Tahir Raj Bhasin is back in Neeraj Pandey’s latest series, Special Ops 2, once again taking on an antagonist role that promises to be anything but conventional.
Embracing the Unconventional Villain
In Special Ops 2, Tahir Raj Bhasin plays ‘The Collector,’ a character he describes as disruptive and surprisingly complex. Unlike typical villains, The Collector brings a unique blend of gangster grit and tech-tycoon savvy, challenging audience expectations.
Bhasin notes that Neeraj Pandey’s work masterfully combines style with realism. The Collector’s unusual intro, listening to classical music, and his backstory as an orphan who now hoards possessions, reveal a deep psychological makeup that makes him fascinating.
His character operates with a distinct “Collector Philosophy,” embodying moral relativism. He genuinely believes his actions are justified, often framing them as necessary “taxes” on a flawed system. This nuanced portrayal makes him feel like a “reformer” rather than a mere antagonist.
The Art of Script Selection
When choosing scripts, Bhasin approaches it like “starting a new relationship,” emphasizing the importance of a character’s impact on the story. He looks for roles that drive the plot forward and act as a “plot twist” themselves, citing his parts in *Mardaani* and *Chhichhore* as examples.
The synergy with directors is equally crucial for him. Bhasin explains that building a platonic connection or a “shorthand” with filmmakers, especially in sequels, helps immensely in bringing a vision to life effectively.
A Challenging On-Screen Duel
One of the most challenging scenes in Special Ops 2 involved a phone call with veteran actor Kay Kay Menon, filmed from different locations. Bhasin shares how their performances had to rely purely on voice and timing, highlighting the subtle symbolic contrasts between their characters, even down to their glasses.
The actor was thrilled with the scene’s outcome, feeling that their characters beautifully complemented each other despite not being physically together. He even called Kay Kay Menon to express his admiration for their combined work.
Navigating Typecasting and Streaming Trends
Having played several antagonists, Bhasin consciously seeks to break the mold with each role, ensuring he isn’t typecast. He enjoys portraying flawed characters, drawing inspiration from iconic performances like Shah Rukh Khan in *Kabhi Haan Kabhi Naa* and Aamir Khan in *Rangeela*.
Regarding the streaming landscape, Bhasin believes the initial “burst of experimentation” after shows like *Sacred Games* led to a period of mass production. However, he sees a positive shift towards “quality control,” with financing and greenlighting becoming more aligned with curated, higher-quality content.
Memorable Moments and Future Endeavors
Bhasin cherishes the compliment he received from Aamir Khan after his debut in *Mardaani*, which greatly encouraged him as a newcomer. He also recalls the “aura” of meeting Shah Rukh Khan at a film screening, noting the superstar’s intense focus and energy.
A self-proclaimed fan of Christopher Nolan, Bhasin picks *Interstellar* as his favorite film, admiring its complexity, emotional depth, and cinematic heart. Looking ahead, he is working on a mystery drama series with Parineeti Chopra for Netflix and confirmed that *Yeh Kaali Kaali Aankhein Season 3* is currently in the writing stages.
