New Delhi: Decades back, during the 80s, which was also referred to as the golden period of action cinema, only those with a sturdy build dominated the big screen. Even though the likes of Arnold Schwarzenegger and Sylvester Stallone had carved out a niche for themselves in the mainstream cinema and won huge plaudits, Jean-Claude Van Damme succeeded in becoming a household name. For someone who couldn't fathom the English language, making it big in Hollywood was certainly a lofty ambition. But Jean-Claude, undeterred by the formidable obstacles he had to combat, left the sleepy Belgium to pursue his ambition of becoming a movie star and conquered Hollywood.
Jean-Claude, who launched 'Advantage Hollywood', an autobiography by Hollywood-based Indian filmmaker Ashok Amritraj and attended the CII Big Picture Summit during his recent visit to the capital, reveals to IBNLive.com how despite the stilted command of the English language, he made inroads into Hollywood, his dream to work with Robert De Niro and why he calls his way to know the Almighty smart.
The road to success for Jean-Claude was never easy, and he dealt with all detours with indomitable spirit and determination along the path to becoming a successful actor. "My struggle to become a successful actor is a long story. I had done several menial jobs during my stay in Los Angeles. There was also a phase when I had to clean houses. That's not all. I even worked at a parking lot for free, but I accepted the job as it allowed me to sleep where I worked. I thank God that at that time all the gyms used to open early in the morning. I would show up in the gym, do my workout sessions, train myself everyday without anybody trying to control or complain against me. I used to do karate kicks in front of anybody linked with the film industry. So even though I faced hurdles, I kept myself motivated," he recalls.
As Van tells us it was his different accent, much like that of Arnold Schwarzenegger, that also helped him get close to Ashok. The fact that both were outsiders, both literally and figuratively, and left no stone unturned to wow Hollywood, made the two forge a bond. "I met Ashok in 1984 and the bond has evolved in the last so many years. We were friends much before 'Double Impact' happened. But the film did help our bond a lot. I have always loved Indian food at Ashok's place, it is just amazing. He has managed to charm Hollywood with his work and a genuine smile," he adds.
After he achieved stardom with 'Bloodsport', a big hit to his credit, and a string of successful projects - 'Cyborg', 'Double Impact', 'Universal Soldier' and 'Timecop' - which soon followed, he became resolute about turning his dream of being a star into reality. The prima donna action star, who thanks his admirers and fans for helping him earn huge popularity, makes sure he does everything to make them feel special. That's why he doesn't throw tantrums, but look blissfully happy when his fans ask for an autograph, pose with them for quick photos, flexes his muscles even as he grins at the cameras.
As I spoke to Jean-Claude, his real life look was a far cry from the violent and window smashing rage he often flies into (best shown in his films). He not only wows his hardcore supporters by flaunting his cheeky mood, but does almost everything - from flinging his leg up in the air to winking all of a sudden - to make the meeting unforgettable.
"I have had several crazy fans. I think if people try to ape me that's just a way to show their love and passion for me and my work. So meeting the craziest admirers is understandable. I also have to admit that when I started out, I used to be an ardent fan of Bruce Lee and Arnold. I would put up their posters and practice a lot, all over the place. So yes, I can relate to those fans who try to pull off my stunts. Had these people not appreciated my work, I couldn't have managed to be where I'm today. It is only because of their unconditional love that I have reached so far," he says.
As expected, his habit of flexing his muscular guns does leave many intimidated. "At times I have had fans come to me for an autograph when I'm having my meals. There have been many who are too shy and shiver when they ask for a photo. But if I don't greet them the way they expect, they will go back home thinking 'I idolised this man for years and he isn't what I had thought of him'. That thought is hurtful. I'm a sensitive person and I don't want to hurt anyone," adds the movie hardman.
Jean Claude, who in an interview had said that God helped him to defeat his drugs addiction, also revealed his spiritual side to us. "I believe in God in a smart way, which is about how we all are part of his creation. But I can't go deep into that because I don't think people understand the cosmic real which is the universe. We all have the tendency to put ourselves beneath God. But in reality, we have to be at the same level. Because when a couple creates a child, they want the child to be better than them. So by putting ourselves beneath God, we are insulting Him. By putting ourselves into a good shape with God, we not only get a lot of confidence, but also feel very special. Religion is a nice way to control people. I like to pray to Him in my own way. I think the God is within us, than the churches or any other place," he explains.
Having spent close to two decades in the film industry, the Muscles from Brussels, as he is fondly called, still has a few professional desires which haven't been fulfilled yet. "The only problem in Hollywood when I came here was that since I was so good in martial arts, I became popular for my large catalogue of action movies. But with consistent efforts, I went on to become a good actor. I' m better than a lot of big names I know there. I can still do great physical stunts. But I would like to work with people like Robert De Niro and many other actors of those times. I just hope that it happens some day," he says.
Hopefully, thing will prove lucky for him in Bollywood too. For Jean, who knows about the global impact of Indian cinema, Bollywood venture is an interesting option. As he performs desi Bollywood steps with jaw-dropping ease and perfection, leaving many stunned, it is only obvious that he will be comfortable doing the same moves in Indian movies too. "Bollywood steps are easy, provided I get a good mentor," he says. Well, acting in Indian films isn't difficult either, Damme!
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