Bilal Ashraf has been rather selective about the movies he picks up, however, the budding star has had an impressive run with quite a few hits to his credit, the latest being M&D Productions’ Superstar opposite Mahira Khan. Bilal rose from obscurity initially with 2016’s Janaan and then went on to star in films like Yalghaar, Rangreza and then Superstar this year.
Bilal’s mass appeal and career trajectory run almost parallel to that of Hollywood’s current favorite Keanu Reeves of the John Wick series fame, who also appeared in the massively popular Matrix franchise at around the turn of the millennium. The two indeed share quite a few traits when it comes to cinema…
Initially noticed for good looks
Keanu Reeves rose to fame with movies like Speed in the 90s and later on cemented his mass appeal with The Matrix series of films. His initial ascent to stardom has been termed the most inexplicable in Hollywood, and his acting abilities continue to draw the ire of fans and critics alike. Much of his appeal continues to rely on his mix of unconventional good looks and starring in action laden vehicles that do not hard press his acting skills. On the other hand, Bilal’s thespian abilities also drew some flak in Janaan, but the star has since come off age and his work in Superstar drew much appreciation – many were impressed with the way his acting abilities have shaped up over the years.
Appeal as action stars
Keanu Reeves continues to have a massive appeal as an action star, his latest flick, the third installment in the John Wick series, having grossed over 320 million at the worldwide box office. On the other hand, Bilal experimented with the action genre with some mixed results in 2017’s Yalghaar and the budding star seems to have the right build, mannerisms and body language for an action blockbuster. It would actually be rather neat to have Bilal perform in a sci-fi action piece like The Matrix, with the whole leather trench-coat goth look. Are the movie-wallahs listening?
And they do well in romantic flicks, too
The Lakehouse and A Walk In The Clouds are two films that had Keanu serenading the screen as a romantic lead, and both remain high on the list must watch films for those who prefer the genre. Bilal, on the other hand, is often slotted as a romantic hero given his suave good looks and mass appeal – and his films Janaan and Superstar have received much appreciation from those who like their cinema to be all lovey-dovey. Perhaps we can have Bilal appear in the local remake of The Lakehouse, as well?
Both remain an enigma
The personal lives of both actors has been under much scrutiny. Keanu Reeves over all these years, (and right until a few days back) had been famously single and despite all the paparazzi hunting, not much had come out as far as details about his personal life are concerned. Bilal Ashraf too is apparently single – and not many details have ever surfaced regarding the existence of a significant other either. The personal lives, career success and future moves of both remain an enigma, away from the glaring lights of the press.
With so many similarities, it is impossible to not draw a parallel between the two. Let us know what you guys think in the comments below!
