Casting Should Always be Script Driven: Vadh 2 Director
The buzz around the film and its content have increased manifold after the trailer launch earlier this week
Vadh 2, although it sounds like a sequel, is not one. It’s a fresh story, but with the same lead cast - Sanjay Mishra and Neena Gupta - who made Vadh the masterpiece that it is, says director Jaspal Singh Sandhu.
The buzz around the film and its content have increased manifold after the trailer launch earlier this week. Sandhu sits down for a chat with Deccan Chronicle ahead of the film’s release on 6th February.
Excerpts from the interview:
The trailer looks extremely gripping. It feels even more intense than your first film. What would you like to say about that?
Yes, this one is more layered and detailed. There were many elements in the story, so it took time to track everything properly. We didn’t move forward until we had complete faith in the script. There were multiple drafts and versions, but that effort reflects in the final output. I believe audiences will connect strongly with it.
You’ve written and directed the film yourself. How challenging was that process?
It was demanding, but fulfilling. Writing this story took time because it had several layers and characters. I wanted every cause-and-effect to feel organic. Only when the story felt honest and complete did we proceed further.
Was this film conceived as a continuation of Vadh 1 or as a fresh story?
That was the first big challenge. I did attempt a continuation and spent about three to four months writing it. While it turned out well, I felt it wouldn’t do justice to Vadh 1. I believe Vadh should happen only once in a story. So, I decided to create a completely new world with new characters.
Is the film inspired by real incidents?
No, not at all. It’s a pure pulp fiction story—completely original and fictional.
The film is releasing in theatres. How does that pressure feel?
I wouldn’t call it pressure—I call it responsibility. Audiences today watch all kinds of cinema: thrillers, mysteries, international films, Malayalam cinema is watched more, people go to theatres for good stories, not just big names. I genuinely believe there’s a strong audience for engaging, story-driven films.
From the trailer, the film seems emotionally intense, especially Neena Gupta’s character?
Absolutely. It’s a situational thriller where emotions play a crucial role. Every character has their own backstory. Neena ji and Sanjay ji are pivotal, but the film is about interconnected lives within a small world. The thrill comes from situations, not gimmicks.
How would you define the genre of the film?
It’s a crime-driven, emotional, situational thriller. At its core, it’s about a common man committing a murder and the chain of consequences that follow. It’s layered and character-driven.
How was it working with Sanjay Mishra? Did you allow improvisation?
I follow a strong pre-production process. I narrated the story to him months before the screenplay was finalized. Once the screenplay was ready, we spent six to seven hours discussing it in detail. Any improvisation happens before the shoot, not on set. Once we’re shooting, the film is already made in our minds.
Senior actors often bring their own perspectives. How was that experience?
When senior actors trust you, they put themselves in your shoes and say, “Take what you want from us.” That trust is invaluable. I feel extremely fortunate that actors like Sanjay Mishra and Neena Gupta had that faith in me.
How was your experience working with Neena Gupta?
She’s extremely professional and sorted. Yes, she’s strong-headed—and she should be—but once she’s on set, she completely becomes the character. Working with her was a great learning experience.
You won an award for your first film. Does that add pressure this time?
Not pressure—responsibility. I follow a simple rule: keep your eyes on the tennis ball, and the scoreboard will rise. If I focus on awards, I’ll miss the craft. I believe audiences recognize honesty in filmmaking, and that’s what I aim for.
Your producer has a reputation for backing meaningful cinema. How did this collaboration happen?
We’ve known each other for a long time. He’s incredibly supportive. Whenever I’m stuck creatively, I discuss things with him and often walk away with fresh perspectives. I’m lucky to have producers and actors like this.
What are you working on next?
I’m developing two to three scripts across different genres—thriller, political thriller, and a situational action comedy. Eventually, one script will stand out and demand to be made.
Do you believe films must be hero-driven?
No. Casting should always be script-driven. I write without keeping actors in mind initially. Once the script is ready, we explore casting options that fit the character’s best. Conviction is key—if I believe an actor can do justice to the role, I go with them.
