Heart of the Matter

Do you think there were a lot of expectations from you because not only was this your first film, but you are also the brother of Imtiaz Ali who has some good films to his name?

In that case, why were there not too may footfalls at the theatre? For people to like the movie or to not like the movie, they have to first go to the theatres to watch it and then decide. That has not happened. On Friday, the opening day, when I went to the theatres, I was surprised as there was hardly 50 per cent occupancy. So what expectations? If you expect something, go for it.

It was also hyped as the debut film of Raj Kapoor’s grandson. Yet it did not work in the film’s favour.

There is a reason when producers want to flaunt star kids. When there is a star kid in a film, people come to see them, with expectations and anticipation. But I don’t think this generation even knows of Raj Kapoor, as much as they know of Ranbir Kapoor and Kareena Kapoor Khan. For them, Armaan is more Ranbir and Kareena’s cousin than Raj Kapoor’s grandson.

What do you have to say about Armaan and Deeksha, the lead actors of the film?

When I met Armaan and Deeksha after the release, I told them that today ‘if I have to go back in time, I would still cast you both in the film’. That is because Armaan has that energy, innocence and an endearing stupidity. He is that character. Same goes with Deeksha.

Box-office-wise, what were your expectations during the time of the film’s release in terms of collections?

I was never very good with maths, otherwise I would have been an MBA. So I never looked into that matter. But I wish the producers had earned their money.
Recently when Shah Rukh Khan came to watch the film, he told me that I am a good film-maker and that I should stick to that and leave the rest to others. Even Imtiaz was of the same opinion. He has always been around like an elder brother, whenever I needed him and guided me. A few days after the film released and when I still could not see any numbers in the cinema hall, he came to me and said, “I have been thinking of your film and I want to tell you categorically that you have made a good film. The fate of the film is not in your hands. Now focus on your next film.” He won’t lie to me just because he is my brother. So I plan to take his and Shah Rukh’s advice seriously and my next could be anything, a rom-com, family entertainer or thriller.

namita.nivas@expressindia.com