Would you agree that Salman Khan-starrer Kick was the turning point of your career?
Yes. After Kick, I signed four films. I don't want to waste what Salman Khan gave me and it will be a shame if I don't make the most of it. This is a very important period of my life and my career, so I keep telling my friends and family that I need their support.
What's your equation with Salman? And what's your take on the comment he made on you with reference to the Kick sequel?
I was there when he said it (Salman Khan said that Jacqueline has been 'kicked' out of Kick sequel). I don't think he meant it the way it was perceived. Salman never means harm to anybody and I think a lot of times, he is misunderstood. I am not a part of Kick 2, but what's the big deal? Salman gave me the first part of Kick and I think it's a big enough deal. I respect him on whatever decision he takes.
Many B-Town actresses are doing women-centric movies (Piku, Queen, NH10...). So when do we see you doing one?
Soon, I hope; the right film has to come along. Kangana (Ranaut)and Deepika (Padukone) are taking it to the next level and they are setting standards for us as well. Now, we know that we cannot do mediocre work anymore. We cannot play safe any longer. There is a certain standard that has been set and we have to meet it (pauses). I am putting my best foot forward. After Brothers, I have Dishoom with Varun Dhawan and Flying Jat with Tiger Shroff.
Will you work with Sajid Khan again (Jacqueline was in a relationship with Sajid for more than two years)?
Why not? I don't mix my personal and professional lives.
Buzz is, you are dating Arjun Kapoor...
The truth will be out soon (bites her lip).
What about your international projects?
I was doing a movie with Jackie Chan. It's an Indo-Chinese project but the film has been put on hold right now because of some issues from their side. It's not shelved, it's just put on hold. My other project is Definition Of Fear (DOF). It's a movie about four girls wherein I play a psychiatrist, who deals with people who experience fear. DOF will release this year.
The interview will be incomplete without Brothers - your next film up for release. Tell us, what made you choose a male-dominated film?
Actually, I asked myself if I should I do a movie like Brothers or not. But trust me, it's a very challenging role; it's a role that many actresses have not essayed. I had to play a mother. When I sat with Karan Johar (producer) and Karan Malhotra (director), they said I could pull it off. I don't know how it's like being a mom, so I wondered if I could play one convincingly. Karan Malhotra sat me down and helped me to understand what emotions a mother goes through (pauses).
And then?
And then I was ready.