EXCLUSIVE: Kunal Kemmu on making directorial debut with Madgaon Express, “Being an actor on set for a long time was a big help” : Bollywood News

Kunal Kemmu ventured into filmmaking earlier this year with his debut directorial project, Madgaon Express. While speaking about the transition from actor to director, Kemmu openly shared the challenges and triumphs he faced during this transformative journey in the Bollywood Hungama round table.

EXCLUSIVE: Kunal Kemmu on making directorial debut with Madgaon Express, “Being an actor on set for a long time was a big help”

Kunal Kemmu on Directing Debut
"I wasn’t sure if it’s good enough to send out to people who are professionals," Kemmu admitted, reflecting on his initial doubts about the script and his ability to take the helm as a director. With no formal education in filmmaking, the process was daunting. "I was very nervous as I never directed or went to a film school.”

Experience On Set Shaped a Directorial Journey
Kemmu found the prospect of directing too enticing to ignore. "It was a risk which was very tempting to take," he said, describing his decision to embrace challenge. Years of acting experience became a cornerstone of his directorial process. "Being an actor on set for a long time was a big help," Kemmu shared. Having observed directors and the intricacies of filmmaking over the years, he was able to draw from his wealth of on-set experiences to guide his approach.

Earning Respect and Finding Success
Directing also brought a profound sense of learning and growth. "You can’t ask for respect, you earn it, and I felt it in the process of directing," he remarked, speaking about how the journey deepened his appreciation for the craft and the people involved in filmmaking. Casting, often a critical aspect of any film, was another area where Kemmu found success. "Majorly satisfied with the casting," he said, indicating his confidence in the team of actors who brought his vision to life.

Commitment to Storytelling
With Madgaon Express, Kemmu has not only embraced the challenges of directing but also demonstrated a commitment to storytelling.

Also Read: Kunal Kemmu chases a ‘different high’ as he takes off on a dreamy bike trip to Ladakh