She has catapulted in the big league with Sajid Nadiadwala?s Kick opposite Salman Khan, a double role in debutant Vikramaditya?s Roy with Ranbir Kapoor and Arjun Rampal and is in talks for Housefull 3. Jacqueline Fernandez started her career with the disastrous Aladin and despite her gorgeous looks, was referred to as ?plastic?. Unfortunately, her second film, the romantic comedy Jaane Kahan Se Aayi Hai also did not work at the box-office. Although an item song in Housefull brought her in the limelight, it was her portrayal of Priya, a lonely model in a confused relationship in director Mohit Suri?s Murder 2 that completely changed the course of her career. It was her bold and sensuous portrayal and well worked out histrionics that firmly launched Jacqueline?s career in Bollywood.
Says Suri who envisioned the actress as the seductive Priya after her girl-next-door characters in Aladin and Jaane Kahan Se Aaiye Hai, ?I never think of an actor?s past failures when I cast for a film. With Jacqueline, it was her striking urbane visage, and the fact that she was not apologetic about her sexuality was perfect for her to step into Mallika Sherawat?s shoes. I never had any options in mind. Having said that, I must mention her drive for perfection and the hard work that she put in got her the accolades that she deserved.?
After the success of Murder 2, and having found a place for herself, the actress declined offers like Krrish 3 (apparently because of date issues) and a part in the Zanjeer remake. Fernandez?s luck continued as she bagged franchises of hits like Housefull (Housefull 2) and Race (Race 2) which also went on to become big hits. Today Jacqueline is in a good space.
Tipping point: Her impressive portrayal of the sensuous model in the superhit Murder 2
Big ticket projects: Kick with Salman Khan, Roy with Ranbir Kapoor and Arjun Rampal, and in talks for Housefull 3
