“We shouldn’t try for numbers but try and make a good film” – Sabbir Khan

By Bollywood Hungama News Network -

June 3, 2014 - 4:34 AM IST

Riding high on the success of Heropanti, Sabbir Khan's sabbatical has finally paid off. The filmmaker is excited about the tremendous response that the film has been getting and he is equally thrilled about Hrithik Roshan requesting for a special screening of Heropanti. Talking to Bollywood Hungama, Sabbir Khan reveals about his thoughts on the success, his idea on 100 crore club, his encounter with Hrithik Roshan and his upcoming films in this interview.

How satisfied are you with the response the film is garnering?

I am totally satisfied. We have done a lot of hard work and with the increasing response each day; the happiness is just growing by leaps and bounds. I am feeling so happy. All the choices that we make, whether it's getting a new cast or shooting the film in a particular way or a decision you have to make about a song, all of it gets validated. It's the biggest high you can get.

“We shouldn’t try for numbers but try and make a good film” – Sabbir Khan

How nervous were you about being pitted against the Rajnikanth starrer Kochadaiiyaan?

I wasn't nervous. Film is a form of religion in this country. People who really want to watch my film will see it no matter what. If they want to watch Kochadaiiyaan first they will do that and then go for Heropanti or may be vice versa. There is always room for good films. Irrespective of where they are releasing on the same day, if you like a film, you will certainly recommend it to others.

What do you think about the criticisms?

To be very honest, the criticisms often confuse me and it gets worse with each year as to what is it that they are looking for. There are some who pan every Bollywood film and a certain section of critics' applaud and appreciate. At the end of the day, I am telling the story that I want to and many people, the paying people are appreciating it. People who are on facebook or twitter have been telling me that they really enjoyed the film. So when they say that you feel like we have got the due.

You have been a part of big star projects... do you think working with them ensures a higher grossing film?

The only thing that matters according to me is the script and who suits it. You can make a film with the biggest stars in Bollywood but if the script isn't up to the mark, they will be ridiculed. And if you make a film with complete random newcomers with an interesting script, they will come out and applaud it. The conviction and script is what matters the most.

What does success mean to you as a creative artist?

I think it is a collective euphoria; when the audience come out after watching the film and give us the feedback. As a filmmaker, you are perceptive of human emotion and you can say who is right or who is speaking it. For the past week, the people I have met who have watched the film want to hug me and have loved the film. They keep talking about their favourite scenes or songs etc. I think that is success. As far as the mixed reviews are concerned, I would say you can't hold back a good film and there is no way you can't promote a bad film.

How important do you think is it to be a part of the 100 crore club or do you think it is concept created by media?

No I don't think it is created by media. Numbers do matter for box office business. Also, every film has a different benchmark. For example Citylights cannot be a 100 crore film or a beautiful film like Queen cannot enter a 100 crore club. But, I also think that public appreciation is the most important. When I made Heropanti I never thought of figures. I just wanted people to say 'Mazaa aaya, achhi film dekhi' and recommend it to others. In fact, in such cases, when many people want to watch the film, your numbers automatically increase. However, I still stand by the fact, that every film should have its own benchmark.

So did Heropanti fulfill its benchmark?

Honestly as I said before, we did not think about numbers while making the film. But now, if people are slotting it in that bracket of highest grosser or record breaker in some way, then obviously I am glad about it. However, that should not be an aim of a filmmaker while making the film. We shouldn't try for numbers but try and make a good film. After all, good work speaks for itself.

Tiger had a fan moment when Hrithik Roshan came to watch Heropanti... What would you say on that?

Firstly, it is so sweet for such a big star to come and watch the film. After all, Tiger is such a huge fan of Hrithik Sir. While I and Tiger were in Delhi for the promotions of the film, he called in to say that he wanted to see the film. He said that his mother and sister had loved the film and also that he saw the promos and thought Tiger was better than him. Tiger was almost embarrassed to hear so much of praises from his idol. As soon as Hrithik came back to the city after completing his shoot, we organized a special screening for him. Hrithik was so warm and after the film, he praised Tiger a lot too! Tiger was super-excited like a baby.

Have you started work on your next script? If yes what is all about or when can we get to hear about it?

For me it's still not over! I haven't had a closure as yet. For the next few weeks it is still Heropanti for me. Of course, I have some ideas in my head that I will flesh it out whenever I get the time. I will start work soon may be after two weeks.

Are you signing Tiger and Kriti again for a film?

Yes, it will be all of us once again! Sajid Sir, me, Tiger and Kriti have been talking about our next film. It's surely on the cards. It will be a romantic thriller that will be apt for the leads. But nothing more has been decided as of now.