Exclusive: Anil Kapoor Talks About 1st Film With Daughter, Sonam Kapoor
The timeless superstar of Bollywood, the “Jhakkas” Mr. Anil Kapoor has been charming the audience for about 40 years now,although time seems to have stood still for him. The actor seems to be ageing in reverse! He has given some standout performances in films like Tezaab, Taal, Pukar, Virasat, Dil Dhadakne Do and more.
He is one of the few Bollywood actors to have worked in successful Hollywood ventures like the “Slumdog Millionaire” (Academy Award Winner) and “Mission: Impossible – Ghost Protocol”. He was critically acclaimed by American media for his role in the American television series ’24’. He even starred in the Indian adaptation of the series as the protagonist.
With his latest film being one of the most unique love stories to be told in Bollywood – “Ek Ladki Ko Dekha Toh Aisa Laga” released today.
We had a chance to catch up with the exceptionally talented superstar himself on his first film with his daughter Sonam Kapoor (both of
DissDash: How excited are you about Ek Ladki Ko Dekha Toh Aisa Laga?
Anil Kapoor: I’ve never been so excited about a film, to be honest. I absolutely loved working with my daughter for the first time. It was wonderful but, also very nerve-wracking in the beginning when I had said yes to the project. But when we landed on the set, we were two professionals and had a great time. There could not have been a better story than ELKDTAL for both of us to come together for the first time.
DissDash: Was the relationship between you and Sonam Kapoor on the set similar to that in real life, or it was different?
Kapoor: As I said, we were two professionals on the set performing their respective roles or characters, as actors.
DissDash: Did you at any point find yourself giving notes to Sonam about a scene, as an actor or tell her what to do?
Kapoor: Absolutely not! She came completely prepared for the character she was performing. In fact, I sometimes used to ask her if am doing a scene right or not.
DissDash: How was it working with Juhi Chawla?
Kapoor: Absolutely wonderful. We faced the camera together almost after 12 years. I think we had last worked together on “Salaam-e-Ishq”. She’s a great comic actor and most of our scenes have a lot of comic flavor to it. So I was very excited for us to work together again. She’s wonderful and is stunning in the film with her impeccable comic timing.
DissDash: Do you feel that your craft is different from the new generation like Sonam and Rajkummar?
Kapoor: Today’s actors are fantastic as they are well prepared and know the script
DissDash: How was it working with Shelly Chopra Dhar considering it is her first venture as a director?
Kapoor: When I heard the story I absolutely loved it. Initially, I was skeptical about how Shelly will make the film and whether she’ll be able to pull it off, considering it’s her first film. But, she has done a stupendous job.
DissDash: You’re very excited about the film. How would you say it is different from your other films?
Kapoor: When we have these screenings for people who are not linked to the film, and we get such positive feedback from them, it is heartening. I hope this translates to America as well. When you do a film and receive such wonderful feedback, you get excited.
DissDash: The trailer looks amazing and we can’t wait to watch it on Friday.
Kapoor: Please do that and give your feedback. This is a kind of story and subject which needs your support.
DissDash: What would be the one thing that you want the audience to take away from this film?
Kapoor: I would say, this film is about family, love, and acceptance. So set love free! Let love be! If the film makes even some people think and it resonates with them, I think we’d be very happy to have done our job.
