Kal Penn in Mira Nair's "The Namesake"
Peter Dimako:
When and how did you hear about this project?
Kal Penn:
I had read the book a few years before the film was made, and that was actually the impetus behind pursuing the film project so aggressively. Jhumpa Lahiri has created such awesome and intimate details about Gogol’s life and who he is, it was a treat to have that manuscript to refer to every day as we shot the film.
Peter Dimako:
What attracted you to this film?
Kal Penn:
The ability to play such a well-written character with such an insightful director.
Peter Dimako:
Did you relate to the character?
Kal Penn:
In some ways.
Peter Dimako:
This is quite a jump from “Kumar,” what do you hope this film will do for you as an actor now more versatile than before?
Kal Penn:
Hopefully it allows me to diversify the types of projects I can do.
Peter Dimako:
What sort of research was involved for this project? Had you read the novel by Jhumpa Lahiri prior to making this?
Kal Penn:
Yes, I’d read (and loved) the book. In terms of research, I studied up on architecture, visited Yale and Columbia (where Gogol went to school), and learned and experienced as much as I could from his life.
Peter Dimako:
Can you talk about working with Mira Nair on this? How much did you know about the director and what perspective have you gained after making this?
Kal Penn:
Mira was a role model of mine, and has been ever since I saw “Mississippi Masala”. Her eye for storytelling and conveying the human spirit is so unique and positive. I hope we get t work together again.
Peter Dimako:
What do you hope viewers will take for themselves as people from “The Namesake?”
Kal Penn:
Ultimately, it’s a story about family - whatever that definition means to you. I hope it reconnects people.
Peter Dimako:
So Kumar returns, what’s different in the sequel?
Kal Penn:
The stakes are much higher this time around – Harold and Kumar are mistaken for terrorists and need to clear their names. A lot of our friends, like Neil Patrick Harris, are back – as well as some new characters and cameos.
Peter Dimako:
Any other projects in the works? What’s your part in Under New Management? Is there something you’d like to delve in at a later stage? Another genre you haven’t tried perhaps?
Kal Penn:
“Harold and Kumar 2” comes out on April 25th. I’m also on a television show called “House”. Those are the 2 things to look out for right now.
Peter Dimako:
Thank you!
Kal Penn:
Thanks!
