NEW YORK — While Freida Pinto doesn't see herself as a role model, the 30-year-old actress understands there's a huge responsibility that goes with being in the public eye. That's why she regards every film role as a potential catalyst for change.
"One of the reasons I do a film like 'Desert Dancer' is that I hope it starts a global conversation," Pinto said.
The film is based on Iranian dancer Afshin Ghaffarian, who risked his life by simply forming an underground dance company. He eventually sought political asylum in France.
Pinto finds it hard to believe that people can be punished for making art, but is not entirely surprised by it.
"I never thought that six kids that make a music video to Pharrell's 'Happy' could get arrested, either," Pinto said, referring to an incident that happened last year in Iran.
In "Desert Dancer," which expands to additional theaters on Friday, Pinto plays a fellow dancer who escapes her oppression by smoking heroin. Ghaffarian has said in his memoir that heroin use is unofficially promoted by the Iranian regime to keep students docile.
Recently, Pinto sat down with The Associated Press to discuss the film, the kind of roles that are important to her, and her support for the banned documentary "India's Daughter," which tells the story of the brutal gang rape of Jyoti Singh. The remarks have been edited for clarity and brevity.
Associated Press: Dance is something we take for granted, but in Iran, it can result in beatings and imprisonment. Were you surprised by the film?
