The 14th edition of the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne (IFFM2023) closed on a high note with Anurag Kashyap's Mumbai-set thriller, "Kennedy." The event featured the film's lead stars, Rahul Bhatt and Sunny Leone, and provided a platform for Leone to share her thoughts and experiences.
Speaking at the festival, Sunny Leone expressed her gratitude to IFFM for hosting "Kennedy" and her pride in being part of this cinematic celebration.
Interview Highlights with Actor Sunny Leone 
The Anurag Kashyap Experience Working with Anurag Kashyap, renowned for his unique storytelling style, was a remarkable journey for Leone. She spoke of the honor it was to receive a call from him, emphasizing that such calls are rare in her career. To secure her role as Charlie in "Kennedy," Leone had to audition, and she fondly recalled how it all began with that audition.
Challenges in the Making Leone delved into the character of Charlie and discussed the challenge of portraying a character who hides inner turmoil behind laughter. She highlighted the relatability of this aspect, where people often wear a brave face despite facing difficulties in their lives.
A Personal Connection Discussing the film's themes, Leone connected them to real-life challenges, particularly the shared experience of navigating the COVID-19 pandemic. She also underscored the significance of her character, who represents individuals trapped in dire situations, showcasing their resilience and coping mechanisms.
The Cannes Film Festival Standing Ovation Sunny Leone was moved to tears when reflecting on her Cannes Film Festival experience. Recalling the film's premiere at the Cannes Film Festival, Leone revealed the overwhelming emotions she experienced when the audience gave a seven-minute standing ovation. It was a feeling she had never encountered before. The moment signified not only her pride in being part of the film but also her personal journey, marked by struggles and triumphs. 

Balancing Personal and Professional Life Leone has always been a dedicated worker, a trait instilled in her from a young age due to her non-privileged background. Her work is her escape and the means to secure a better future. With children now in her life, they are her top priority. Leone balances motherhood and work, believing that her children should see her as a hardworking, resilient mother.
Sunny as a Mother Leone described herself as strict, maintaining a well-organized household. Her children's schedules are meticulously managed. Leone acknowledges her children's yearning for her presence when she's away for work but believes in setting an example of a working mother who can overcome any challenge.
Looking Ahead In the ever-changing entertainment industry, Leone remains adaptable and committed to her work. Her primary goal is to keep working, irrespective of where the journey takes her. She values the diversity of experiences and opportunities the industry offers.
A Legacy in the Making When asked how she'd like to be remembered, Leone chose descriptors like "hardworking" and "non-quitter." Her journey is a testament to her determination and resilience.
Regrets and Lessons Reflecting on her life, Leone expressed a single regret - not being there sooner when her mother was dying. Despite her regrets, Leone's focus remains on her career and family.
Global Aspirations Leone's aspirations in global cinema are simple - to keep working and embrace whatever opportunities come her way. She believes in the power of change and adaptation in the entertainment industry.
Fun Facts Leone's favorite cuisine is Mexican, and she is proficient in languages like Hindi, Punjabi, English, and a bit of French.
"Kennedy" Takeaway While Leone's role in "Kennedy" may not be the largest, she believes audiences will take away a powerful story, anchored by Rahul Bhatt's exceptional performance and Anurag Kashyap's storytelling prowess.
In essence, Sunny Leone's journey is a tale of determination, resilience, and the unwavering pursuit of her passions.

By Tonee Sethi