Farhan Akhtar, whose latest film Wazir has just hit the theatres, looks back on his filming days and shares some of his experiences of working with Amitabh Bachchan. Excerpts from an interview:
Have you signed anything after Wazir?
No, I am taking a two-three month break before signing anything. I’ve been doing a lot of things the past year, including a television show I Can Do It. I need to re-charge my batteries.
Well, you certainly wear many hats successfully…
Thank you. Please note I’ve taken the compliment graciously. Thanks to Vidya (Balan) who has taught me to take compliments.
Can you call Wazir a political thriller?
Only a portion of the story is set in Kashmir. But there is nothing political about Wazir. The conflict is personal. What makes the movie special is that at the heart of it, it is this unlikely friendship between two men played by Mr Bachchan and me.
What fascinated you about that friendship?
That these two men are so different from one another. I am a huge admirer of Mr Bachchan. So there was a lot of distancing decorum. One had always heard of his dedication and professionalism. Now I got to experience it. I made Don because I am a Bachchan fan. I learnt so much just talking to him. He is still so excited about every scene. I wish I could be like him about my work at his age!
He doesn’t like that distance?
Yeah. And it’s really cool that he is informal and gets along so well with all his co-stars. But it took me a while to get used to his warmth.
Did you get really pally with each other?
Pally is a bit extreme. But we had some really interesting conversations. He spoke a lot about my father.
How do you assess Bejoy Nambiar as a director?
He has a very sound knowledge of the craft, is very trusting and sensitive towards his actors. Looking at his work one would think technique is his forte. But there is a lot more. He has a keen eye for detail to create the right ambiance.
