are very few kids who are blessed enough to be able to do something for their parents. Most people start earning and get busy with their lives. Whatever I am earning, I feel it was meant for them – I feel like I’m just a vessel. If I’ve kept my mother happy, then I feel it was my duty to do that. I earn for my family.
RAPID FIRE
An actor or actress you have always wanted to work with?
HM: There are so many. Amitabh Bachchan, Salman Khan, Madhubala, Denzel Washignton and Meryl Streep.
Local actor or actress?
HM: I would like to work with Shaan; I think he’s a very good actor. Actresses – Sania Saeed and Shehnaz Sheikh.
What do you love most about your life?
HM: I love that we [my family] all live together. I love my house and my family. I have so many people around me who love me, and that’s what I love most about my life. I don’t like this system these days where everyone just stays in their rooms and talk via servants. In my house, my mom and sisters still cook. There are no walls between us – that kills the essence of relationships.
Biggest misconception about you?
HM: Everything people say or think about me especially the people in the industry. People who have just entered the field and have given nothing to the industry say a lot of false things. People who know me, meet me and hang out with me are the only ones who love me.
All-time favourite movie?
HM: The Theory of Everything, Whiplash, The Curious Case of Benjamin Button, Gangs of Wasseypur – all the parts. And I love family oriented films! Hum Aap Key Hain Kaun, Hum Dil De Chukey Sanam, Devdas.
Describe yourself in three words?
HM: Mad, mysterious and real.
Words to live by or advice someone gave you?
HM: My mother once said to me, “Jitni bhi bari ho jao, apni base nai chorna.” When your feet leave the ground, you lose balance; you should always stay grounded and respect people who respect you. There’s something I want to tell the younger lot today – please be good to your parents and family. These are the people who will believe and trust you when nobody in this fake world will. This time will never come back and you will end up regretting it. When we were young, our parents taught us how to speak and now that we are older, we can’t repeat one thing because our parents can’t hear properly? This is wrong. Please respect your parents and treat them how they deserve to be treated.
Most memorable moment in your career?
HM: It was at Bol’s premiere. They kept free shows from 11am till 9pm for women because the movie was on women empowerment. The premiere was at 7pm and there was a huge line of women – old, young, dupatta-clad, every kind. When I came out, they started clapping and hugging me; they kept calling me Zainab. I will never forget the amount of love I got. I still get goosebumps when I think about this.
THE INSIDE SCOOP
Humaima Malick’s family, friends and team from Dekh Magar Pyaar Say tell us more about the starlet…we asked them to describe her as a person, as an actress and what it’s like working with her…
Ali Zafar (Friend)
I met Humaima in 2005 and we featured her in a music video called Aag. I’ve always felt she has great potential for cinema which we all got to see with her performance in Bol. I hope we get to witness that once again with her new film, Dekh Magar Pyaar Say as well. I’d like to wish her the best of luck!
Asad ul Haq (Director, DMPS)
Humaima Malick is a force to be reckoned with! As the director of the movie, working with Humaima was enthralling. She always brought the right energy and attitude to the screen, which really helped boost everyone involved and give me what I wanted. She took her role very seriously and tried to really understand who Annie was and how she could best manifest in to Annie’s personality. Humaima is genuine in her work and a committed actress who will take Pakistani cinema by storm! I am excited to see her grow in to her full potential in the industry.
Sikander Rizvi (Co-star, DMPS)
It was 45 days of seeing each other for about 12 hours every single day, which can be quite an issue when you don’t get along with people. But to be honest, some of the scenes went spectacular and we shared great chemistry on screen. Initially it was a bit odd obviously as I’m not an experienced actor and she is; so if anything, I learnt a few things from her. She’s very natural at sticking to and adapting to the role she is playing. And let me add, she looked stunning on screen. Honestly, I was pleasantly surprised that being the seasoned actress that she is, she was very patient and easy to work with and I thought it would be a lot harder for a newcomer like myself to work together than it was.
Feroze Khan (Brother)
I haven’t been lucky enough to work with Humaima yet but yes, I’ve learnt a lot from her. She is my mentor and she has taught me everything I know. And that’s not it. She has always taken care of me like a mother would take care of her child. As a person, I would say she is a four-leaf clover! Hard to find and luck to have!
Ali Xeeshan (Fashion Designer)
What I really like about Humaima Malick is that she knows exactly what she wants from life and she works hard to achieve it without losing focus. That’s the personality trait that I really like. As an actress, I feel Humaima really does her homework before going on set. She studies the role and script so well that she doesn’t need to do any re-takes on set which makes her acting very real and believable.
Hassan Sheheryar Yasin (Creative Consultant, DMPS)
Humaima Malick is an actress of many qualities. She embraced her role as Annie in Dekh Magar Pyaar Say with such ease and enthusiasm that she had no problem gaging the different facets of Annie’s personality – one minute she’s quirky and the next she’s somber. As an actress, Humaima Malick has established herself as an iconic figure setting a precedent for others with both her skills, personality, and ease to work with. It has been a pleasure to get to know her in the capacity of the movie, and style her look which she pulled off with the right amounts of elegance, femininity and boldness. As a an individual, she always has something new to bring to the table making the atmosphere light and joyful for those who are in her company!
Dua Malick (Sister)
Humaima is very different from all the other actresses I’ve seen. She isn’t bothered with what others are doing in the industry – she is only concerned with her own work. She always asks her family for feedback and takes our comments very seriously. She is madly in love with what she does – acting! She is a family girl. Whenever she is free or on holiday, she would prefer spending it at home with family than going out and partying. Her nieces and nephews treat her like a superhero and love her! They will run to her room and wake her up. She is very overprotective when it comes to family. She is over emotional about everything in life. Sometimes I feel she is extremely open and nice to people and I have to sit down and explain that people will take you for granted. She never expects anything from anyone no matter what she does for them. She is a very positive girl. She’s our mom’s favourite child! She’s someone you can definitely count on. As a sister, she is a protective shield and a commander – she always wants the best for me. She is someone I look up to. She never buys anything for herself alone. If she’s getting something, then she will get two – one for me and one for herself.
Saima Rashid Bargfrede (Make-up and Hairstylist, DMPS)
As the make-up artist and stylist for Dekh Magar Pyaar Say, it was a great experience styling the lovely Humaima Malick – her bold features made her an interesting canvas to work on! She showed great commitment and enthusiasm for her work which will allow her to set the pathway to great success in the future.
CREATIVE DIRECTION: SAHER H PARACHA
INTERVIEW: EIMAN MASROOR
PHOTOGRAPHS: NFK PHOTOGRAPHY
FASHION COORDINATION: SOHA HAFEEZ SHEIKH
HAIR AND MAKE-UP: NATASHA SALON
