What observers say
“I remember waking up in the middle of the night, two years after I wrapped on [the 2016 series] The Night Of, and going to the mirror and redoing scenes that the whole world had already seen,” shares Riz Ahmed, reflecting on the intense self-criticism that often accompanies the life of an actor. This sentiment resonates deeply within his latest project, the series ‘Bait’, which he wrote, created, produced, and stars in.
In ‘Bait’, Ahmed portrays Shah Latif, a struggling British Pakistani actor who auditions to become the next James Bond. The character’s journey is not just about the pursuit of fame but also about navigating the complexities of identity and acceptance in a world that often feels alien. “I think actually there’s a lot of Shah in all of us, more than we like to admit,” Ahmed notes, highlighting the universal struggle for recognition and belonging.
The show, which blends elements of spy thriller, family comedy, and psychological unraveling, explores the inner turmoil of its characters. Ahmed explains, “The show isn’t really about James Bond, but James Bond is a very important symbol because he is the ultimate symbol of success.” This juxtaposition of aspiration and reality is a central theme in ‘Bait’, as it reflects the pressures faced by those in the entertainment industry.
In British slang, ‘bait’ refers to being blatant and attention-seeking, while in Arabic and Hebrew, it means home, and in Urdu, it signifies loyalty. These multifaceted meanings enrich the narrative, allowing audiences to connect with the characters on various levels. The series also features surreal episodes and romantic comedy elements, showcasing Ahmed’s versatility as a creator.
Ahmed’s journey to this point has not been without its challenges. He has often felt alienated from classic works, including Shakespeare, until a teacher introduced him to ‘Hamlet’. This connection has influenced his artistic expression, particularly in his upcoming adaptation of the play, which opens in theaters this spring. “Hamlet is a story and its character who is grieving the illusion that the world was ever a fair place,” he reflects, drawing parallels between the struggles of Hamlet and those faced by his character Shah Latif.
As Ahmed continues to break barriers in Hollywood, he remains a voice for those who feel marginalized. His previous roles in acclaimed projects like ‘The Night Of’ and ‘Sound of Metal’ have earned him recognition, including an Oscar for best live-action short film. With ‘Bait’, he aims to further explore the themes of acceptance and the pursuit of dreams, resonating with audiences from all walks of life.
As the series gains traction, viewers are eager to see how Ahmed’s portrayal of Shah Latif will unfold and what new insights it will bring to the conversation about identity in the modern world. The anticipation surrounding his adaptation of ‘Hamlet’ adds another layer of excitement to his already impressive repertoire. Riz Ahmed’s journey is not just about personal success; it is a reflection of the broader struggles faced by many in the quest for acceptance and understanding.
