Monday, May 11, 2026

Mohan Kapur on IIZ: Indian Institute Of Zombies: “I believe we have a sleeper hit in our hands”; jokes about being placed prominently on poster despite limited trailer presence: “Kuch gadbad hua toh mere sar pe daal denge?”

Mohan Kapur has worked on many projects and also made his mark in Hollywood.

 However, he remains as humble as ever and shows a lot of respect, making every conversation worth it. In an exclusive interview with source, the experienced and talented actor shared his thoughts about his upcoming film, IIZ: Indian Institute Of Zombies, and much more.

What can we expect from you in IIZ: Indian Institute Of Zombies?
 You are not shown much in the trailer, but at the same time, you have a prominent place on the poster…  

(Laughs) Even I found that strange.
 I am hardly there in the trailer and yet, they have put my face up front in the poster. It made me wonder – am I supposed to shoulder a lot of responsibility? Are the makers thinking “Kuch gadbad hua toh iske sar pe sab daal denge?” (laughs).

On a serious note, these guys are the most amazing people.
 They have come with a lot of freshness and a beautiful approach. They are also very collaborative. What grabbed my attention when they approached me is that Kuku FM, which is an audio streaming platform, are making something. I thought it’s for one of the things, which they call verticals. I get called for it a lot but I don’t do it because of budget issues and other factors. Also, I don’t know what exactly it is.

But when we got talking, I realized that it’s a feature film.
 I found it interesting. So, for their sake, I decided to be a part of their journey. And my sake also, as I get a chance to be a part of their first feature. And the way they narrated the concept to me, I found it so damn intriguing and fascinating. I was very thankful.

Now, coming to what to expect from Mohan Kapur, I am playing this scientist called Darwindra, it’s a play on the name Darwin.
 He wants to create a new species and hence, he creates a diabolical, dangerous virus. He administers it only to the university toppers for an ulterior motive. Hence, it’s a mad, fun concept. It’s a first-of-its-kind college campus zombie horror comedy.

The youngsters who have played their parts in the film are phenomenal.
 I am actually very excited to be a part of their film. I am the reason why all the chaos happens, but they are the real stars.

Have you seen the film?

No.
 I have seen only a few scenes, as I had gone to dub a line since the Censor Board had asked for a change. They showed me a scene and I can vouch that the audience is going to be pleasantly surprised. My directors, Gaganjeet Singh and Alok Dwivedi, are like my brothers from another mother. I told them “Kabhi kabhi apni hi nazar lag jaati hai”. But at the same time, you must also manifest the good stuff. Andar daba ke mat rakhno. Hence, I told them, “I believe in the power of manifestation over nazar lagna and I believe that we have a sleeper hit in our hands”. Imagine I am reacting to the trailer. If the trailer is such, obviously the film will have more, na? On the other hand, we have big-budget films that mess it up at the trailer stage. At times, they show so much in the promo. But this one definitely has way more to offer.

What next?

There’s a Netflix series I am really looking forward to – Operation Safed Sagar.
 It’s about the 1999 Kargil War, but from the Air Force point of view. I play an interesting character and its beautifully researched. It’s got a stellar cast. I was gobsmacked by the way they have made it. They have actually shot inside fighter jets, which were used at that time. The show is made with a huge patronage from the Defence Forces.

My play, Marry Go Round, is also keeping me busy.
 For 2 years, I didn’t take up a lot of work, as unfortunately, my mother was bedridden and I was looking after her. She passed away last year. All the work that I am doing now is after she left us. Work is picking up now and I think she’s looking after me from heaven and blessing me (smiles).

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