Investing in newcomers not a risk: Mahesh Bhatt (Interview)

In his four-decade career, Mahesh Bhatt has never shied away from giving chance to fresh talent in his films - whether it was Anupam Kher in "Saaransh", Rahul Roy in "Aashiqui", or Sunny Leone in "Jism 2". The filmmaker says he doesn't see any risk in investing in newcomers.

"Filmmaking is all about ideas. It is the idea that sells. And if you have a unique story idea, it will get positive responses, irrespective of the star cast of the film," Bhatt said in an email interview with IANS .

"The way I perceive it, investing in newcomers is not a risk. They are the future of our industry and if we can sell a unique idea along with their talent, there is no question of the movie not performing well," he added.

After wielding the megaphone for iconic films like "Arth", "Dil Hai Ke Manta Nahin" and "Murder", Bhatt has moved away from direction to pave way for new and budding directors.

"Every filmmaker has his unique style of directing and as easy as it is for audiences to get accustomed to his style, it is equally easy for them to get weary of it. The industry is evolving and we need fresh and young talent who relate to today's fast moving times," he said.

The 63-year-old, who now mostly oversees the production department of his banner Vishesh Films, feels youngsters bring fresh perspectives and ideas in the style of filmmaking.

"Youth today has the thirst to sell movies with fresh ideas, technical know-how and

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they bring their fresh perspectives and ideas in their style of filmmaking. So, we should give newcomers more opportunities to present their ideas," he said.

"As far as I am concerned, I will write, only when there is a unique demand. But on the whole, I am handing everything over to the creative director," he added.

Bhatt has tried to make films which are different from Bollywood's typical masala potboilers. The filmmaker says he always tries to create something, which reflects a current scenario.

"Time is changing and so are the trends in Bollywood. You have to adapt to every changing trend. There are issues that need our attention and I think the kind of impact films have on people, it can act as an effective medium," he said.

"As a filmmaker, all I want to do is create something that perfectly describes the current scenario of the world. And since it is a film, it should not only convey the message, but also entertain the audience," he added.

Asked how storytelling and technology have evolved over the years, Bhatt said: "Storytelling is a director's perspective. Technology has only enhanced every filmmaker's way of telling the story.

"With advanced technology, ideas have evolved and so has the way people perceive films. Every storyteller wants to keep up with the changing times; so you have to constantly update yourself with new and various technologies available to communicate an idea."

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