Riz Ahmed's 'Bait': A Journey of Self-Criticism and Identity

Riz Ahmed, who won an Academy Award in 2022 for his live-action short film 'The Long Goodbye,' acknowledges that he often serves as his own harshest critic. He recalls a moment two years after completing the 2016 series 'The Night Of,' when he found himself revisiting scenes in the mirror, striving for perfection even after receiving accolades for his performance.

This relentless pursuit of acceptance and the struggle against one's inner critic is central to Ahmed's new Prime Video series, 'Bait.' In this show, which he both wrote and stars in, Ahmed portrays Shah, a struggling British Pakistani actor who auditions for the role of the next James Bond. As news of his audition spreads, Shah's life begins to mirror that of the character he aspires to play, with an emphasis on his desire for acceptance rather than embodying a villain.

Ahmed notes that the show's narrative explores the negative self-talk that Shah experiences. He believes that Shah embodies a universal struggle, highlighting the significant gap between our public personas and the vulnerable realities of our private selves.

The title 'Bait' carries multiple meanings, according to Ahmed. In British slang, it refers to being overtly attention-seeking, while in Arabic and Hebrew, it signifies 'home,' and in Urdu, it connotes loyalty. He explains that while the show incorporates elements of a spy-thriller, the term 'bait' metaphorically encapsulates the complexities of the narrative.

While 'Bait' is not solely about James Bond, the character serves as a potent symbol of success and aspiration. Ahmed describes Bond as the epitome of cinematic achievement, representing qualities like decisiveness and invulnerability. In Shah's pursuit of this ideal, the series prompts questions about self-identity and the cost of ambition.

Ahmed aims to create a series that blends various genres, including spy-thriller, romantic comedy, and surreal elements. He emphasizes the importance of this tonal diversity, reflecting the multifaceted nature of life itself. 'Bait' features a range of episodes, including one themed around Eid, showcasing the show's eclectic style.

Working alongside Patrick Stewart in 'Bait' was a significant experience for Ahmed, who describes Stewart as a consummate professional whose generosity and empathy as an artist left a lasting impression on him.

Reflecting on his own journey, Ahmed recalls his initial encounters with Shakespeare as a British Pakistani teen, feeling that such literature was inaccessible. However, a supportive teacher introduced him to 'Hamlet,' and Ahmed found resonance in the character's feelings of alienation.

Ahmed is set to star in a new adaptation of 'Hamlet,' which he views as a reflection of contemporary society's struggles with unfairness. He emphasizes the need for the adaptation to resonate authentically and avoid becoming a mere performance of Shakespeare.

His background as an MC has influenced his appreciation of Shakespeare, particularly in terms of rhythm. Ahmed believes that the emotional engagement of poetry and rap parallels the experience of Shakespearean verse, advocating for a view of Shakespeare that highlights its musicality and rhythm.