None of your earlier productions Malang, Jaane Jaan, Freddy were out and out actioners. What brings you to this genre?
Having grown up on Mr Bachchan’s film, I always wanted a produce a film about a common man who rises to power, so when my director Pulkit came to me with this script, I jumped and at the end of the narration and said I am doing it .
Why Rajkummar Rao?
The idea from the very beginning was to cast someone who hasn’t done this genre which we believe has today given us the edge. People are excited to see Raj do this cause he hasn’t done it before.
How is Raj off camera?
Raj is by far one of the nicest human beings this business has. He walks on to a set not just as an actor but a total team player. I understand now why every producer who works with him always repeats him.
Pulkit is one of the most promising new filmmakers?
Pulkit holds a massive advantage as he is not a director but also a writer, so the clarity with which he narrated Maalik to me… I had no doubt about him being able to handle a film on this scale.
Is it tough for an independent producer to survive in today’s entertainment business?
The journey of an independent producer is pretty tough nowadays, no doubt. But speaking for myself I am here cause I enjoy this chaos. I believe it’s a privilege to be able to make a film today. The joy of shooting one and the anxiety during release is what I enjoy the most.
Why do you think the audience will go to the movie theatres to see Maalik?
I feel the audience will want to watch Maalik as they get to see Raj in a new avatar. Also, the genre is action which is very popular. The music of the film that’s already in the charts. The relatability with the characters that is pretty evident in the trailer. All in all being a masala entertainer with a heart.
What next?
Next is a film titled inspector Zende for Netflix starring Manoj Bajpayee and Jim Sarbh. It should be up for release in the next couple of months.
