Showing posts with label Bawaal. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Bawaal. Show all posts
Dharma Productions make you feel valued. Your vision is respected-Nikhil Mehrotra
11:12 PM
Contrary to belief that writers have little agency in filmmaking, Mr & Mrs Mahi writer Nikhil Mehrotra says makers adhered to his vision when roping in Rajkummar-Janhvi for the sports drama
Mohar Basu (MID-DAY; May 30, 2024)
Writer Nikhil Mehrotra has three sports dramas in his resume—Dangal (2016), Panga (2020) and the upcoming Mr & Mrs Mahi. But he refrains from slotting them in the genre. To him, the sport is secondary.
“The story is about people and their emotions. If Panga was just about kabaddi, would it land? No, it had to be a woman’s story who leaves the sport and returns to it. With Mr & Mrs Mahi, I was excited about telling the story of cricket and a couple,” he explains.
Starring Rajkummar Rao and Janhvi Kapoor, Mr & Mrs Mahi revolves around a doctor whose husband—a former cricketer—discovers her talent for the game. The drama marks Mehrotra’s reunion with director Sharan Sharma after Gunjan Saxena: The Kargil Girl (2020). “It’s a blessing working with people who understand what you are trying to say even before you say it. He is aligned with my vision.”
Unfortunately, writers are often perceived to be at the bottom of the rung, having little to no say on how their material shapes up on screen. But Mehrotra says he has been lucky with Sharma and the studios he collaborated with so far. “My opinion has always mattered. Take this film for example—my opinion was sought on casting. I was expected to be there at the shoot. Dharma Productions make you feel valued. Your vision is respected, and when it is put on screen, your opinion is sought. I’m grateful to have only worked with those who value others’ creative opinions.”
This film marks the writer’s return after the polarizing Bawaal (2023), which was deemed insensitive by many for drawing parallels between a married couple’s woes and the horrors of the Holocaust. A year on, as he looks back, how did the discourse affect him?
“It impacts a writer. A part of society loved it. When I met creators and writers, they asked a lot of questions. We had expected that when we wrote the film.” But is there room to make an outrageous film today? “Outrageous can have many interpretations. Due to social media, the flak and opinions have multiplied. So, we are more mindful.”
You name the director, and I think I have worked with them all, and I feel grateful for that-Varun Dhawan
8:34 AM
Onkar Kulkarni (BOMBAY TIMES; January 1, 2024)
Varun Dhawan is all excited to step into 2024. The actor whose film Bawaal released on an OTT platform in 2023, says that he is looking forward to being back in the theatres this year. In a chat with us, he talks about his many firsts in the year to come and the goals he has set for himself. Excerpts:
In 2023, you started working on a quintessential massy actioner (VD 18), a genre which is the flavour of the season, along with your first web series (Citadel). Were both the experiences drastically different?
Shooting for VD 18 has been very exhausting because there’s a lot of action, which I have never done on this scale before. Yes, this film will introduce me in a different light, so I am excited and scared at the same time. I have grown up watching these kinds of films. My favourite action entertainers have been Hum and the many Manmohan Desai films, which also boasted of family values. I have loved watching Salman Khan and Ajay Devgn actioners. With this genre, true human emotions reflect through your characters and maybe that strikes a chord with the audience. About the web series, it was really interesting to work in this format, which is longer, and I feel that way, you get so much more time to set the world and establish your character.
Shooting for VD 18 has been very exhausting because there’s a lot of action, which I have never done on this scale before. Yes, this film will introduce me in a different light, so I am excited and scared at the same time. I have grown up watching these kinds of films. My favourite action entertainers have been Hum and the many Manmohan Desai films, which also boasted of family values. I have loved watching Salman Khan and Ajay Devgn actioners. With this genre, true human emotions reflect through your characters and maybe that strikes a chord with the audience. About the web series, it was really interesting to work in this format, which is longer, and I feel that way, you get so much more time to set the world and establish your character.
While a lot is in store for you this year, you didn’t have a theatrical release last year. How would you describe the year gone by?
2023 was more of a working year for me. I wanted to concentrate on making films. The idea was to not let go of the craft and try to get better at it. I was shooting non-stop and it was a lot of work. Everything that I shot for will release in 2024. Sometimes, when you are trying to push the scale of your film, it is not easy. I had to try and do it differently. I have not had the biggest films mounted with me in them, and now I want to try to make my movies look bigger to get people more excited and get them to the theatres. When you make big films, it takes longer! But overall, I didn’t have a release in theatres last year. I am excited about returning with a film in theatres in 2024.
2023 was more of a working year for me. I wanted to concentrate on making films. The idea was to not let go of the craft and try to get better at it. I was shooting non-stop and it was a lot of work. Everything that I shot for will release in 2024. Sometimes, when you are trying to push the scale of your film, it is not easy. I had to try and do it differently. I have not had the biggest films mounted with me in them, and now I want to try to make my movies look bigger to get people more excited and get them to the theatres. When you make big films, it takes longer! But overall, I didn’t have a release in theatres last year. I am excited about returning with a film in theatres in 2024.
Your OTT film Bawaal created some amount of bawaal after its release. Will that experience discourage you from experimenting with films and subjects, something that you like to do from time to time?
I have never been scared of taking risks. Imagine, I have played a wolf in a film! This (such experiments) keeps you alive as an actor. But I missed doing mass genre for a long time, so that is what I have returned to at the moment. So, is 2024 a year of experiments? Not really! It is just a year of action for me. Bawaal was a very special experience. I loved shooting for it and putting it out. We got a lot of love on OTT, which is great. I would love to do one more film with Nitesh Tiwari (director of the film). He’s an amazing filmmaker. I also feel that the audience resonates more with my funny side, so I plan to do two comedy films soon.
You have spent more than a decade in Bollywood, and have done a range of roles – from out and out commercial films to experimental ones. Do you feel a lot of your potential is still untapped?
I think everyone feels that, but I am not the kind of person to cry foul. I believe that you have to be very happy with what happens in life and create your own opportunities. I think that’s what being an actor is all about. There are many opportunities for all actors. So, underutilized? No, I think I have had the opportunity to work with such great filmmakers. I have worked with Shoojit Sircar, Nitesh Tiwari, Sriram Raghavan, David Dhawan, Karan Johar… you name the director, and I think I have worked with them all, and I feel grateful for that.
I think everyone feels that, but I am not the kind of person to cry foul. I believe that you have to be very happy with what happens in life and create your own opportunities. I think that’s what being an actor is all about. There are many opportunities for all actors. So, underutilized? No, I think I have had the opportunity to work with such great filmmakers. I have worked with Shoojit Sircar, Nitesh Tiwari, Sriram Raghavan, David Dhawan, Karan Johar… you name the director, and I think I have worked with them all, and I feel grateful for that.
In Citadel, audience will see new side to Raj and DK's creativity-Varun Dhawan
8:32 AM
Teaming up with Raj-DK for the first time, Varun Dhawan on how the director duo’s Citadel is distinct from its US counterpart
Letty Mariam Abraham (MID-DAY; October 8, 2023)
It was a pleasant surprise to catch a glimpse of Varun Dhawan in Richard Madden and Priyanka Chopra Jonas’s Citadel, created by the Russo Brothers. While the US version opened to mixed reviews earlier this year, closer home, there is much anticipation around the Indian version of Citadel that has been helmed by Raj-DK (Raj Nidimoru, Krishna DK).
“Ours will be a completely different [story] since it is Raj-DK’s independent vision,” begins Dhawan, as we catch up with him at a Booking.com event that saw him playing cricket with Zaheer Khan.
With the spy thriller, the actor will make his OTT series debut. He couldn’t have asked for a better debut vehicle—the Amazon Prime Video offering not only has international resonance, but also marks his first collaboration with Raj-DK, who have cracked the long-format storytelling with The Family Man, Farzi and Guns & Gulaabs. An admirer of the director-duo’s previous work, Dhawan claims that viewers will see a new facet of their creativity.
“Raj and DK have been a joy to work with. They are legends in the streaming field, and as directors, are wonderful to team up with. The audience will see a new side to them.”
Teaming up with Samantha, whom he describes as a “supportive co-star”, made the experience more fulfilling. “There was a lot of give-and-take between us. We broke the ice at the first meeting, and when you act, you form a new rhythm. I try not to work with people if they are not professional.”
On the films front, Dhawan’s Bawaal received mixed reviews, but he is not perturbed. “Everyone is allowed to have their opinion. Bawaal did phenomenally well on the platform, it was topping the [platform’s viewership] charts every week. That is not something we were [orchestrating], people were watching it. After that, there were discussions—some were in favour of it, some were against it. That is true of every film. But the film got everyone interested. It started a conversation. A lot of people have loved the film, and as actors, we seek validation. I thought I got enough validation.”
Is web now Bollywood's safety blanket?
8:46 AM
A number of star-led projects these days are headed directly to digital platforms, ditching theatrical release. We decode
Sugandha Rawal (HINDUSTAN TIMES; July 29, 2023)
What’s common among Shahid Kapoor-starrer Bloody Daddy, Varun Dhawan and Janhvi Kapoor-starrer Bawaal and Blind, featuring Sonam Kapoor Ahuja? Its makers ditched a big screen release and took the direct-to-OTT route. Amid the supposed resurgence of the box office, looks like makers consider the web a safer bet to release films.
The box-office performance of Indian films has marginally dipped, though Hindi movies have shown improvement, according to Ormax Media’s bi-annual report. Could this be a reason for the increase in the number of web-first releases?
Trade expert Atul Mohan says, “Makers feel going to OTT is a safer bet and streaming platforms also want big names, to get subscribers. When makers sense a film will not work, they strike a deal with a streaming platform and also save money on marketing. If the budget of a film is Rs. 65 crore, they usually spend Rs. 10-15 crore on promotions.”
FROM THE STREAMER’S MOUTH
According to Manish Kalra, chief business officer at ZEE5 India, the trend has a lot to do with the creative freedom the web offers: “From Salman Khan’s Radhe (2021) to recent hits Sirf Ek Bandaa Kaafi Hai (starring Manoj Bajpayee) and Tarla (featuring Huma Qureshi and Sharib Hashmi), the [web] space provides creators a platform to connect with the audience, map preferences and bring stories with more compelling narratives.”
NOT A ONE-SIZE-FITS-ALL CONCEPT
Trade expert Taran Adarsh feels what’s meant for the big screen should head there: “For instance, in the case of Zara Hatke Zara Bachke, a lot of people said it is meant for OTT and that it will not make even Rs. 10 crore at the box office. But, it has made close to Rs. 90 crore, all because the producer took a big risk and released it in theatres. Makers should never underestimate the power of good cinema.”
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Whoever has put in money [in a film] should benefit, irrespective of the medium of release. I’d want all my films to be released on the big screen, but I understand the commercial aspect. So, as long as it is benefiting everybody and reaches viewers, I don’t mind where they (his films) release.
- Sharib Hashmi, actor
Producers are looking at the OTT space as a safer bet over the big screen. And that is fine. As long as a film is released somewhere... Kahin na aaye, usse better kahin toh release ho!
- Anees Bazmee, director
In the beginning, I was always referred to as Nitesh Tiwari’s wife-Ashwiny Iyer Tiwari
8:37 PM
(From left) Ashwiny Iyer Tiwari; a still from Tarla
Pushing for gender equality with her movies Bawaal and Tarla, filmmaker Ashwiny on how she faced casual sexism in the early years of her career
Priyanka Sharma (MID-DAY; July 22, 2023)
At first glance, the worlds of Bawaal and Tarla have nothing in common. One is about a small-town teacher who accepts his vulnerabilities, the other about a Mumbai homemaker who realises her strengths and becomes a famous home-chef and cookbook author. But to producer Ashwiny Iyer Tiwari, they are bound by a common thread. “Our stories evoke empathy, inspiration and aspiration in the audience,” she reflects.
Yesterday, Varun Dhawan and Janhvi Kapoor’s Bawaal dropped on Amazon Prime Video. Telling a story of self-discovery, Nitesh Tiwari’s directorial venture is introspective, and poles apart from the larger-than-life entertainers that most filmmakers are churning out. To Iyer, it is an attempt to create hunger for different stories in the audience.
“While discussing Bawaal, Nitesh said, ‘Until we give something new to the audiences, how will they know whether they want it or not?’ As storytellers, it’s important to tell such stories. For instance, the essence of Tarla comes from how, during the lockdown, all of us watched homemakers’ videos in which they shared wonderful recipes.”
Based on the life of famous home-chef Tarla Dalal, the eponymous biopic premièred earlier this month. The Huma Qureshi-starrer holds a special meaning for Iyer for its ability to make women across ages feel seen.
“The story of Tarla is from ages ago, but it’s resonating with the younger audience [because] they have seen their mothers go through the same [experiences]. Huma has breathed life into the film. Sharib [Hashmi] was so happy that he called and said, ‘Thank you for choosing me to headline a film,’” recounts Iyer.
Even as her work, as a director and a producer, continues to subvert gender roles, Iyer says she faced casual sexism at the beginning of her career. She says it took some time for the media to treat her professional identity separate from that of her filmmaker-husband.
“In the beginning, I was always referred to as Nitesh Tiwari’s wife. Nitesh would feel bad about it. He would say, ‘You are an equal director. What is this all about?’ But then, there was one article that referred to Nitesh as Ashwiny Iyer Tiwari’s husband. I felt a sense of happiness because change had taken place. Now, it has become a blind spot; it doesn’t matter that we are married,” smiles the director, who is currently writing a film based on Devika Rani and Himanshu Rai’s love story.
(Crisp) Movie Review: BAWAAL by FENIL SETA
10:48 AM
Bawaal, which has released today on Amazon Prime Video, tells an interesting story in a novel and unconventional manner. The entry scenes of both actors are superb. The conflict is well-established and the film goes many notches higher when the madness shifts to Europe. After a long time, one will see a comic relief track in a Hindi film and it's refreshing. The emotional scenes make an impact. However, the World War II angle gets a bit heavy after a point. Also, the desired impact is not made as it's repetitive. The finale is predictable and stretched. The performances, however, are superb. Both Varun Dhawan and Janhvi Kapoor are terrific and show a marked improvement in their acting. Manoj Pahwa (Ajju's father) and Anjuman Saxena (Ajju's mother) are dependable. Prateek Pachori (Bipin) is too good. Vyas Hemang (Kalpesh) is hilarious. Mukesh Tiwari is okay. All in all, Bawaal is a decent watch. It could have been much better but full marks to the team for attempting something hatke.
My rating - *** out of 5!
Fenil's Bollywood Talk # 787
3:49 PM
TWO BIG HOLLYWOOD FILMS TO CLASH IN CINEMAS; BOLLYWOOD BIGGIE TO ARRIVE STRAIGHT ON DIGITAL
We often hear of two big Bollywood films clashing but rarely does this happen for Hollywood flicks. But tomorrow will be an exception as Oppenheimer and Barbie are all set to arrive in cinemas across the world. In India, such clashes result in fights over screen sharing. That won’t happen with these two films as both are distributed by Warner Bros in India. Also, it’s fascinating to see social media going crazy over this clash and coming up with funny posts, all in good humour.
Oppenheimer is directed by master filmmaker Christopher Nolan. It is the story of the man who designed the first atomic bomb. The trailer is intriguing and there’s a lot of hype over seeing this film in cinemas, especially in IMAX screens. In India, which has limited IMAX theatres, the ticket rates have been hiked considerably. PVR Lower Parel, for instance, is selling its recliner seats for a record Rs. 2450! Despite such rates, the shows are sold out. But the bookings in non-IMAX screens are decent at best. Yet, an opening of Rs. 10 crores plus is expected which is tremendous for a film of this kind, which is not the typical commercial fare. In fact, the opening can be as high as Rs. 14-15 crores. Whether it sustains and whether it manages to cross the Rs. 100 crore mark remains to be seen.
Barbie, meanwhile, is based on the iconic doll of the same name. The trailer is colourful and it looks like a complete family entertainer. Despite the feminine feel, even the male moviegoers are looking forward to seeing the film. Not much was expected from it in India but its advances have surprised everyone. The film can open in the range of Rs. 5 crores or higher.
Lastly, Bawaal will release directly on Amazon Prime Video. It stars Varun Dhawan and Janhvi Kapoor in the lead and is directed by Nitesh Tiwari of Dangal and Chhichhore fame. It is a story of a dysfunctional couple in modern times and there’s a World War II backdrop. The film was supposed to release in cinemas and there was a lot of hype around it. But once it decided to skip a theatrical release, a lot of eyebrows were raised. Meanwhile, the trailer has met with mixed reactions, making many wonder if there’s anything wrong with the film due to which it didn’t make it on the big screen. Nevertheless, the curiosity to see Bawaal is very much there and it will get huge viewership.
We often hear of two big Bollywood films clashing but rarely does this happen for Hollywood flicks. But tomorrow will be an exception as Oppenheimer and Barbie are all set to arrive in cinemas across the world. In India, such clashes result in fights over screen sharing. That won’t happen with these two films as both are distributed by Warner Bros in India. Also, it’s fascinating to see social media going crazy over this clash and coming up with funny posts, all in good humour.
Oppenheimer is directed by master filmmaker Christopher Nolan. It is the story of the man who designed the first atomic bomb. The trailer is intriguing and there’s a lot of hype over seeing this film in cinemas, especially in IMAX screens. In India, which has limited IMAX theatres, the ticket rates have been hiked considerably. PVR Lower Parel, for instance, is selling its recliner seats for a record Rs. 2450! Despite such rates, the shows are sold out. But the bookings in non-IMAX screens are decent at best. Yet, an opening of Rs. 10 crores plus is expected which is tremendous for a film of this kind, which is not the typical commercial fare. In fact, the opening can be as high as Rs. 14-15 crores. Whether it sustains and whether it manages to cross the Rs. 100 crore mark remains to be seen.
Barbie, meanwhile, is based on the iconic doll of the same name. The trailer is colourful and it looks like a complete family entertainer. Despite the feminine feel, even the male moviegoers are looking forward to seeing the film. Not much was expected from it in India but its advances have surprised everyone. The film can open in the range of Rs. 5 crores or higher.
Lastly, Bawaal will release directly on Amazon Prime Video. It stars Varun Dhawan and Janhvi Kapoor in the lead and is directed by Nitesh Tiwari of Dangal and Chhichhore fame. It is a story of a dysfunctional couple in modern times and there’s a World War II backdrop. The film was supposed to release in cinemas and there was a lot of hype around it. But once it decided to skip a theatrical release, a lot of eyebrows were raised. Meanwhile, the trailer has met with mixed reactions, making many wonder if there’s anything wrong with the film due to which it didn’t make it on the big screen. Nevertheless, the curiosity to see Bawaal is very much there and it will get huge viewership.
Bawaal's trailer might look complex but the film is quite simple, relatable, say Varun Dhawan, Janhvi Kapoor
9:01 AM
The actors talk to Bombay Times about their upcoming Nitesh Tiwari directorial
Onkar Kulkarni (BOMBAY TIMES; July 19, 2023)
Varun Dhawan and Janhvi Kapoor teamed up for the first time on screen for Bawaal, which is releasing on Amazon Prime Video this Friday, July 21. The film focuses on their characters’ troubled relationship with references to World War II. The latter assures that while the trailer might look complex, it is quite a simple film with a unique and relatable storyline.
The duo talks to Bombay Times about their dream coming true with finally getting to work with Nitesh Tiwari and why Bawaal is meant for an OTT release.
The premise of Bawaal, where a newly-wed couple go on a honeymoon only to face trouble in their relationship, and then, references of World War II apparently used as a metaphor – sounds like a complex love story. Is this what attracted you both to the story?
Janhvi: Though the trailer might look complex, and maybe emotionally it is too, the film is quite simple, relatable, and has a relevant thought. It was the simplicity of this film that drew me to this project. Also, it was a big deal to get to work with Nitesh Tiwari. When you have a good thought and a good story on paper, then half the battle is won.
Varun: Nitesh Tiwari is one of those rare, original writer-directors in our country. He’s not borrowing from anyone or any cinema. So, whatever he does is pretty much original, and it is always great to be part of some original piece of work. The film is quite simple, but the way the trailer has been cut is to keep people intrigued. It is Nitesh sir’s choice, and he doesn’t want to let the audience know what the film is all about till they watch it. Overall, it is about image, perception... it is about how we live our lives today trying to please others. A Nitesh Tiwari film is, of course, a no-brainer to say yes to.
The film conveys a message – that every love story has its own war. In real life, do you resonate with that thought when it comes to your own relationships?
Varun: I do resonate with the thought. Love does face a lot of trials and tribulations, be it before you are falling in love or after you have fallen in love. On one hand, there’s this thing about being in love, and on the other hand, it’s about staying in love and trying to make your love story work. It is easy to break away from a relationship than to be in one forever. You have to fight the world and fight the odds for love to last. Like, Ajju and Nisha’s (their characters in the film) love story is pretty unique and will resonate with a lot of people who are just married or about to get married.
Janhvi: I am sure every relationship comes with its own history and baggage. Even with your friends... you go through a period of having a fight and not talking for a couple of months. When you start missing the person, is when you realize that you are being silly, and you come back together even stronger. When we lost mom (Sridevi) our whole family dynamics changed. It took us a while, in fact, we are still working on it, to find out what this new family dynamic meant. We went through something that was so catastrophic that we were all at war with ourselves and then we found a way back to each other, trying to understand what our individual relationships meant while dealing with the loss.
The film was meant for a theatrical release and is now releasing on Amazon Prime Video. How did you react to the sudden change of plans?
Varun: This film has the potential to reach a global audience, which not all films have. Once the film was ready, we felt that this could be our chance to reach out to a bigger audience. Amazon Prime Video have been great partners as they have really pushed the film to achieve that global reach. We are releasing in 200 countries (and territories).
I have an Anil Kapoor reference for my role-Varun Dhawan
9:00 AM
Counting Bawaal as a film that takes him beyond a mainstream hero, Varun on how director Tiwari guided him to perfect the part
Mohar Basu (MID-DAY; July 19, 2023)
Currently, the belief in the industry is that big-ticket movies are the secret to box-office success. It is Varun Dhawan’s beat, something he can do effortlessly. Yet, the actor has chosen the introspective Bawaal as his next.
To explain the move, he points to a Harivansh Rai Bachchan quote. “Mann ka ho toh achcha, na ho toh aur bhi achcha. My mother always quotes this couplet to me that talks about believing in the divine plan. It’s as if the universe had a different plan for me and I followed it,” begins the actor.
After meeting director Nitesh Tiwari multiple times with no specific project in mind, Dhawan was offered Bawaal. The Amazon Prime Video offering is a romantic drama as well as a story of self-discovery, and relies heavily on the leads’ chemistry. Dhawan says he couldn’t have asked for a better co-star than Janhvi Kapoor, but is quick to add that their first meeting was awkward.
“The first time I met her was at a party, after the film had got confirmed. She was happy to see me and was probably going to hug me. But her joy went a notch above, and she broke the glass in her hand. I was amused by her, and the more I got to know her, I realized that she is one of a kind.”
Armed with a good co-star, a solid script and Tiwari’s guidance, Dhawan went into the world of Bawaal. “Nitesh sir and I would talk about my character a lot. How does Ajju talk? What are his relationships like? I have a strong Anil Kapoor reference for Ajju. One of the technical changes Nitesh sir made was to make me say my lines slower. He would act out the emotional scenes. That’s the benefit of working with a writer-director; you know exactly what the vision is. When I did October [2018], it was similar—I surrendered to Dada [Shoojit Sircar].”
With Bawaal, Dhawan wants to go beyond the mainstream hero and do films that satisfy the artiste in him. His conviction has strengthened after working with Tiwari. “My takeaway is that if one works with a good writer and director, the performance will be good. I went through introspection and signed three films—Bhediya, JugJugg Jeeyo and Bawaal. These films have given me the strength to choose different [stories]. If you do good work, it will work. You can’t care too much about what everyone thinks.”
Arguments, if civilized, are healthy and make us better as creators-Nitesh Tiwari
8:25 AM
With Bawaal making references to World War 2 and Hitler, director Nitesh on navigating social media debates and scrutiny around the film
Mohar Basu (MID-DAY; July 16, 2023)
Our history makes us who we are. It was probably this one line around which director-writer Ashwiny Iyer Tiwari wrote Bawaal, not knowing that the movie would land in filmmaker-husband Nitesh Tiwari’s kitty.
“The story came from Ashwiny based on her life experiences with my dad. She wanted to take my father to the locations of World War 2. She was developing it for herself, but got busy with other projects. When I had a window, I asked her if she would be kind enough to part with it. My writers and I developed it further over the next two years,” begins Tiwari.
In the Amazon Prime Video offering, Varun Dhawan plays a small-town history teacher, whose trip to Europe with his wife becomes a journey of self-discovery. What made him choose mainstream stars Dhawan and Janhvi Kapoor for such an internalized film? Tiwari says he was guided by the characters.
“Physically, I needed Ajju to be dominating. Nisha is vulnerable, but she is a volcano that erupts when she stands up for herself. I have interacted with these actors without having any work in mind. On a personal level, they are artistes who are genuinely seeking good work. That stayed with me. It wasn’t an easy decision for them. My films are complex and require focus. We do workshops and extensive readings before we go on floors. I don’t prefer surprises on the floor.”
Bawaal, though a love story at its core, impresses upon us a timely tale of kindness. “My ideology and values show in what I make. One of the strongest feelings is empathy, and that can’t be compromised upon. We walked out in lockdown with food packets in our hands, helping people we didn’t know. This feeling makes the world a much better place,” says the director.
Even as his filmography includes blockbuster Dangal (2016) and Chhichhore (2019), he terms Bawaal—which makes references to World War 2 and Hitler—his most radical work to date. Is he worried about the quick opinions on social media?
After a pause, he says, “I’d take opinions of people seriously, but I wouldn’t bother about a few odd voices. Four of us write [a script], we argue before anything goes on paper. Arguments, if civilized, are healthy and make us better as creators.”
Bawaal in Dubai: You start believing in yourself a lot more when Nitesh Tiwari shows confidence in you-Janhvi Kapoor
8:22 AM
From Varun-Janhvi decoding how Bawaal changed them as actors, to a seven-year-old influencer stealing the show, mid-day brings you all the dope from the film’s Dubai trailer launch
Mohar Basu (MID-DAY; July 11, 2023)
Docked in Dubai’s Port Rashid is Queen Elizabeth 2, a ship-turned-floating-restaurant that was the venue for the trailer launch of Varun Dhawan and Janhvi Kapoor’s next, Bawaal. As the trailer of Nitesh Tiwari’s directorial venture was unveiled, one understood why it required a global venue.
“Our history is what makes us,” noted producer Ashwiny Iyer Tiwari, as she narrated the story of her father-in-law, an erstwhile history professor who wanted to take a world tour to see the places he taught his children about for decades. Unfortunately, he never took that trip. Tiwari and Iyer made Bawaal as an homage to his unfulfilled desire.
In the Amazon Prime Video offering, Dhawan plays a small-town history teacher, whose trip to Europe turns out to be a journey of self-discovery.
Being a part of the “internalized film” turned out to be a moving experience for the actor, who said, “As an actor, it’s difficult to be fearless. Image becomes paramount to everyone’s identity. That’s why [doing] a film like this is crucial. It takes you closer to the truth, and makes you re-look at your priorities.”
His sentiment was echoed by the film’s leading lady. “When you do a film like this, it changes you intrinsically,” emphasized Kapoor, who has been choosing unconventional movies over the past three years. “You start believing in yourself a lot more when a man like Nitesh Tiwari—who knows his craft well—shows confidence in you. I learnt so much about the kind of person I want to be, and the films I want to do.”
Even as the movie is set in the present day, it makes references to the Second World War. How does it tie in, in the narrative? Tiwari, the mind behind Dangal (2016) and Chhichhore (2019), didn’t divulge details, only saying, “In the past, I’ve seen my work have some positive impact. Hopefully, this won’t be any different. The film’s setting will be clear once people see the movie, but the story is about how we look at life and relationships. Everything is governed by our values in life, which change as we evolve. Bawaal is about how cataclysmic [events] change us.”
Given the film’s theme, producer Sajid Nadiadwala was certain about releasing it on a wide scale. The OTT offering will be released in 200 countries, in multiple languages.
The event’s highlight, however, was seven-year-old Dubai influencer Kashvi, who strutted up to “Varun bhaiyya” and asked him what made him want to be an actor. Humouring her, Dhawan said, “You are my inspiration. I never want to lose my ability to have childlike excitement and glee like you.”
Varun Dhawan-Janhvi Kapoor's Bawaal trailer to be unveiled at grand fan event in Dubai on July 8
8:18 AM
Mohar Basu (MID-DAY; July 1, 2023)
Last week, mid-day reported that Varun Dhawan and Janhvi Kapoor-starrer 'Bawaal' will have its première in Paris (Global première in Paris for 'Bawaal', June 23). Now, it looks like Nitesh Tiwari’s directorial venture has a few more destinations on its itinerary before it drops on Amazon Prime Video on July 21. It has been learnt that the makers have decided to launch its trailer in a grand event in Dubai.
July 8 will see the lead actors headline the fan event in the desert emirate. “The makers are expecting a turnout of about 150-200 fans. It is supposed to be an experiential event that will give the fans a feel of the film. The do will be attended by Varun, Janhvi, Nitesh, producer Sajid Nadiadwala, and Aparna Purohit, Head of Originals at Amazon Prime Video,” says a source.
The idea of having global promotional events is said to be in keeping with 'Bawaal’s' narrative that sees Dhawan’s character travel around the globe. The source adds, “The makers zeroed in on Dubai for the trailer launch as it is a melting pot of cultures and has a large Indian population.”
The Paris première will be held closer to the movie’s direct-to-web release.
Anees Bazmee and I will work together at some point; it’s only a matter of when-Varun Dhawan
8:28 AM
Having realized his wish of collaborating with Nitesh on Bawaal, Varun eager to work with south filmmakers Lokesh and Atlee
Priyanka Sharma (MID-DAY; December 23, 2022)
If 2022 has been a year of introspection for Varun Dhawan, he is approaching the coming year with only one thing in mind: action. The actor will open the year with Bawaal, which gave him the opportunity to collaborate with Nitesh Tiwari — a director who had long been on his wish-list. Working with the filmmaker was everything he had hoped for.
“I am excited about Bawaal. Ajju bhaiyya is a character I loved playing. The film will be a fun ride,” he says of the love story that also features Janhvi Kapoor.
Besides Bawaal, the actor has the Indian version of Citadel, helmed by Raj-DK, in the pipeline. Rumours also suggest that he will team up with director Anees Bazmee for an action comedy. “Anees sir and I will work together at some point; it’s only a matter of when. But right now, there’s nothing [on the cards]. He is making another film.”
While Bazmee is certainly on his wish-list, some more directors have piqued his interest with their distinct voices. “There are so many directors I want to work with — from Lokesh Kanagaraj, to Atlee. I would also love to reunite with Shashank Khaitan and Amar Kaushik.”
Chances of Dhawan reuniting with Bhediya director Kaushik are high. Fans are speculating that the actor will be seen in a cameo in the director’s next, Stree 2, after Stree’s leading man Rajkummar Rao made an appearance in Dhawan’s monster comedy.
“Dinesh Vijan [producer] and Amar are keen to revisit the Bhediya character. You saw Stree’s characters [make an appearance] in Bhediya, and now, [it will be vice versa].”
Lokesh Kanagaraj and Atlee
Increased film shoots in Lucknow gets the moolah rolling in
8:28 AM
Increased venue and local artistes prices and also number of shoots has led to the city getting a good revenue from shoots of films, web shows and television serials in the past year
Iti Shree Misra (LUCKNOW TIMES; October 9, 2022)
Cameras are back in motion in Lucknow as films, web series and television shows shootings are in full swing in the city that continues to be a hot favourite destination for the film makers. Post Coronavirus pandemic, as various sectors are back to work, so is the movie business. After a hiatus of two years, shoots are back in Lucknow with a bang, feel the stakeholders of the industry.
“Although the pandemic was a very dull phase for us work-wise as no shootings were taking place and those which had been planned also were postponed, yet the past year has been a very busy one for us,” says Aroon Singh Dicky, line producer in Lucknow and Uttar Pradesh who’s worked on projects like the web show Mirzapur with Pankaj Tripathi, Ali Fazal, Rangbaaz with Vineet Singh, films Uunchai with Sooraj Barjatya, Amitabh Bachchan and Bawaal with Varun Dhawan and Jahnvi Kapoor in recent times.
“It’s been a hectic year for us shoot wise,” says Ashish Jain, another line producer in Lucknow who’s managed shooting of Chhatriwali in the city.
With several projects being shot simultaneously, the tribe of line producers in the city has also increased. “Now it is not just films but also regional films, web series and television shows that are being shot in not just Lucknow but across the state. And because of that there is more demand for line producers and technicians in UP. That has led to a lot many people taking up the work of line producers,” says Yogesh Tripathi who has worked on projects like Kanjoos Makkhi Choos with Kunal Kemmu, Gadar 2 with Sunny Deol.
The increase in the number of shoots has also led to an increase in the revenue earned by the city from production houses. “There has been a marked increase in the prices of private properties that we shoot in,” says Ashish Jain. “Although the government has not increased its fees, private players have hiked the amount they charge from production houses,” says Dicky.
If earlier the fees charged for a single day shoot at a house in Lucknow was 20-30 thousand per day, it has increased to around 50,000 per day, depending on the project and the production house, say line producers.
“The fees of the local artistes has also increased in the past couple of years,” says Ashish. “Local actors can now charge anything from Rs. 3000 to 15,000 these day and the fees for a crowd for each person can range from anywhere between Rs. 800-1500,” he adds.
PROMINENT FILMS AND SHOWS SHOT IN LUCKNOW
- Bhaukal 2
- Khuda Haafiz 2
- Jamtara 2
- Bheed
- Chhatriwali
- Mirzapur 3
- Bawaal
- Rangbaaz 3
- Vikram Vedha
- Chhatriwali
- Gadar 2
- Jahan Chaar Yaar
- Dasvi
- Bhool Bhulaiya 2
Our commercial fares need an upgrade-Varun Dhawan
8:13 AM
Stating that JugJugg Jeeyo has a brave message, Varun keen to do movies that marry progressive thinking with entertainment
Mohar Basu (MID-DAY; June 16, 2022)
When we sit down for a chat with Varun Dhawan at a suburban hotel, he notes that the past two years have been personally gratifying for him. The actor married his childhood sweetheart Natasha Dalal, and became a pet parent. What’s the one learning that stood out for him? “That no one knows anything,” he chuckles, before saying that the thought extends to the current state of Hindi cinema as well.
“The box-office rules have changed [after the pandemic]. As an actor, I could either be daunted or make peace with the fact that we are all navigating an uncertain phase. Back in the day, I knew what clicked with the audience. Now, I strongly believe stories that are steeped in Indian emotions will connect [with viewers].”
He believes that JugJugg Jeeyo walks that line. Raj Mehta’s directorial venture, also starring Anil Kapoor, Neetu Kapoor and Kiara Advani, explores the subject of divorce. Dhawan elaborates, “It is a progressive film and a thorough entertainer, complete with masala and music. The film balances both male and female gaze accurately, and delves into the everyday emotions in marriage. Some messages in the film are essential viewing for men in today’s times. When I first read the script, I cracked up. During the workshops, we added depth to the material.”
The actor’s last release was the problematic Coolie No 1 (2020). But now, he admits that he is drawn to movies that don’t stop at entertainment. “Sometimes, we watch entertaining films, but sit back at the end and say, ‘Yeh ending toh galat hai na.’ JugJugg Jeeyo consciously [avoids] that. We have tried to be brave with the message we want the audience to take back. Most Hindi films on infidelity have chauvinistic undertones in the garb of comedy. They reinforce populist thinking. Here, we discussed the ending again and again.”
He adds, “Divorce is a massive deal in this country. Despite that, the film’s ending is the way it is. We wanted to do right by the audience.”
Now on, the actor wants to consciously do movies that don’t reinforce problematic thinking. “Something changed within me when my niece [Niyara] was born. We care for her so much and want to protect her. I want everyone to treat her the way I do at home. Is the world we are creating with our work pushing for that? Small normalizations — for instance, a guy can do this and a girl cannot — like these have to be broken.”
While Dhawan has been true to his identity of a commercial Hindi film hero, he also featured in offbeat movies like Badlapur (2015) and October (2018). Will this desire to get cash registers ringing deter him from taking that stray risk once in a while?
“My current line-up has Bhediya and Bawaal. They are [mainstream] movies, but they come from directors like Amar Kaushik and Nitesh Tiwari. So, the desire to experiment remains. I will do commercial potboilers, but I want to do more than what I was doing 10 years back. Our commercial fares need an upgrade.”
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