As an artist, how did you deal with the shift in psyche, especially while being in and out of a character that has physical limitations, and a completely different personality?

Like I mentioned, my portions were shot while I standing inside a one and a half feet deep pit. There were also boxes, which would move wherever I went. So personally, I never felt short, except while standing next to Anushka or Katrina (laughs). On a serious note, Anushka's character even has a line - 'Relationship barabari ka hoga', which is even a part of the trailer. Because technically, we are the same height in the film, as she is seated on her digitally controlled chair. I never felt any difference, except for a small fact that it was like walking two steps below. 

What about the sets, costumes and props? How did you work around those, considering you could actually see the final look post structural changes?

I'll tell you what was difficult. A lot of times, we would shoot a scene, and after 3-4 months while watching the structure change, we think it looks really good. Sometimes, it would look worse, because when he becomes small, everything feels different. In fact, some scenes even had to be re-shot. If I did something with my own style, it looked wrong on a shorter person. It's a little difficult to describe, but if you notice the romantic track (Mere Naam Tu), his movements are a little child like. Like chest thumps and jumps. He can't do tight moves, so even the choreography had to be a little loose. It was during the look test that I did around 2 and a half years back, that I noticed, something just wasn't right. Even the props were bigger for me. For instance, if it's an iPhone 8 for everyone, then that's X for me. If you read a normal book, mine is a bit bigger. Shirt - trouser fittings had to be kept in mind. We also wanted him to have a slight paunch, which isn't too prominent, but at the same time, he should look attractive. So, those elements had to be kept in mind.

We had to buy a machine called Techno Dolly, and have it sent from overseas. It's actually used for shots in Games of Thrones as well

Tell us a little about the inclusion of aeronautics in the film. Were portions of the film shot in NASA?

Well, there is no mention of NASA as such. We have built our own space research centre. Personalisation was necessary, as NASA only allows one film to use their name per year, and they already had 'First Man'. So, we become the second one. However, we did shoot some scenes there, and we had requested if another name can be used. Especially because we have taken certain cinematic liberties in the film. So, the permissions were necessary.  

We are making the biggest and largest number of films in a year. We assume that we are the best film makers in the world

What are your thoughts of the use of VFX in Hindi films. Do you think it needs a better push in the Indian film industry, with the kind of genres we are experimenting with today?

VFX has to be much more prominent in Hindi films, for cinema to have better story telling. We are making the biggest and largest number of films in a year. We assume that we are the best film makers in the world. But, I think the new influx of audience that will come in the future, that is kids who are now 7-8 years old, they will not be very forgiving about the cinematic sound and visual experience. They are used to watching the latest films and songs in full HD on phones or computers. Some beautiful films with a great overall visual experience have released recently, and have been accepted by the audience. It is only a matter of time that the numbers will increase. These children will grow up watching such films, even in small towns, thanks to the growing connectivity we have today. In the future, they won't accept excuses like, "Arey, Hindi film main kuch bhi chalta hai." That excuse is fine for us, and mine would be the last generation, who would see a tacky film and say - But still, this is the first for India (laughs). 

Go on....

In fact, you are still younger. I was telling someone, how it was 15 years ago that I first went to a multiplex. But, now I am used to that recliner chair, big screens, and flavoured popcorns. But when I was growing up, cinema halls were very rundown, at least most of them. Now, since I am used to the multiplex experience, if you take me back to the old hall, I might not be comfortable. Even if it's another country, I would be like - Arey, yeh kahan aa gaye. Mujhe picture nahi dekhni. So, kids are already used to that world. And when I speak of VFX, it's not just films like Baahubali. There is so much more to VFX than that. It can be used even for the smallest of films, like Zodiac in Hollywood, which is made over a period of 15-20 days. A lot of VFX is used for simple details - like speed, cars, camera movements, and it can't be pinpointed specifically. So, I feel film makers should come forward and make use of this technology to enhance the overall movie experience.

Film makers should come forward and make use of technology to enhance the overall movie experience

When it comes to the use of technology, you and team Red Chillies VFX have always taken things a notch above. But, technology often comes with its own set of challenges. What were some of the hurdles that you came across during the making of this film, and how did you over come it?

While shooting for the track with Salman (Khan), and there are a few scenes as well, where we could not get the moving shots right. The film became very static, as you had to shoot five times - background, actors, crowd among others. So, the layering became difficult. Eventually, we had to buy a machine called Techno Dolly, and have it sent from USA. It's actually used for shots in Games of Thrones as well. But, buying a machine wasn't enough, and so, we had to get a person who could perfectly manage the equipment. So now, they have their own technique of working and understanding, and we haven't worked on that machine before. Hence, the director had to learn how to work on that machine, which by the way, it quite big. Just the other day, we were shooting for some additional scenes for the last bit of the film, and there was a fire. While the fire could be controlled well in time, as it wasn't that big, but the water used to douse the fire went into the machine. So, the whole thing stopped working. Of course, we could shoot in static, but everyone was obviously worried. Also, it was sad, because we bought this expensive machine, perhaps a first in the country. Luckily for us, after keeping it in a silica tank or something, the machine was up and working within two days. So yes, technology does bring along some hitches. Sometimes, you do make mistakes. Of course, there were some good parts too. 

And what about the song with Salman Khan?

So, while shooting with Salman, I had to jump in his arms. We thought he will have to be hooked on something. He was standing at quite a height, and I had to take a jump. Obviously, when I jump, that will have a lot of force. So, we wanted him to be put on to a wire. But, he is so strong, that he didn't move. That solved a lot of problems (smiles). Because if had fallen or moved in a stranger manner, we couldn't have pulled off that shot. Certain shots may start looking a bit weird if not executed properly. Then, in some shots I have to jump into a rickshaw, or even Zeeshan's lap. So, somebody discovered that if a string is put up, I can jump across and reach (laughs). These little things were experimented with. Some look real, some unreal. Certain romantic scenes had to look a certain way. Now, when Katrina bends down to kiss me, she can't touch me too much. That's because my face gets covered and it cannot structured later. So, angles had to be set. Beyond that, we couldn't judge or look at what we have shot. Usually, we are used to seeing our shots on the monitor. It was a lot of hit and trial. That's why, we took a lot of time to shoot this film with complete perfection.

You know, when films bomb at the box office, then it's the best way to call them 'ahead of its time'. That's the best excuse (laughs)

We hope you enjoyed our candid conversation with Shah Rukh Khan!

Read Part I of the Conversation here
Are you excited to watch Zero tomorrow? Share your excitement in the comment below or Join the conversation on
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The Dancebee

There are certain genres that work for the audience, but don’t go with my sensibilities. One of them is comedy. Not putting down comedies made in our country, but I don’t connect with that. But, if I had to do a comedy, I wouldn’t mind it, but as a producer I would love to do a comedy that I’d want to see. Something which doesn’t alienate the audience, but at the same time, doesn’t dole the same content that has been churned out over and over again for the past 30-40 years. I like real films like Why Cheat India, which can also entertain at the same time. So, I would want to do more of these kind of films. I would also like to explore the action genre in a manner, which would be a drastic change from the kind of regular action you get to see. They have seen bits of it in films like Awaarapan, Baadshaaho and will get to see a lot of it in Bard of Blood. But, again the action hero in our country is something I don’t get. I don’t understand a guy fighting 15 people. If I get into this genre, I would like to break the mould. Let’s see, once the film releases, I will sit down and choose which genres I would want to explore.

As a producer, I wouldn't want to alienate the audience, but at the same time, I won't dole the same content that has been churned out over and over again for the past 30-40 years

After a year long wait (or perhaps, more), he is back with an all new release. After generating maximum curiosity with teasers, posters and BTS shots all year round, Shah Rukh Khan is ready with the much anticipated Christmas release of 2018 - Zero. What clearly looks like India's very own VFX marvel to watch out for, Zero will have Khan collaborating with film maker Aanand L Rai (known for his romantic-dramas set in the heartland of India), for the very first time. While the actor is known to experiment with his avatar in every film, be it Ra. One, Chak De India or Fan, it would be for the first time that he will seen as a dwarf on the big screen. And no, this ain't your regular fare, where a body double or fake tricks are used. Zero is said to be a state of the art VFX film, and Khan's team at Red Chillies VFX promises to leave no stone unturned to turn it into a memorable experience for the cine goers.



On a breezy December evening, while trying to catch up with the peak hour Mumbai traffic, we were invited for a conversation with Khan at a suburban studio. It was a tough week for the actor, what with back to back events, a big fat Indian wedding, and promotions for the film in Dubai. Dressed looking his dapper best, complete with a grey jacket to beat the breeze, Khan walked out of his swanky vanity van and rushed in to greet us. Despite the tough schedule, he looked happy (and handsome as ever) and welcomed us with a smile. What followed was an uninterrupted, long conversation on all things cinema, life, VFX, and of course - being Bauua Singh for Zero. As he continued to sip on hot coffee from his tumbler, we got ready to shoot our questions! And of course, the actor was all ears, as he sat down for a chat, while flashing those legendary dimples. Here's our much awaited interview, an uncut conversation series, presented in two parts. Presenting Part I of our conversation with Shah Rukh Khan:



What went into the conceptualisation of your character - Bauua Singh? What were the key personality traits kept in mind, before the character was actually given shape? 
It's not really experimental, but just a physical difference in a character. As much as growing a moustache, but the technology to create this and the process took very long. Also, the film's basis being that all of us spend most of our time wishing that we could be happier. I wish I had this, or could do that. And, we have so many people around us telling us how we should be. But, we don't realise that each one of us are unique. Nobody is perfect, except I joke - Katrina Kaif (laughs). Jokes apart, we can agree that no individual is perfect, either mentally, emotionally or physically. I think we should accept that fact, so that we don't waste time trying to be someone else, while time passes away. Because I believe that life is too short. You just need to believe in yourself - this is who I am, and this is the best I can be. Look at things, that you otherwise consider as flaws, like your uniqueness. Agar main height main chota hoon, toh woh ek advantage hai. If you are someone who cribs - main lamba nahi hoon, gora nahi hoon, patla nahi hoon, ya mere maa baap vapas nahi aa sakte hain; Just tell yourself - let me enjoy this one life that God has given us. To be able to create that vibe in Zero, we needed some incompleteness in our film. So, we added three - there is a physically challenged person, there is a neurologically challenged person, and then, you have the most beautiful woman, who is emotionally challenged. If we accept our flaws and limitations, we can grow as a human being.

Bauua Singh is clearly portrayed in a natural manner, without the unnecessary dose of emotions or sympathy. Was that intentional and integral as well for the film?
That's precisely why we chose to have Bauua's physicality a certain way. It could have been any of the three characters, but this was integral to the story. In fact, we were worried that this should not become the main stay of the film. Thankfully, from whatever I have seen so far, I feel that you overcome that right after 10-15 minutes. We definitely didn't want his height to be a gimmick. Aanand [director] hasn't shot any sequence where people go 'Arey dekho, chota height wala ghoda chala raha hain.' Even if he is doing that, then it's normal. The idea was to ensure that his character is acceptable. Secondly, when you have characters with special ability, a lot of emotions shift towards sympathy. Hence, we have ensured that the characters don't appear like they are in need of sympathy. It shouldn't be like 'Arey Bechara' or 'Bechari'. Whether it's from their friends, family, those around them or even the audience. We wanted to bring about an equality, and not bank on sympathy. And, I don't think any human being looks for it either. Yes, we look for love, friendship and happiness. But, definitely not sympathy.

No individual is perfect, either mentally, emotionally or physically. I think we should accept that fact, so that we don't waste time trying to be someone else

Considering this was the first time you are essaying the role of a dwarf, did the character come with its own set of challenges for you as an actor?
No, I think VFX made things very easy for me. So, during the first 7-8 days, the process took us much longer than we thought, and then we realised. We took 200 days to make the film, and that was followed by a lot of work on post production. Beyond that, I don't think so. Zero is a very cosy and emotional film. By solely highlighting that this is a VFX film, we didn't want to lose out on the small joys, relationships and elements that make it different. So, the VFX team told us - "Behave the way you are. We will manage the rest." So, I had to be careful of minute things. Like, I can't walk with a longer slide. If I climb stairs, it has to be a ramp, so that my steps looks smaller. Some touch ups during dance. Otherwise, I was more or else asked to behave normally. While shooting, I used to actually stand in a pit most of the times. So, rest of the cast could see me from a certain angle.

Was there any real person who inspired or helped you understand the nuances required to essay Bauua Singh, especially the movements as a dwarf?
Yes! Ashish, who is an actor from Delhi, helped with everything behind the scenes. The idea was not to use a body double, so we didn't want to duplicate. But, Ashish has worked really hard. He would enact every scene before we did the final shot, so that the character has the right perspective. That was a technical requirement. He was extremely helpful and sweet.

For me, the journey is important. I don't focus on the finish line, but look at it from the perspective of a milestone

Zero is considered to a complete number, yet incomplete. What's your perspective towards the number like, and how do you co-relate it to the film? Also, do you perceive yourself as a complete artist?
Zero is a perspective. It is nothing, and yet complete. That's the whole film. Sab nazariye ki baat hain. I'll tell you what, I have never felt complete. As an artist, I still feel incomplete, and if I am not, then I would not like to work. Why else would I wake up in the morning and strive to work harder than I did a day before? I am always thinking whether I can bring in something new within the commercial cinema set up that I work in - be it as an actor, producer or whichever capacity it maybe. So, I am extremely restless. I believe that if you think you are complete, then you are boring. I don't look at things in order to complete them. For me, the journey is important. I don't focus on the finish line, but look at it from the perspective of a milestone. I never plan things, nor do I have set ideas - this is how much I should earn, the number of awards I should win, or how many hit films I should have make. It's all very organic, because once you work in the industry as long as I have, specifics become less important. You can't pinpoint and say, "Picture aisi banao, toh aisi chalegi. Friday ko collection hoga," No matter how big an expert you are, eventually, the business is complete dependent upon the story that you are telling. So, I find myself becoming lesser expert about a film, and I think that's one reason why I am enjoying the process of working on the films that I am doing. I am just very happy, and after working in the industry for 25 years, the only reason you should continue working should be for pure happiness of your art.

You have spoken about the amount of efforts that have gone into the making of this film. Is there any amount of nervousness, especially since you are trying something unique yet again?
I think for this film, I am a little more nervous than the usual. We've been working really hard on all the aspects related to the film since so many months now. Through the process, you get so tired, that you really have no feeling left. You just hope that what you have made is liked and accepted by the audience. And, you never know. Sometimes, people end up liking films that you don't think are that great, and then, some don't like what you think is good. I have worked for so many years, but I can't analyse how a film should be. I guess those who spend money on it are the ones who can analyse it best - the audience. So, I just let things be. Ab jaisi hai, vaisi hai. Uska kuch kar nahi sakte (smiles).

Stay tuned for Part II of our candid conversation with Shah Rukh Khan!

Are you excited to watch Zero tomorrow? Share your excitement in the comment below or Join the conversation on
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Love,
The Dancebee

When the queen arrives, she arrives in style! Veere Di Wedding marks her return on the big screen after a two year hiatus, but one never really felt like they were missing out on Kareena Kapoor Khan. The actress, who was last seen in Udta Punjab, was pretty much in the news throughout her pregnancy 'break'. From brand shoots to posing for magazine covers and attending launch events; Kareena made a strong statement by ditching long naps and joining millions of women across the globe, who are known to skilfully multi task, even if that means turning show stopper for designer Sabyasachi at Lakme Fashion Week, proudly flaunting a baby bump.

On a rather hot and sunny afternoon, we caught up with the actress. Looking fresh as ever, she stepped out of her vanity, dressed in a Polka Dot dress by Michael Kors. While the shutterbugs began to get the perfect picture, Bebo was rather unfazed. "Ghar jaldi jaana hain, Taimur is waiting," she quipped, requesting the paparazzi to hurry. Within minutes, she entered the studio and settled down for a quick chat! While excerpts from the interaction follow, I must share an interesting moment. Just before wrapping up the day's work, the actress stepped out in smart casuals. While Kareena was obliging fans with selfies and discussing the week's schedule with her manager, I walked past her with a smile. Our eyes met, and she smiled back. Within seconds, I heard her say, "So hot these days na! Always carry a bottle of water. It's essential to keep yourself hydrated all year round. Stay hydrated, okay!" I smiled (again) and thanked the actress. Amused, and quite taken aback. Reason? Well, I had forgotten to carry my bottle that day. Just a few minutes before this incident, I was checking with the team if there was any mineral water around. Unfortunately, there wasn't any, and I had to wait till the end to go out and buy one. So, Bebo's advice was definitely appreciated! Well, that's Kareena Kapoor Khan for you. We don't call her the 'Queen' for nothin'. And now, it's time we 'dive' into our chat with the stunning star:

Is there any personality trait in Kalindi that you could relate to?

Actually, Kalindi is very different from the person that I am. I am very practical, and I am sure of what I want or would like to do. People who know me will tell that I am very head strong. If I make a decision, then I will stick to it. That way, Kalindi is completely opposite.

At any point in life, did you develop cold feet while being in a relationship? Like your character - Kalindi in the film?

Not at all! Everyone knows that I have never been commitment phobic. Kalindi is a lot like that, but not me. I have always been very clear about my choices in life. Even generally, as a person, I am very clear about what I want to do. So, I've never really been in that kind of a situation.

We have seen some successful women centric films in the recent past, with many of them crossing the 100cr mark at the BO. Do you think people are more open to watching a woman centric film in the Indian industry today, compared to a few decades ago?

Of course! There have been a lot of women oriented films, with the female actor carrying the film on her shoulders, and they have successfully done it. Right from The Dirty Picture to Queen and now, Raazi; these films have done really well. I believe that if the film is good, and has the perfect script, then it doesn't matter whether it's a hero or a heroine leading it. If the film is made well, then the audience will surely support it!

A lot of people usually associate the Hindi film 'Heroine' to just be a glamorous addition to the cast? With powerful female characters dominating the scene, do you think that stereotype is finally breaking away?

Absolutely! Whether it is mainstream cinema or any other kind, ultimately what matters is your film. I know it's quite a task to constantly look perfect in front of the camera and maintain your hair, make up. But, all of that is secondary, especially when compared to your character and what you are doing in the film. It's important to take your job seriously, which we all do. 

During the filming of Veere... it was great to see you juggling multiple duties - that of an actor and mom. Did you face any challenges while maintaining that fine balance?

Not really. Perhaps, it was just the time factor. There are days when I want to spend all my time with Taimur. But, I think women know how to multi-task very well. Also, I am very happy that I have an excellent support system, and that's one of the main reasons why I can work and make time out for the family as well.

2018 will see many star kids make a splash in the industry. If you look back to the time when you debuted with Refugee, was there any pressure or baggage that came with being a 'Kapoor' kid?

I think that lasts only till your first film hits the screen. After that, all that you do - including the way you choose the scripts, films or even the way you lead your life - is your own.

Taimur has constantly been the apple of social media's eye, with videos and photos of him posted all over. Do you think all of it takes away from the little one's privacy?

Honestly, I don't know what to say! I just feel the media shouldn't be taking so many pictures all the time. He is still a little boy, and all of us are quite concerned. I do understand the media's point of view, so what can I do? (pauses) All I can do is request people to not do that. 

Will we see you do more films in the coming year, and would it be a conscious decision to limit your time on the sets?

Well, I did Veere... (Veere Di Wedding) right after Taimur's birth. But, I definitely want to spend more time with my baby, rather than a set. So, I've decided to do just one film a year.

Have you ever imagined a life without facing the camera?

Ummm.. I can imagine my life without it. Maybe, 20 - 30 years later. But, having said that, I would always want to work. At least, till the time I can. The thing is, I can't think of what I would be doing 30 years later, but hopefully, I will always work. Or let's put it this way - I will always try to keep working!

Are your excited to watch Kareena Kapoor Khan as Kalindi Puri in Veere Di Wedding?

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The Dancebee

A day will come when daughters will ask their father to buy them a sanitary pad while returning home. This is a natural process which helps a woman give birth to a child

In the future, I want sanitary pads to be distributed free of cost. More and more women should be able to afford a pad. Today, close to 90% women are not able to afford it

We always have a first aid kit at shoots. But, where's the menstrual kit? Where can she get medicines and sanitary pads in emergencies?

During the 90's, I did a lot of action. Film makers did not give me any other roles. Whenever an action film would come up, they would say give it give to him.  I used to loathe myself for doing the same kind of roles