As Hollywood mourns the death of 27-year-old Russian-born, American actor Anton Yelchin, best known for playing Chekov in the new Star Trek films, closer home, Indian filmmaker Vidhu Vinod Chopra is in deep shock as well. He had directed the rising actor in his maiden Hollywood production Broken Horses last year.

Speaking from France, the filmmaker told Bombay Times, “Initially, I couldn't believe it. But then I got an email from LA that confirmed the news. It was a shock for me. He was only 27.“

Recalling his working experience with the young actor, Vidhu added, “Anton was incredibly talented. He wrote notes to me and Abhijat Joshi every night to discuss the scene we were supposed to shoot the next day. He prepared and analysed the scenes everyday, despite undergoing a comprehensive rehearsal for a week before the shoot commenced. I wish I could pass on his notes to young Indian actors. There was so much to learn from him. Other than being a wonderful actor, he was a nice guy. Even after making so many films, I'll say, Anton made me a better director.“

Vidhu also revealed that the Hollywood actor was aware of Hindi cinema and had plans of visiting India. “Before we started Broken Horses, he saw my films and had liked Eklavya. I will always remember Anton as the guy who would lip sync to 'Ek Ladki Ko Dekha Toh Aisa Laga' on set and stretch his arms out like Shah Rukh Khan.