Showing posts with label Toofaan. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Toofaan. Show all posts
I feel happy when television actresses reach out to me and look up to me-Mrunal Thakur
8:08 AM
Onkar Kulkarni (BOMBAY TIMES; April 18, 2022)
Mrunal Thakur is thrilled that Jersey is all set to hit the theatres after a long wait. The film’s team faced many hurdles with its release due to the pandemic. In a chat with Bombay Times, she elaborates on her smooth transition from TV to films, how filmmakers are now offering her author-backed roles and who is her inspiration in cinema. Read on...
You waited for nearly two years for the film to release in theatres. It’s finally releasing this week. Are you relieved?
I am just overwhelmed. I have waited for this film to hit the big screen for so long. I have worked really hard on this project, and I am happy that people will finally get to see it. I play the role of a mother in this film, something I haven’t experienced in real life, and so I drew references from my mother for the part. That apart, I had two releases last year —Toofaan and Dhamaka. The former was meant for a big-screen experience. It was really disappointing that the audience could not get a theatrical experience as it was released on OTT. The film was designed for a theatrical release. So, I am finally happy that a film like Jersey, with which I have been associated for over two years, is finally releasing on the big screen.
The makers decided to stick with their decision to release the films in the theatres instead of heading for the OTT space. Why was it important for a movie like Jersey to stick to its theatrical release plans?
It’s a film that’s full of mixed emotions. The characters are so relatable that the film deserves to be watched uninterrupted in a cinema hall. Often, when you watch a film on OTT, you are subjected to distractions. This is that kind of a film which will give you joy... something that will make you want to celebrate and begin a conversation about. Also, the scenes are aesthetically shot for a big-screen experience. Like, all the cricket shots you see are not computer graphics. You can see depth in the scenes, like the movement of the ball when Shahid plays cricket or the expression of people sitting in the audience when they are watching the match. Also, I am sure that once people watch the film, they will go to their parents and thank them for whatever they did for them. I want to dedicate this film to my mom and dad. My dad retired last month, and so I am very emotional about it. I am grateful to him for all the things he did for me so that I could reach where I am today.
You have come a long way...from moving out of your hometown Dhule (Maharashtra), to starting your career in the TV industry, making Mumbai your home and finally, plunging into Bollywood. Who has been your role model?
My inspiration has been Smita Patil. Whenever I used to visit my dad’s native place in Shirpur (in Dhule), he would show me a house that belonged to Smita Patil. I think she was way ahead of time. It takes lots of guts to do the kind of films she did. While growing up, I saw her movies, and one of my favourites was Mandi. I wish I had an opportunity to act with her. She has been my idol, and just like her, I want to do something extraordinary in my career. I want people to know me for my films. I want to inspire them. Today, I feel proud that I inspire many television actors. I transitioned from TV to films, and I feel happy when television actresses reach out to me and look up to me.
Television actors have always struggled to break that image and make the transition. Even if they get a break, it gets tough for them to sustain and find acceptance in Bollywood. How has it been so far for you?
I broke the image right from my Hindi debut film, which was Love Sonia. Nobody expected a TV actor to take up an arty film, instead of a typical masala venture as their launchpad. It is because of Love Sonia that people have taken me seriously as an actor, leading to me bagging stronger roles. Even in my last films, Toofaan and Dhamaka, I was very happy with the parts I got. With my work, I want to break stereotypes and set an example. I just want to say that earlier I was surviving, but now, I am living my life as an actor. And I have earned it all on my own, and nobody can stop me from living my dream. I want to be a part of stories that resonate with people, and I am glad that filmmakers are showing faith and trust in me. I am getting to meet my dream directors. I am in a very good phase of my career right now.
While you have been playing strong characters, do you also wish to play the quintessential lead heroine in a movie?
I have realised that the term ‘lead’ is very misleading. I learned that right when I was doing my TV show Kumkum Bhagya. I was very adamant that I only wanted to play the lead. I was signed as the lead, too, but eventually, it went into the second lead space. I realised it didn’t matter because I still won immense popularity. What matters is what impact you leave on the audience. Lead koi bhi ho, lekin kabhi kabhi asli masala dussre characters mein hota hai. These characters constantly add to the story and the narrative. I am new to the industry, and I don’t want to rush. I want my first 10 movies to be my learning ground. And then you need to wait and watch for my 11th or 12th film. I want to improve and take risks, too.
I have been spoiled by Farhan and Rakeysh, who gave me so much courage and confidence to play this part-Mrunal Thakur
8:05 AM
Mrunal Thakur, who has earned a Best Actor: Film nomination at the Hitlist OTT Awards for Toofaan, discusses how she was drawn to her character’s independent streak
Mohar Basu (MID-DAY; March 3, 2022)
When we get on a call with Mrunal Thakur to discuss her Best Actor (Female): Film nomination at the mid-day and Radio City Hitlist OTT Awards, she reveals that she happened to meet Vidya Balan the day the nominations were announced. “My family was overjoyed when they realised that I am in the same category as my favourite actress,” says Thakur, whose performance in Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra’s Toofaan has made her a contender for the trophy.
A quick glance at the Best Actor (Female) list, and it is easy to notice the shift in Bollywood. Women characters no longer service the leading men of movies. While Toofaan tells the story of Farhan Akhtar’s character, Thakur’s Ananya is a catalyst to the narrative. “Farhan and Rakeysh sir are so comfortable in their skin that they don’t need to diminish the shine of the women, to make their hero shine. I am grateful to Nikkhil Advani who showed some footage of Batla House [2019] to Rakeysh sir, which helped me get an audition. It’s a big deal to learn under Rakeysh sir at such a nascent stage in my career.”
The opportunity to work with Mehra aside, Thakur was drawn to the film as it consciously subverted several industry tropes, and highlighted a woman’s agency over her life decisions. “There is a scene at Bandra Fort, in which Ananya kisses Ajju [Akhtar’s character]. We’ve seen women being [wooed] by men in movies. This is a small change, where she takes the first step and doesn’t wait for the man to [woo] her. Filmmakers need to write more of such characters where small steps towards owning agency are established.”
The actor asserts that depicting independent women on screen effects changes, big and small, in ways we can hardly imagine. She cites an example where a woman thanked her for sporting short hair in Toofaan. “She said, ‘When I saw you, I asked my mother-in-law and husband that if an actress can have short hair, why can’t I? I finally got their permission to cut my hair short.’ After that conversation, I wondered why a young woman thinks she needs permission to decide on the length of her hair. Normalising women with agency on screen has a permeating impact. I have been spoiled by Farhan and Rakeysh, who gave me so much courage and confidence to play this part.”
Did you know
This was the first time Paresh Rawal and Farhan Akhtar worked together in a film. The boxers in Toofaan were all real-life boxers
Cast your vote for the Hitlist OTT Awards
Mrunal Thakur has been nominated in the Best Actor (Female): Film category for Toofaan. The other nominees are:
- Kiara Advani (Shershaah)
- Konkona Sen Sharma (Geeli Pucchi, Ajeeb Daastaans)
- Sanya Malhotra (Pagglait)
- Taapsee Pannu (Rashmi Rocket)
- Vidya Balan (Sherni)
Log on to www.radiocity.in/hitlistawards to cast your vote.
You can also vote via SMS. Send HITLIST <space> category name <space> your choice (a/b/c as on the website) to 57575.
Voting lines close on March 18.
Being an actress, it is difficult to find a partner-Mrunal Thakur
8:20 AM
While her career is on an upswing with films like Jersey, Mrunal discusses how professional demands and insecurities take a toll on actors’ love lives
Uma Ramasubramanian (MID-DAY; December 25, 2021)
Most actors will tell you that they chose a film because their character spoke to them. But Mrunal Thakur surprises us by saying that she initially didn’t identify with her role in Jersey. “The love story resonated with me, but [understanding] the ’90s portion was difficult,” she begins. The actor plays a pragmatic wife who has to run the house after her husband’s cricketing dreams are shattered.
“Initially, it was difficult to [identify] with her because she was born in the ’70s. I [questioned] her actions. But Shahid [Kapoor] made me understand that it [would be difficult] for a woman in the ’90s to have a husband who doesn’t earn. He is at home, eating the bread that his wife has earned; that would be humiliating in that era [when people believed in gender roles]. I did the film because I haven’t seen such an emotional story in a while.”
The remake of Gowtam Tinnanuri’s 2019 Telugu film of the same name sees Thakur share screen space with Kapoor, whom she considers a generous co-actor. “I don’t have anybody to guide me. Shahid saw the fire in me and realised that I don’t know how to channel it. He made sure I brought out the best in me.”
Jersey winds up 2021 for the actor, who was also seen in Toofaan and Dhamaka. While she bags prominent films, her detractors may argue that her characters are overshadowed by her male counterparts. “People keep asking me why I play safe, but I don’t think I do. I go with the flow and want to make the most of the opportunities. I hope after Jersey, filmmakers trust me enough to cast me in risky and challenging roles.”
Where it’s easy to see that her career is on an upswing, little is known about Thakur’s personal life. Quiz her on it, and she indicates that the demands of the profession take a toll on love. “I don’t know about other professions, but being an actress, it is difficult to find a partner. As humans, we get insecure. It’s better to let go of people who are insecure. I don’t want my partner to tell me, ‘You can’t do this film.’ The only lover I have is the camera. If anyone wants to be with me, that’s great, but it’ll be tough.”
I found a friend in Shahid Kapoor. I will never tire of praising him-Mrunal Thakur
6:48 PM
Mrunal, who plays strong-headed wife to Shahid’s character in Jersey, says she is sending out a clear message with her choice of roles
Mohar Basu (MID-DAY; November 30, 2021)
The past few weeks have been busy for Mrunal Thakur. She was recently seen in Netflix’s Dhamaka, post which she released the poster of her next, Aankh Micholi. The high point of the month was launching the trailer of Jersey that sees her alongside Shahid Kapoor. “I am overwhelmed, but I am not feeling the pressure. The pandemic had slowed down my work. All the films I had shot for are now [releasing]. I live to entertain my audience, and no matter how bad my day is, I come to life when I face the camera,” begins Thakur, grateful for the promising line-up of projects.
Jersey, the official adaptation of the 2019 Telugu film of the same name, sees her play wife to Kapoor’s character — a former cricketer struggling to make peace with his fate. Their romance weathers a storm, altering their relationship in the Gowtam Tinnanuri directorial venture. For a story that hinged on the chemistry of the leads, Thakur says she found the perfect co-star in Kapoor. “I found a friend in Shahid. I will never tire of praising him. He is such a focused actor, and owns his character. I learnt the quality from him.”
A quick look at Thakur’s filmography makes one thing evident — regardless of the screen time, each of her movies has her playing a well fleshed-out and strong-headed character. The actor says it’s no coincidence. She is mindful of her characters’ arcs and the films’ messaging. “I have made sure the women I play are firm and have a voice of their own. I am happy that through films like Toofaan, Dhamaka and Batla House [2019], I am sending a message out. Enough being supportive, or playing the victim card in films. Women play an important role in men’s lives; it should be presented that way. They don’t have to be shown as bechari. Many women will relate to my part in Jersey. Women look forward to a secure future for themselves and their kids. My character is strong, speaks her mind and [does] what she wants.”
Aamir Khan is my biggest inspiration. I am also inspired by Farhan Akhtar’s boxer avatar in Toofaan-Pulkit Samrat
8:07 AM
Onkar Kulkarni (BOMBAY TIMES; September 23, 2021)
Pulkit Samrat often shares inspiring fitness posts on social media. While the actor has always been a fitness enthusiast, he’s been working hard on getting his body in shape for his upcoming roles. The actor tells us, “For Suswagatam Khushaamadeed, I am sporting six-pack abs, but for Fukrey 3, I have to look leaner. I was to begin the shooting in February for the latter, so I had to let go of my muscles and start becoming lean. I had already begun my physical transformation, and we were just 10 days away from starting the shoot.”
Pulkit says, “The plan went for a toss due to the second wave. Now we know that Fukrey 3 might begin by the end of the year.”
Meanwhile, the actor is soon to start shooting for the pending portions of Suswagatam Khushaamadeed for which he has to slip into his muscular avatar once again. “I am working hard towards getting the chiselled body back for which I am following a strict regime and I am posting it all on social media,” he says.
Ask Pulkit if this constant body transformation takes a toll on him, and he says, “I won’t call the process taxing, but challenging instead. If Aamir Khan can do it at his age, then why can’t I? When it comes to body transformation, Aamir is my biggest inspiration. Lately, I have been inspired by Farhan Akhtar’s boxer avatar in Toofaan. Working out is like meditation for me. It helps me clear my head out, I feel as if this is an outlet to sweat out all the stress.”
While he awaits the next schedule of Suswagatam Khushaamadeed to roll soon, he is also eagerly looking forward to catching up with his Fukrey buddies. “We were just an inch away from beginning the shoot of Fukrey 3, and now waiting for so many months for the project to roll again is so painful. I can’t wait to spend time with the gang on the sets. From Varun Sharma, Manjot Singh, Ali Fazal, Richa Chadha, Pankaj Tripathi to the director Mrighdeep Singh Lamba, we know each other so well and are thick friends. We are so close-knit that we can complete each other’s sentences during a conversation (laughs!).”
Piracy is at an all time high in the age of OTT releases
8:18 AM
Black Widow to Shershaah, this year’s most-awaited films were pirated soon after their digital release. What makes OTT platforms so vulnerable?
Niharika Lal (BOMBAY TIMES; August 29, 2021)
Ahead of their digital release in India, Black Widow and Cruella have both been available on pirated films’ websites here for months, following their international streaming release. Not just Hollywood, even the latest Bollywood flicks like Shershaah, AK vs AK, Mimi, Toofaan, Sardar Ka Grandson, and Roohi were immediately available on such sites post their digital release in India. Pirated versions of most films released on digital platforms are made available before or on the same day through links on WhatsApp and Telegram groups. In some cases — like Salman Khan-starrer Radhe, which released in May this year — pirates have been daring enough to even announce the sale of the movie on Facebook after its release and three persons were arrested under relevant sections of the Information Technology Act and the Copyright Act in this particular case.
People from the industry find piracy with regard to OTT releases especially worrying, as not only can the films be pirated easily after they release digitally, but also because illegally downloadable versions of the films are just as good in quality as the originals.
‘UNLIKE BEFORE, NOW QUALITY OF PIRATED FILMS AT PAR WITH ORIGINAL’
Yogesh Raizada, an exhibitor, says, “Easy availability of high quality downloads of latest releases is worrisome. Earlier, pirates would record in cinemas and only poor quality versions were available on pirated films’ websites. People used to also avoid watching pirated films because of bad quality.”
Many avid streamers tell us they watch pirated content because it’s free and high definition versions are easily available. One user says, “I’m already paying for broadband. Now, if I start paying for every service that I use online, then what’s the point? Also, I don’t download pirated films. My friends send links.”
Another user says, “I don’t download Japanese, Spanish or Korean films, as in most cases the subtitle file is missing, and it is impossible to understand these without them. I only watch Hindi and English films on websites with pirated films.”
WHY DON’T FILMMAKERS COMPLAIN AGAINST OTT PIRACY?
Few arrests have been made related to OTT piracy, as according to Anyesh Roy, DCP, Cyber Cell, Delhi Police, they haven’t received any complaints yet. So, what is stopping the producers from taking collective action? Lawyers say that while streaming content and pirates have moved on to far better technologies, the law has not caught up yet and that’s why enforcement of the Copyright Act is difficult.
There are several steps that can be taken to stop piracy. Vivek Narayan Sharma, a Supreme Court lawyer, says, “Producers should contact the police if their film is pirated and ensure that an FIR is registered, so investigations can follow. The reason why producers stay away from any legal action is because of the long procedure, but film piracy is a mass violation of copyright. Platforms where these films are circulated should also be made a party to it and it is the liability of these platforms to remove the content. Last year, newspapers went to the Delhi High Court stating how their PDF copies were shared through chats and the court ordered that unauthorised dissemination be stopped. If producers or film bodies will contact the court or the government will step in to create a mechanism then it can be stopped. The court can give an injunction to stop its circulation on unlicensed platforms if it is pirated.”
Vivek Sood, a senior advocate of Delhi High Court says, “Piracy of content from streaming platforms can be stopped by three methods. First, better security of content which can’t be bypassed (and if they get to know about software which assists in piracy, they can contact the court). Two, make content easily accessible and cheaper. Third, take action against organised piracy rackets i.e. go to court to get websites blocked or complain against pirates, as any action taken sends out a message to others.”
On the other hand, an official from an OTT platform points out that when titles are released all at once around the world on streaming services, it instead helps address piracy and protects the creative community’s hard work. They add, “Platforms like ours have economical subscription plans which cost less than `200 a month, which also has helped in fighting piracy as people can watch content on their own terms without any hassles rather than resorting to piracy.”
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‘IT’S NOT DIFFICULT FOR PEOPLE WITH SOFTWARE KNOW-HOW TO COPY FILMS FROM STREAMING WEBSITES’
As per an international publication, Black Widow star Scarlett Johansson’s recent lawsuit against Disney listed “piracy” as one of the reasons she was against the makers releasing the superhero film simultaneously in theatres and on digital platforms. The National Association of Theatre Owners, Los Angeles, in its statement issued in July, said, “Piracy no doubt further affected Black Widow’s performance, and will affect its future performance in international markets where it has yet to open. Pristine digital copies became available within minutes of release on Disney+. Black Widow was the most torrented movie for the week ending July 12. It is also available on myriad illegal streaming sites all over the internet. This was also the case for all simultaneous releases (Wonder Woman 1984, Godzilla vs Kong, Cruella, Mortal Kombat, etc).”
Sunny Nehra, a cyber expert, says, “Most streaming platforms use DRM protection. Pirates use screen recording and other tools specially developed to crack DRM. It is not that difficult to crack for software developers or those who work in this field.”
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CAN YOU BE ARRESTED FOR WATCHING A PIRATED FILM?
Let’s say your friend forwarded you the link to a movie downloaded from a pirated website or which was shared on an unlicensed platform. Or suppose you go on a pirated website to watch a film. Can either of these actions land you or your friend in jail? Vivek Sood, a senior advocate of Delhi High Court, says, “Downloading a film/web series/documentary from an unlicensed platform is a violation of intellectual property rights. But you can’t be arrested. Under Section 51 of the Copyright Act ‘reproduction of a literary, dramatic, musical or artistic work in the form of a cinematograph film shall be deemed to be an infringing copy.’ However, Section 52 clearly states that private viewing is not an infringement. What does that mean? It means if you forward it to others or sell it, then it is an infringement and you can be arrested.”
However, Sood adds, “While you can’t be arrested, for watching pirated content, you can still be hauled up, restrained and the OTT platform which has the original content can even ask you to pay for the damage (fine) if you watch their content from an unlicensed platform.”
Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra, who has nurtured the idea for past five years, plans to make a movie on plight of farmers
8:34 AM
Uma Ramasubramanian (MID-DAY; August 19, 2021)
Even as he was making Toofaan with Farhan Akhtar and Mrunal Thakur, another idea was sprouting in Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra’s head. The filmmaker has long been keen to bring the plight of Indian farmers to the big screen. “I have been living with the idea for several years. But you can only do one thing at a time. When I get into a film, I tend to completely lose myself in that world and forget about [other concepts],” he says, admitting it’s high time he put pen to paper and gave shape to the story.
Over the past year, India and the world at large have been witness as the country’s farmers have vociferously protested against three farm acts that were passed in Parliament. Quiz Mehra whether his movie is inspired by the recent movement, and he says, “I have been working on the idea for the past five years. The film is not about farmers’ protest. India has predominantly been an agricultural society, and yet we haven’t seen movies that are based on rural India. For our cinema to become global, we will have to tell truly Indian stories, and not just present popular ideas to the world.”
However, he remains non-committal whether the drama will be his next as he signs off with, “There will be a time when I will tell that story.”
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Navneet Vyasan (HINDUSTAN TIMES; August 19, 2021)
Like many others, National Award-winning filmmaker Rakyesh Omprakash Mehra, too, didn’t expect the pandemic and lockdown to drag on so long. “The lockdown was announced just after I finished shooting for my last film Toofaan. Initially I was not sure how long it would stretch out. There was so much left to be done. But we somehow managed. After the completion of our work, there was a lot of time left for me,” says the 58-year-old.
This is when he went back to doing what he loves best — reading. “I love reading books about movies and that is what I did,” he says, adding, “Since I was a kid, I loved reading screenplays and stories on how films were made — be it Hindi, Malayalam, Tamil or Bengali. But whenever I looked around for books on my favourite Indian films, I could never find them.”
This was one of the many reasons he decided to come out with his memoir, The Stranger In The Mirror. After a two-decade long career, was it something he owed himself? “More than myself, I feel I owed it to my audience,” he says. “I would like to believe there is a connection I have made with my audiences. With every film, I have tried to have a conversation with them. More often than not, the audience has taken the film home with them, and the story and characters have entered their consciousness,” he adds.
Mehra, who made his debut in 2001 with the Amitabh Bachchan-starrer Aks, gained immensely from this effort. “I was able to relive memories of my initial days,” he says.
Yet, in this age of relentless transformation, isn’t there more to be done? “Yes...but I’ve realised that no matter what...the backbone will remain storytelling,” he adds.
The more I write, the more I understand acting-Hussain Dalal
7:56 AM
Praised for his acting gig in Toofaan, Hussain Dalal discusses how his writing skills have honed him as an artiste
Mohar Basu (MID-DAY; July 27, 2021)
Although he has earned his bread and butter being a writer in the industry, with the films like Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani (2013) and 2 States (2014), among others to his credit, over the last week, Hussain Dalal has been in the news for an acting gig. The writer landed the role of Munna in Toofaan after a bizarre phone call from director Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra. “He directed a film I had written — Mere Pyare Prime Minister [2018]. Every time we wrote something together, he would say, ‘Yeh role kar le.’ After he watched Judgementall Hai Kya [2019], he called to read out the opening scene of Toofaan and I knew I had to do it,” he says.
With his latest outing in front of the camera, Dalal has realised that he enjoys both writing and acting deeply. But does he prefer one over the other? “The more I write, the more I understand acting. I understand the challenges and frustrations of an actor, which improves my writing. I have 10 films a year, but for me, it has never been about picking what’s better. I just want to go to work every day.”
The writer has big projects in the pipeline, including Brahmastra, Ajay Devgn’s Rudra for Disney+ Hotstar, Suresh Triveni’s Jalsa, Dongri To Dubai, and Raj-DK’s next with Amazon Prime Video. Making time for acting in between his writing deadlines can’t be easy, but he says his passion for the art form drives him. “It’s easy to get lazy, but magic is created by the virtue of showing up everyday. I tread carefully with acting. I don’t need to pick up gigs to run my kitchen. It’s only now after Toofaan that I am considering acting as a viable career option.”
On the writing front, one of his most interesting projects is perhaps Applause Entertainment’s adaptation of Call My Agent, the French series that became a global rage. Set in the corridors of a Paris-based talent management company, the series gives a peek into the lives of stars and the PR machinery that keeps them shining. For Dalal, working on its adaptation has been a long party. “We have to tap that ‘chai se zyada kettle garam’ culture into a narrative. The star always walks alone; insecure actors bring an army of people. This industry doesn’t have an agent culture, so this was a tough show to adapt.”
Was he flooded with calls from stars, requesting not to bring the skeletons out of their closets? “The beauty of good writing is to attack culture and society, and not people. So, there are the satirical touches we’ve given, while retaining the format of the original.”
This adaptation is starkly different from Dongri To Dubai, inspired by Hussain Zaidi’s book of the same name. Dalal informs that the screenplay has been created by Zaidi and Rensil D’Silva. “Abbas [Dalal] and I joined in later to do dialogues and additional tweaking of the material. It’s a classic story of a boy who came from poverty and ruled the city; it’s in the same beat as Narcos, only rooted in Bombay of the ’60s.”
I haven’t got an official confirmation yet that I am not a part of Baahubali prequel-Mrunal Thakur
8:33 AM
Proud that her character in 'Toofaan' didn't play second fiddle to the protagonist, Mrunal Thakur says filmmakers need to write substantial parts for women
Mohar Basu (MID-DAY; July 24, 2021)
Mrunal Thakur begins the conversation with “Can I be honest or can I be honest?”, thus setting the tone for the chat. Her recent release, Toofaan, may have opened to mixed reviews, but she is glad that it resonated with a section of the audience. “For me, [the true] critics are my friends, family and audience. So when people, who have lost their loved ones [in recent times], text me saying that the emotions [depicted on screen] hit home, it’s a job well done. Validation doesn’t come from social media numbers, but from [whether] your work has made a difference to people. I believe films are meant to inspire people,” she says.
Toofaan’s biggest forte is that it subverts the genre of a sports drama. Though the narrative is centred on Farhan Akhtar’s character who becomes a boxer, Thakur’s doctor character Ananya Prabhu doesn’t play second fiddle. She credits director Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra for the feat. “People in his movies are all equally important. There is something to learn in the way Ananya is written; I hope people are inspired to write more substantial roles for women. Leading ladies aren’t there just to look pretty; a heroine’s role should have an impact on the audience.”
The actor has a promising line-up with Jersey opposite Shahid Kapoor, followed by Pippa. Before we finish the chat, we have to ask the million-dollar question — why was Netflix’s Baahubali: Before The Beginning scrapped after the show was entirely shot with her? “I haven’t got an official confirmation yet that I am not a part of it, so I still believe I am [in the show]. But I know it’s not happening. There is no point chasing something that wasn’t meant for me. The best thing would be to graciously watch people work harder. The makers will make the right decision. If they want me, I’ll be there; if not, I’ll work on some other project.”
What Rang De Basanti and Bhaag Milkha Bhaag gave to me together is equal to Toofaan-Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra
8:26 AM
Director Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra says Toofaan was a case of reverse casting as he reunites with Akhtar after the sports drama, Bhaag Milkha Bhaag
Uma Ramasubramanian (MID-DAY; July 17, 2021)
Healing is probably one of the last things you would associate with boxing. But to Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra, the sport has a healing quality, giving the pugilists an outlet to vent their suppressed angst. It is with this idea that he walked into Toofaan. “While reading autobiographies of boxing champions, I realised that boxing is a form of expression. The greatest fighters have come from marginalised sections of society. When life doesn’t [deal] you a fair hand, you will step into the ring and express [your agony]. Being in the ring then becomes like a healing touch. Such psychological observations were important in making the film,” says the director.
The Amazon Prime Video offering sees Farhan Akhtar play Aziz Ali, a Dongri thug who discovers his true potential when he puts on his boxing gloves. The filmmaker’s last collaboration with Akhtar was another sports drama, the much loved Bhaag Milkha Bhaag (2013). “After Bhaag Milkha…, we [knew] we had to raise the bar. In terms of casting Farhan, it worked the other way around. Here, the idea came from Farhan, who called, asking if I wanted to listen to a story. When I heard the story, it spoke to me.”
Mehra has often described the Paresh Rawal and Mrunal Thakur-starrer as a blend of “Rang De Basanti [RDB] and Bhaag Milkha Bhaag”. Elaborating on his statement, he explains, “RDB enriched me emotionally, as did Bhaag Milkha... What the two films gave to me together is equal to Toofaan, and more. Today, when I’ve come out of this film, I have grown as a storyteller and a human being.”
(Crisp) Movie Review: TOOFAAN by FENIL SETA
9:01 AM
Toofaan is an impressive sports drama that works despite the clichés and long length (161 minutes). The trailer and the plot had made me fear that it might give a déjà vu of similar such films in the past. But thankfully, that doesn’t happen. The sports portions are too good but the other subplots also add to the impact. The religion angle is very well depicted, that too in a balanced way. The second half is where the film disappoints a bit due to the sudden developments. The comeback bit is unconvincing as well. But the finale is nail-biting and the film ends on a great note. Farhan Akhtar is terrific and it’s a pleasure to see him in such a well-written author-backed role after probably Dil Dhadakne Do. His physical transformation is great and even as an actor, he has evolved. Mrunal Thakur is adorable and gets a lengthy and meatier role for the first time after Love Sonia. And she proves that she’s a great talent. And watch out for her infectious smile. Paresh Rawal delivers yet another power packed, award-winning performance. Hussain Dalal leaves a mark as the best friend and also raises laughs. Vijay Raaz is wasted while Darshan Kumaar is fine but it’s high time he gives a break to the villainous roles. Dr Mohan Agashe (Bala Uncle) is lovely. Supriya Pathak (Sister DSouza) is okay and Gauri Phulka (Myra) is the scene stealer in the film. Gaganpreet Sharma (Prithvi Singh) is menacing as the mighty opponent. Deven Khote (Merchant sir) does well. The title track and ‘Star Hai Tu’ are the best songs while the rest of them are forgettable. All in all, Toofaan is a great effort. The makers should have waited for a few more months and given it a chance to score at the box office. After all, the film was made for the big screen!
My rating - *** ½ out of 5!
Fenil's Bollywood Talk # 682
9:43 AM
WILL TOOFAAN BE ABLE TO BE AS COMPELLING AS BHAAG MILKHA BHAAG?
8 years ago, Farhan Akhtar and Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra collaborated on Bhaag Milkha Bhaag, an inspiring sports biopic on Milkha Singh. The film was loved and it ended up collecting more than Rs. 100 crore, which was a huge feat. Farhan’s next films, however, didn’t work well, except Dil Dhadakne Do. Also, he slowed down and didn’t sign too many films. However, now he’s back with a film that reunites him with Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra. And once again, it’s a sports film but a fictional one. Titled Toofaan, it releases tomorrow on Amazon Prime.
Besides Farhan Akhtar, Toofaan also stars Mrunal Thakur, Paresh Rawal, Supriya Pathak Kapur, Hussain Dalal, Mohan Agashe and Darshan Kumaar. It tells the story of a man from the lower strata of society trying to create a mark in the field of boxing. The trailer looks interesting. Farhan especially seems to be in top form and that he has gone all out to look convincing as a boxer. It's also a pleasure to see Paresh Rawal after a while on screen.
However, the film faces several challenges. The hype is minimal and moreover, it reminds one of Sultan and few other sports films. The film is 2 hours 40 minutes long and one hopes it doesn’t turn boring or dragging.
Toofaan was all set to release in cinemas in April or May 2021. Hence, the team of the film had obtained a censor certificate way back in February. But due to the deadly second wave of Coronavirus, they decided to postpone at first and then release it directly on Amazon Prime. The team of the film are trying their best to promote the film like a normal theatrical release. They are giving several interviews and they even went on reality shows to promote. Yet, the buzz is not strong. However, the film is sure to get views as there has been a dearth of releases. And since it stars a reputed actor like Farhan Akhtar, many viewers are bound to see it. Hence, a decent viewership is expected. How people react to it will determine whether it manages to get record-breaking views in the long run.
I think about direction every time I finish acting in a film-Farhan Akhtar
8:25 AM
Gratified that 'Toofaan' let him explore his favourite sport on screen, Farhan Akhtar hints at returning to filmmaking after a 10-year gap
Uma Ramasubramanian (MID-DAY; July 14, 2021)
It’s presumably a bittersweet feeling when a film you’ve lived with for one-and-a-half years reaches its culmination. As Farhan Akhtar’s journey with Toofaan nears its end, with the sports drama dropping on Amazon Prime Video this weekend, the actor is grateful that director Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra chose him to front it. “I have idolised Muhammad Ali as a sportsperson and a human being. We grew up at a time when Mike Tyson was a reigning champion. Boxing, as a sport, has also influenced my psyche. So, to do a film that is a part of this world is exciting,” begins Akhtar, who plays a thug who discovers his true potential when he steps in a boxing ring.
'Toofaan', also starring Paresh Rawal and Mrunal Thakur, is a product of Akhtar’s determination and dedication — he trained for months to pick up the sport. How hard is it then to have your labour of love judged by the audience? “You have to be prepared when you are in a public sphere, and the work that you do is for public consumption. There is a part of you that has to understand critique when it comes your way. That said, there is a fine line where a critique can go from being about your work to becoming about you. So, you start valuing the opinions of people who you know mean well.” With social media becoming the deciding factor of a film’s fate, he says artistes have to take the bouquets and brickbats in their stride. “You have to focus on telling a story as job,” he reasons.
The mind behind gems such as Dil Chahta Hai (2001) and Lakshya (2004), Akhtar put his directorial ambitions on hold to focus on his acting career in the past decade. Now, rumours suggest he is gearing up to helm the third instalment of Don. Akhtar remains evasive about the subject of his next as he says, “I think about direction every time I finish [acting in] a film. Hopefully, in the near future, I will direct [a movie].”
The song that we didn't use in Dil Chahta Hai...I have never forgotten it-Farhan Akhtar
8:27 AM
Farhan Akhtar, Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy, the team behind Toofaan, mark 20 years since the release of Dil Chahta Hai by sharing anecdotes, including that of a song that never made the final cut
Sonia Lulla (MID-DAY; July 12, 2021)
Several artistes suggest that they occasionally find themselves leisurely working on projects offered to them, only to scramble and wrap up the work at eleventh hour. This interview with Farhan Akhtar and Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy appears to proceed no differently. Abundant tomfoolery predominates the first 15 minutes — it appears as though the quartet is enacting the rough draft of Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara.
Reminded by their publicists that they are running against the clock, they seem to recall that they had ‘serious’ questions prepared for one another, as part of this interaction. They manage to squeeze some in, as Shankar enquires if the box-office performance of Farhan’s second directorial venture, Lakshya, was a disappointment. The latter, in turn, probes them about a project that has tested their sensibilities.
The entire interaction, available on our YouTube channel, is assuredly worthy of a watch. In the meantime, these edited excerpts will highlight why this team — whose latest work, Toofaan, releases on Friday — always creates the finest films based on friendship.
Shankar: Farhan, do you have that 60-page script of Dil Chahta Hai?
Farhan: I do, and, just the other day, I found these hand-drawn storyboards [that I had made] during the first few weeks of shoot. It was special. The memories of recording the music are special. I remember meeting you all at 4D [music studio]. You all were finalising the music of Mission Kashmir, and played the song Dhuan to me. It’s such a good song.
Shankar: What made you come to SEL for DCH?
Farhan: Breathless had blown my mind. I was still writing [the script of Dil Chahta Hai] then, and didn’t know what my plans were. At the time, [A R] Rahman had become a big name. I spoke to pa [Javed Akhtar] and said I’d like to meet him. But he said he didn’t think our temperaments would match. I am the kind of guy who sleeps at 9 am, and he wakes up then. Also, I wanted someone who was hungry, like I was. I remembered how amazing Breathless was, and there were other songs [of SEL] that I liked. Dus’ Suno gaur se had also come out then, and it all felt right.
Shankar: I remember, [with Breathless], you, Zoya [Akhtar] and Javed ji were sitting in a room, and you told me, ‘We will make this video. It will become famous. Then we’ll make big movies, and lots of money.’
Farhan: [I’d say] anything to get you all on-board. Every script has a culture; every character a sound. That the three of you could understand the process, and make it effortless, seemed amazing. The music [in that decade] was very different. The way you processed it felt right.
Ehsaan: I wonder if there is an idea that we didn’t use?
Loy: There was one; was it a blues [song]?
Farhan: That song hasn’t left me. I’ve put it in the archives, or something. It is in my head, I have never forgotten it.
Shankar: Pyaar mein kitna gham hai.
Farhan: That’s it. I will 100 per cent use it in some film. We recorded one mukhda and antara for it. Pa had also written the lyrics. It was for [the section which eventually included] Tanhaayi.
Shankar: There were things about the film’s lyrics that [bothered you].
Farhan: Yes, one was Chamkile din. I stand corrected now, but when I heard it, I told dad it sounded like a detergent [commercial]. Another one was pyar ke ghat jo utarte hai. I found the reference old-fashioned. But he said, like trends, words come and go. The young generation is reintroduced to some words only through songs. It’s a nice way to keep these words alive.
mid-day: When tackling a film like Karthik Calling Karthik, which isn’t generally driven by its music, how does the process change?
Farhan: There are a couple of films like that, including Lakshya. It’s not one you associate with music because it is about dramatic personal growth. In this case, it is about how effectively a writer can weave in a song to further the story. In films like Dil Chahta Hai and Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara, you can pause the story [to include a song]. But, in films like Lakshya, you can’t, because the driving factor for the viewer is the story. Such movies are tougher to work on. They are easier for the writer. So, for pa, it is easier because he knows where the song is being placed in the film, and can write in accordance with that situation. But, for the composers, it is harder. Because the music has to become an extension of the score.
Shankar: Talking about Toofaan, the work you have done is [commendable]. Had you learnt boxing before?
Farhan: I’ve never boxed before. The closest I’ve come to boxing is evading punches from Zoya. But, when you are inspired by a script, something happens. You don’t feel like you’re working anymore. It’s not about the physicality. If I was walking down the street and someone told me to do 50 push ups,
that will feel like hard work. But, if [a script like this] wakes something up within you, you are drawn to it.
Shankar: But to sustain that for [18 months] must have been tough. I remember, you would wake up and be at the boxing ring by 6.30 am. Often, you would message me from there with ideas about a song. I’d wonder how this man could do it?
Farhan: Like with Bhaag Milkha Bhaag, it came from being so excited and inspired by what was being asked of you. I’m sure it’s the same for you guys. If you’re in a studio, you all keep [creating music] till it feels amazing. Until that’s done, you can’t sleep.
Shankar: Were you disappointed with how Lakshya fared?
Farhan: Yeah, but only because it was probably the hardest I had worked for anything. [We were always taught] that if you work hard, you will succeed. Here, we did. But I had expected it to do better than it did. I was disappointed. But, on the flip side, there’s a story I’d like to share. In 2017, I went to Dehradun for a live concert. It was the first time I was heading there after the release of Lakshya. I told [the officials] I’d love to visit the academy [where the film was shot]. Graciously, they organised a visit. There were 700 cadets. Someone asked me the reason behind making the film. And I narrated a story about [something that transpired in 2000]. I think you [SEL] were there with my father at an event in 2000, when an [army official] had told him that there was a shortage of officers entering the army, after Kargil. The army was praised for how they dealt with the intruders. But, as a career option for the educated, it was vanishing. Dad said he would write a film about it, and that is how Lakshya got made. I was telling [the cadets] this story. One major, who supervises them, said he wanted to show me something. He took to the mic and asked [the cadets] who among them had joined [the force on being inspired by] Lakshya. About 70 per cent raised their hands. And that made me realise that we are [unfortunately] only bothered about box-office numbers. Here, the purpose of making the film was evidently served.
Farhan: Hadn’t you guys composed the [title track] of the film much earlier?
Shankar: I had composed it before I had met Ehsaan and Loy. It was for a TV series. The difference between working for your production and another one is that we don’t need to consult anyone else. When we work on music, we arrive at many [melodies]. We like some, we throw some. But, if we like an idea, we can consult you, and it is [finalised]. It’s not like we’re told, ‘Okay, we’ll come back to you.’ The process becomes easier.
Loy: Yeah, the fact that you take the call on a song speeds up the process by 10 times. That’s the problem in the industry. [Delays] set you back significantly.
After The Family Man's shoot, it took me two weeks to shake off the character-Darshan Kumaar
8:11 AM
High on success of 'The Family Man 2', Darshan Kumaar on playing terror attack mastermind
Mohar Basu (MID-DAY; June 21, 2021)
In 'The Family Man 2' where the lines between heroes and villains are blurred, with each character’s motivation fuelled by the unjust done to him, Darshan Kumaar’s Major Sameer stands out as the only all-black character. As the mastermind behind the terror attack, he is seen running the show from London.
“Major Sameer is always ready with a Plan B. He has the capacity to carry out huge missions, is flamboyant yet focused, and can go to any lengths to execute his plans. He is the most dangerous guy on the show. As we see in the news, there are many like Major Sameer who are killing countless innocent people for their selfish reasons,” says Kumaar, happy with the praise coming his way for his restrained act.
“My phone is filled with messages of praise from the film fraternity. It was a tough part; I had to create a backstory and work with conviction. After the shoot, it took me two weeks to shake off the character.”
The actor has another promising release in 'Toofaan' that sees him alongside Farhan Akhtar and Paresh Rawal. He underwent two-month training at a boxing facility in Mumbai before slipping into the role of a Maharashtrian boxer, Dharmesh Patil. “This phase feels like déjà vu. Last year, around the same time, two of my shows — 'Avrodh' and 'Aashram' — had dropped, and were loved by the audience. Now, 'The Family Man' is bringing a smile to people’s faces in these critical times. Hopefully, Toofaan will do the same,” says Kumaar, who has also shot for a film with Zee Studio, and has a thriller with R Madhavan in the pipeline.
Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra’s trust in what Farhan Akhtar could produce, physically, was tried and tested-Drew Neal
8:04 AM
Drew Neal is also training Arjun Kapoor for Ek Villain Returns. Pics/Instagram
Former world kickboxing champion Drew Neal discusses his seven-year journey of teaching Bollywood’s brightest to punch way above their weight, both on and off screen
Sonia Lulla (MID-DAY; June 16, 2021)
Before a spate of Bollywood offerings began to come his way in 2013, Drew Neal was running a successful training company in the UK. Being unfamiliar with the Indian film industry, the kickboxing champion wasn’t easily lured, until Harsh Varrdhan Kapoor’s offering, 'Mirzya' seemed to hold promise. Citing the three-month contract as an “adventure and an opportunity to visit a country I had always wanted to see”, Neal agreed. Seven years later, he has expanded his foothold in India, working with Bollywood’s top brass to develop their boxing skills, both on and off screen.
Neal’s name is currently prominently associated with Farhan Akhtar, who has been learning from the trainer for his upcoming boxing-drama, 'Toofaan'. As has been with all athletic coaches mid-day has connected with to discuss Akhtar’s sports films, Neal too agrees that there isn’t scope to question the actor’s diligence. “It was clear that Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra and Farhan had a relationship from a previous project that they had worked on. Rakeysh’s trust in what Farhan could produce, physically, was tried and tested, and it was evident to me how much of a hard-worker he really was,”
Neal shares. Even then, despite his meticulousness, which was only supported by his athletic frame, training him for the part was no mean feat. “Playing the part did not come naturally to him. We had to work painstakingly on his form in order to make him look and feel like a boxer. No matter how athletic one is, skills are learnt through practice and perseverance.”
Teaching the tropes was one part of the task at hand. Neal had to mould Akhtar’s frame to enable him to pull off the boxing choreography set by fighters and fitness experts, including Darrell Foster. “I was acquainted with the requirements [of the sequences] and I would ensure that Farhan was up to the task to perform the movements needed in the scenes.”
More recently, he has trained his attention to Arjun Kapoor, and celebrates the luxury of time — one year — afforded to him to ready the actor for 'Ek Villain Returns. “This is how I prefer to work with my clients. I don’t believe in fast transformations. I have seen numerous transformations that have been too aggressive and this practice has health and psychological implications.”
When details around the role-requirement and physical appearances are established, he draws out a comprehensive plan.
“I always say, what gets measured, gets managed. The plan covers all aspects of [his] lifestyle. I know exactly how many calories he consumes, and how many he expends. I am aware about his sleep cycle. My diary is full of data that I use to get the most out of my client. I work out how many calories [he] needs to sustain the current weight, and then factor in the goal, and adjust the numbers. Muscle gain needs a calorie-surplus, whereas fat-loss needs a deficit. The nutrition plan is tailor-made,” he says, adding that attention is also paid to the amount of rest an actor gets, given the erratic schedules in their line of work.
“Actors are judged by millions based on how they look and perform. This pressure can work in a positive or negative way. It is up to me to develop the trust in the relationship, and I constantly tell them to trust the process,” says Neal, who has also trained Shibani Dandekar, Kareena Kapoor Khan and Amrita Arora Ladak.
Knock-out punch
Neal, who featured as a boxer in Salman Khan’s Sultan, says tricks can be employed to be a better boxer, on screen. “While acting, I realised that being a fighter was a disadvantage. I was used to being close to my opponents, and making contact. In action [on screen], the distance between actors is greater, even though the cameras are so positioned that it appears otherwise. I also learnt that selling a punch actually comes from the person getting hit, rather than the person throwing the blow. Acting the reaction is difficult.”
Fenil's Bollywood Talk # 672
8:47 AM
IS THE DECISION TO POSTPONE TOOFAAN JUSTIFIED?
The second wave of the Coronavirus refuses to die down. Although the growth rate has reduced, the daily caseload still crosses the 3 lakh mark daily. Twice it even went past the 4 lakh mark. It’s now very common to hear of hospitals facing a shortage of beds and oxygen. Thankfully, the cases are gradually decreasing in most of Maharashtra and even the city of Delhi but for the rest of the country, it’ll be a while until cases peak and then reduce.
In such a scenario, most cinema halls are shut in the country. Yet again, films are taking the OTT route. The movies which were meant for theatrical releases have obviously been postponed. But now for the first time, a digital film has also decided to be pushed ahead. And the reason is the second wave of Covid-19! The film in question is Toofaan. It stars Farhan Akhtar, Mrunal Thakur and Paresh Rawal and is directed by Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra. It was all set to release on Amazon Prime on May 21.
But on Monday, actor and producer of Toofaan, Farhan Akhtar, announced that keeping in mind the severity of the situation, their focus is completely on the pandemic, supporting the employees working for his production house and also in supporting the wider community. Hence, he and his team decided to postpone Toofaan’s release until the situation improves.
This decision has left many divided. A section of the audience applauded him for taking this brave step. They argue that right now, the mood is gloomy all over. Films are the last thing in people’s minds. As a result, it’s only fair that Farhan Akhtar and the makers decided to postpone the release.
But then there are many who couldn’t digest the development. They reason that in times of despair, it is films, TV shows and web series that are providing some respite. How long can one watch updates on news channels about Covid-19? Moreover, the shows and films which were released recently on Amazon Prime and on other platforms got a good viewership. Toofaan would have been watched more widely due to Farhan’s presence.
After the shoots were stopped in Mumbai, the producers of TV serials have shifted base to places like Gujarat, Dadra Nagar Haveli, Goa etc. and are churning out episodes from there. And nobody has raised objection to it because even entertainment is necessary. Even the IPL was happening until recently and again, it was getting a fine response. Hence, this section of netizens are unhappy about Toofaan’s postponement.
Thankfully for this lot, there’s still a reason to cheer. Salman Khan’s much awaited film Radhe releases next Thursday, on May 13, in select cinemas and on ZeePlex. 5 days later, Arjun Kapoor-starrer Sardar Ka Grandson will premiere on Netflix, on May 18.
Paresh Rawal was my first and last choice for the role in Toofaan-Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra
7:59 AM
Wanting to cast against type, Toofaan director Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra on roping in Paresh Rawal to play boxing coach
Uma Ramasubramanian (MID-DAY; April 21, 2021)
Filmmaker Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra’s previous offerings — by way of their narratives and characters — never quite gave him the opportunity to work with Paresh Rawal. In that regard, Farhan Akhtar-starrer Toofaan is special as it fulfils his long-standing wish. When the director developed the film, he decided to cast against type, envisioning Rawal in the role of the boxing coach to the leading man.
“Once the story was ready, many names came up. The perception was that we need someone more athletic to play a boxing coach. But Paresh Rawal was my first and last choice for the role, provided the dates and logistics fell in place,” says Mehra.
For the filmmaker, Rawal’s character — a mentor as well as the source of emotional conflict in the story — is “one of the pillars” of the Amazon Prime Video offering. Joining creative forces with the senior actor has been as deeply satisfying as Mehra had imagined it to be. “Paresh sir was a masterclass in acting on the set. Whenever he would perform in front of the camera, I used to forget that I’m the director and become a student of cinema, watching him and his approach,” says the director.
Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra ropes in boxers from Haryana, Maharashtra, USA to lend authenticity to Toofaan
7:52 AM
Uma Ramasubramanian (MID-DAY; March 27, 2021)
Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra’s previous works, including Rang De Basanti (2006) and Bhaag Milkha Bhaag (2013), are proof that the filmmaker will not compromise on the authenticity of his story. Naturally, when he set out to tell the story of a goon-turned-boxer in Toofaan, he sought professional boxers who will add value to the sports drama. While Farhan Akhtar trained rigorously under the watchful eyes of Drew Neal, Samir Jaura and Darrell Foster, the director roped in real-life pugilists who would battle it out with the leading man in the ring.
“To me, it was vital that all the bouts were with real-life boxers,” says the director, adding that his production team scouted for talent across the country. “We brought [pugilists] from the North-east, Haryana and Maharashtra on board. We also roped in a professional boxer from the US. The final [sequence] sees Farhan’s character fight him.”
Set in the world of boxing, the Amazon Prime Video offering, which also stars Mrunal Thakur and Paresh Rawal, is a love story at heart.
Shooting in real locations with a star like Farhan Akhtar was a challenge-Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra
8:34 AM
Director Mehra recounts how he struggled with crowd management as he shot portions of Toofaan in real locations of Mumbai
Uma Ramasubramanian (MID-DAY; March 23, 2021)
After Bhaag Milkha Bhaag (2013), Farhan Akhtar and Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra have reunited for Toofaan. The film, told through the lens of protagonist Aziz Ali essayed by Akhtar, shows how a goon from the streets of Dongri finds purpose after falling in love, and goes on to become a star boxer. The perfectionist that Mehra is, it isn’t surprising that he stayed true to the world of his story and shot a chunk of the movie in the densely populated neighbourhoods of Dongri and Nagpada in Mumbai.
“Shooting in real locations with a star like Farhan was a challenge, but the script demanded it. We got into it, knowing the challenges,” says the director, who conducted the schedule in October 2019.
For Mehra, the biggest hurdle was crowd management. He recounts, “In areas like Dongri, controlling the crowd for the first few days was a task for the team. But gradually, they became more cordial and made it easy for us to shoot. We filmed there for about a month.”
The sports drama, slated for a digital premiere on Amazon Prime Video, also features Paresh Rawal and Mrunal Thakur.
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