"It's the most difficult film I've made so far. I'm working with rank newcomers though Ranbir, Sonam and I are like a big family. It takes a little more time for them to grasp a scene. But being from illustrious film families, their grasping power is remarkable," Bhansali told IANS in an interview.
The director, however, was happy that there was no interference from the star parents.
"The best thing about Ranbir and Sonam's parents is they never interfere. Rishi Kapoor-Neetu Singh and Anil-Sunita behave as though their kids are in boarding school," he said.
A furniture dealer had recently filed a case against Bhansali, who said the turbulent period had re-instated faith in himself.
"I think the turbulence makes you realize that nothing can shake your faith."
Excerpts from the interview:
Q. You've completed two schedules of "Saawariya"
A. "Saawariya" went on the floors after one year of pre-production. It's the most difficult film I've made so far. After "Black" and its sensational performances by Amitabh Bachchan and Rani Mukerji, I'm working with rank newcomers though Ranbir, Sonam and I are like a big family.
It takes a little more time for them to grasp a scene. But being from illustrious film families, their grasping power is remarkable.
Q. Do the newcomers make "Saawariya" a special challenge?
A. Yes, because every nuance of theirs is spontaneous. It's up to the director to cultivate their skills. After working with Ranbir and Sonam I've become far more articulate than I was during "Black". I need to be far more expressive with these kids. They need to know what I want and when they give the correct expressions they need to be told why they're correct.
Sometimes I love them both and at other times I fire the hell out of them. Ranbir and Sonam have surrendered themselves completely to the screenplay. They've the right to say what they like to. And I've the same right.
Q. Do Ranbir and Sonam match up to your expectations?
A. Oh completely! They've taken me completely by surprise. The decision to take Ranbir and Sonam was right. They look fresh and stunning as a pair. To watch them together brings so much joy and hope to my creativity. The hard work that the two kids are putting in is amazing. I feel I'm moulding clay, watching it take unpredictable and exciting shapes in front of me.
Q. The fact that they belong to well-known film families must count.
A. Oh yes! But the best thing about Ranbir and Sonam's parents is they never interfere. Rishi Kapoor-Neetu Singh and Anil-Sunita behave as though their kids are in boarding school. It's so wonderful to have two new actors who are completely at the disposal of this film.
Since Ranbir and Sonam have never acted before, they perform in a way that's completely theirs. Every shot is a revelation here. Suddenly they spring a completely unexpected expression. I've never been more alert as a filmmaker.
Q. You've been through some trying times. A furniture dealer had filed a case against you...
A. Thank god for this country's judicial system. Somehow troubles seem to hound me even as I try to get away from my problems. Maybe that's my destiny though I don't enjoy it at all. But it was a turbulent period because misinformation and accusations were being thrown around.
Sadly a lot of other issues cropped up at the same time. My mother fell ill. I think the turbulence makes you realise that nothing can shake your faith. My focus never shifted from my work. I firmly believe the more people trouble me the better I get at my work. I've discovered new reserves of energy within me to guard my creativity and self-esteem. I've realised a human being has unlimited depths of inspiration as long as you believe in yourself.
Q. Were you lonely while you fought your legal battle?
A. Why should I expect everyone to leave their work to offer me a shoulder? It was my battle and I fought it. It felt reassuring when people like Amitji sent a message saying he's there for me. My colleagues were concerned for me.
Q. "Saawariya" releases next Diwali?
A. Isn't that exciting! Every big film vies for a Diwali release. Unfortunately none of my films have had a Diwali release. Diwali is my favourite festival and "Saawariya" launches two talented new kids. Plus it's a musical love story. Diwali feels like the right time for this one.
