Kunal Kohli Criticizes Modern Bollywood's Risk-Averse Approach, Recalls 'Fanaa's Bold Legacy
In today's Bollywood landscape, where safe sequels and massive action franchises dominate the box office, director Kunal Kohli is casting a nostalgic eye back to an era when the industry embraced far greater creative risks. In a recent, candid interview, Kohli expressed deep concern over the current trend, lamenting that contemporary filmmakers and stars are increasingly "shying away" from the kind of bold, tragic storytelling that defined his 2006 cinematic masterpiece, 'Fanaa'. This reflection comes as a poignant critique of an industry now often criticized for playing it too safe.
'Fanaa's Unconventional Narrative and Today's Cinematic Climate
During a detailed conversation with SCREEN, Kunal Kohli delved into the film's groundbreaking and unconventional storyline, which starkly contrasts with many of today's offerings. "It's just sad that heroes and producers are shying away from subjects that are bold and different," Kohli stated emphatically. He elaborated on the unique premise of 'Fanaa', explaining, "Because in 'Fanaa', the hero isn't a hero; he's a villain. It's the love story of a terrorist. And there's no salvation. He gets shot dead by the woman he loves and the woman who loves him." This tragic, morally complex conclusion is something Kohli believes modern cinema largely avoids, favoring happier, more formulaic endings.
Aditya Chopra's Initial Reservations About Casting Aamir Khan
Kohli also shared revealing insights into the film's production challenges, particularly regarding casting. He disclosed that producer Aditya Chopra had significant reservations when Kohli proposed approaching Aamir Khan for the lead role. "When I wanted to go to Aamir, Adi (Aditya Chopra) wasn't very keen," Kohli recalled. Chopra expressed concerns about potential delays, reportedly saying in Hindi, "Arey yaar! Wo time pass karega. Tujhe apni god mein bithaega 6 mahine ke liye, phir nahi karega. Bahut time waste hoga. Tumhe time waste karna hai, tum karo." This translates to expressing worry that Aamir might take up time and then decline, leading to wasted effort. Chopra even questioned Kohli's ambition, adding, "Achha, tumhari ek picture hit ho gayi, tumhe Aamir Khan chahiye?" implying skepticism after just one hit film.
Kohli's Firm Insistence on Aamir Khan Proved Crucial
Despite these doubts, Kunal Kohli remained steadfast in his conviction. He explained his reasoning clearly: "I said I wanted him in the first one too. And since I got Hrithik Roshan in the first one, why should I not go to Aamir Khan now?" This persistence was a defining moment, as Kohli moved ahead with his decision, believing Aamir was the perfect fit for the complex role. His determination ultimately paid off when Aamir Khan agreed to come on board after hearing the compelling script.
Aamir Khan's Enthusiastic Response and Collaborative Process
Kohli detailed Aamir Khan's immediate and positive reaction to the story. "Aamir heard the story within a week," he shared. The actor was so engaged that he requested the script be written in Urdu instead of English to better capture the essence. Kohli completed the draft quickly but waited two weeks before presenting it, not wanting Aamir to think the dialogues were hastily prepared. However, Aamir did have initial questions about Kohli's directorial capability. "He questioned a lot whether I'm the right person to direct because I hadn't done something like that before," Kohli admitted. Aamir even asked Aditya Chopra, "If you've got a subject like this in your company, why are you not directing it?" To which Chopra confidently replied, "Because I don't think anyone can do it better than Kunal." This endorsement helped solidify the collaboration.
Kunal Kohli's reflections serve as a powerful reminder of a time when Bollywood was willing to venture into darker, more nuanced territories. As the industry continues to evolve, his words highlight a growing call for a return to the daring storytelling that once produced iconic films like 'Fanaa'.
