First Copy Stars Speak: Munawar, Krystle & Ashi Share Behind-the-Scenes Moments

The theme of First Copy is as real as it is relevant — as it tackles a serious issue like piracy in an entertaining manner. Recently, the cast of First Copy sat down for an interview where the trio candidly spoke about why they chose the project, their personal experiences, thoughts on piracy, being compared to stars, and much more. Let’s find out what Munawar, Krystle, and Ashi had to say.

Why did you choose this as your debut project? Was there a specific reason?

Munawar – I’m not a star kid, so I didn’t have many options to choose from. I went with the offer I got — and I’m glad I did. This is my first web series in which I’m playing the lead, and the story is completely unique and offbeat. As soon as I read the script, both the character and subject felt so innovative that I instantly said yes.

What attracted you most about the script of First Copy?

Munawar – I loved the unique storyline. It’s not just a drama — it has thrill, crime, and strong social commentary.
Krystle – What stood out for me was how beautifully the series presents a real and serious issue like piracy. It’s not just about entertainment — it makes you think.

Tell us a little about the characters you’re playing.

Krystle – I’m playing an actress from the 90s, which was very nostalgic for me. Living in an era I never actually experienced was truly exciting.
Munawar – My character Arif is a street-smart hustler. He’s not hardworking but clever. He’s a hero to some and a villain to others.
Ashi – I’m playing Afreen, Arif’s wife — and she’s even smarter than him. She’s a modern, witty girl — gives him ideas and even supports him in his schemes!

Since the series is based on the issue of piracy — do you remember the first pirated film you ever watched?

Munawar – Of course! Who hasn’t seen one? I remember watching a pirated VCD of Shah Rukh Khan’s Mohabbatein. My dad or uncle had brought it home in the village. The quality was terrible, but we still watched it — it was something!
Krystle – We weren’t allowed to watch TV at home, so my brother and I used to secretly watch pirated films. The quality was awful, but we still craved movies.
Ashi – I never even realized whether a film was original or pirated. If I got a movie to watch, I just watched it!

Did this experience feel so close to your real life or profession that you felt like you were playing yourself?

Krystle – Absolutely! This was a very different and fun experience for me. In my 16–17 year career, this was the first time I played a character so closely related to my real profession. It felt a little odd at first, but as the shoot progressed, I really enjoyed it.

What was the most memorable moment during the shoot?

Krystle – A song sequence shot in Mauritius was the most special for me. It had minimal dialogues, but the chemistry and energy between all characters really came alive on screen.

Why should audiences watch First Copy?

Munawar – This series is not just a story — it’s based on a deep wound of the industry: piracy. It shows how piracy is not just the theft of a film but the theft of an artist’s dreams and hard work.

What does piracy mean in today’s times? Is it still a threat?

Krystle – Earlier we had to buy VCDs — now you can get movies with just one click. But OTT platforms have reduced piracy to an extent because you get everything at good quality right at home.
Munawar – Piracy still exists, it’s just changed form. Now people simply forward links.

If someone compared you to a big star, who would you want to be compared with?

Munawar – I wouldn’t mind being compared to Shah Rukh Khan!
Krystle – If someone says I’m a mix of Deepika Padukone and Madhubala, my day is made.
Ashi – I find comparisons with Alia Bhatt.

You can now watch First Copy starring Munawar Faruqui, Krystle D’Souza, and Ashi Singh on Amazon MX Player.

Tags: First Copy Premiere | Krystle d'souza | Krystle D'Souza TV Shows | Krystle D'Souza Upcoming Projects | Krystle D'Souza Interviews