‘At first, I thought he was kidding’

Remo D’souza’s ambition was fulfilled in the most amazing way. Remo didn’t know until the last minute that he’d get to direct Race 3, starring the actor whom he always wanted to direct — Salman Khan.

“It truly is a dream come true for me,” Remo says, adding, “A night before the announcement, I didn’t know that I would direct Race 3. The movie came to me as a huge surprise. Salman casually asked me if I’d like to direct the film. First, I thought he was kidding, but when I learnt he was serious, I immediately said yes.” This makes a full circle for Remo — he started off as a background dancer before moving on to choreography and direction; he has helmed five films to date, including Race 3; and in the early days of his career, he was a background dancer in Salman’s films. Remo says that he has been a fan of Salman ever since the actor’s debut. “I used to be thrilled to see his larger-than-life persona on screen. Every time he makes an appearance on-screen, his entry sequences have always created frenzy in cinema halls. With Race 3, it was a challenge to up the ante of introducing one of India’s biggest stars in a popular action franchise. Race 3 will be a treat for all Salman Khan fans,” he says.

Talking about the actor, the director says, “Salman is a producer who cares deeply for his films. He ensured that the process of making the movie was smooth. We are currently working on completing the pre-production work of the film, and that will hopefully mark our second collaboration,” he says.

A night before the announcement, I didn’t know that I would direct Race 3. The movie came to me as a huge surprise.

REMO D’SOUZA, FILMMAKER

PHOTO: AP Salman Khan