Mallika Prasad says her disturbing ‘Mardaani 3’ dance as Amma was inspired by DC’s iconic villain Joker: ‘I couldn’t do something pure villainy’ |
‘Mardaani 3’, starring Rani Mukerji, has struck a chord with the audiences. Fans are praising the film’s tone and its chilling antagonist Mallika Prasad, whose unsettling screen presence has sparked intense discussion. In a recent interview, Mallika opened up about her process and revealed an unexpected influence behind one of the film’s most talked-about moments.
Mallika Prasad’s tribute to DC’s Joker
One scene has lingered with viewers. Mallika’s character breaks into an eerie dance while controlling the girls she has abducted. Now in an interview with Mid-Day, Mallika explained the inspiration behind it. She said it was her tribute to DC’s iconic villain Joker, “There was a little bit of that. It’s also something that I drew from my mother. So, it was very important for me to make Amma someone who was human. I couldn’t do something pure villainy.”
Mallika Prasad on the thrill of playing a baddie
Mallika is no newcomer to cinema. She has carried a celebrated body of work, from the National Award-winning Kanooru Heggadithi to her role as Zubeida in Killer Soup. Still, Mardaani 3 marks a turning point. The role pushed her into a new spotlight, “Any actor will tell you that playing a baddie is more fun,” she notes with a laugh. “When I was offered the role, it was simply exhilarating. It was also at a time when the character was being shaped.”
Inside ‘Mardaani 3’
Inspired by true events, ‘Mardaani 3’ brings back Rani as Shivani Shivaji Roy, now racing against time in Delhi. According to the makers, Shivani Shivaji Roy is “a daredevil cop who risks her life to save 93 young missing girls in a race against time”. The film also features Mallika Prasad and Janki Bodiwala.The third instalment deepens the franchise’s reputation. It is described as a dark, deadly, and brutal chapter. Nine days into its theatrical run, the film has crossed Rs 30 crore in Indian net collections.
