In the Dibakar Banerjee-directed political thriller, Emraan is seen sporting a paunch, buck teeth and a darker complexion. It was the director who conceived this look for Emraan.
"It is one of the most interesting characters that I have played in my career. Whatever was required for the character I did. Dibakar wanted me to look a certain way. I won't say it is ugly, it would be unfair to say that. 'Jogi' (Emraan's character) probably is attractive for some women," Emraan told PTI.
"But after playing so many cool guys who have lured everyone, this was a good change as you can't do the same thing again and again, so I tried something new," he said.
Also, Emraan had to gain nine to ten kgs and go a few shades darker.
"I would like to do more films like 'Shanghai'. It is a turning point for our industry. Such films were perceivably niche six-seven years back, with a lot of things being pushed ahead to go into commercial zone," he said.
In 'Shanghai' Emraan will be shedding his 'serial kisser' image as he does not have any lip lock scene in the movie.
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"There is a kissing scene in the film. But there is no such scene between Kalki and me. I was very happy... I don't have to indulge in it," Emraan said.
Set to release on June 8, 'Shanghai' revolves around the greed and corruption of politicians and boasts of an ensemble cast comprising Kalki Koechlin, Abhay Deol, Emraan Hashmi and Bengali superstar Prosenjit Chatterjee.