I’M UNDER A LOT OF PRESSURE, SAYS REMO
Directing the third instalment of the hit franchise, Race 3, involves much stress, says the filmmaker
With his upcoming film, Race 3, just few days away from its release, filmmaker Remo D’Souza is enjoying this “mixed feeling” of excitement and nervousness. “It’s crazy. It’s like when you know you’ve written the exam well but you are waiting for the result,” he says. Directing an ensemble cast with big stars, which includes Salman Khan, Anil Kapoor, Jacqueline Fernandez and Bobby Deol, Remo calls this film a “learning experience”. In a freewheeling chat, the filmmaker opens up about taking the hit franchise forward and the pressure which comes along, directing Salman Khan, making him dance and more. Is there a pressure to take the franchise forward and match the popularity of previous films?
As a maker, yes, I’m under pressure. Both Race 1 and Race 2 have done well and they were directed by legends Abbas-Mustan, of whom I’m a fan. Now, I’ve come in as the director, have Salman Khan, and a huge cast and the action is next level, so there’s a lot of pressure. Is Salman Khan a directors’ actor or was it tough to direct him? This was a surprise film for me. I still can’t believe that I’ve finished shooting the film before time. It’s also Salman’s fastest film and it all happened because of him. He was there on time and did everything leaving me surprised. So, it was very, very easy. Any special anecdote you remember from the shoot?
I’ve learned a lot from every actor in this film. But Salman sir and Anil Kapoor have taught me so much. They’re so grounded and passionate about making films and so professional about the process that it’s unbelievable. I remember once Salman had to fly back to Mumbai, and he was reaching early morning. I said, ‘Take rest and then come on the sets by afternoon.’ But at 7 in the morning, I got a call from him, saying,‘I’m at the airport and I’m coming to the sets now.’ That was amazing. How tough it was to make Salman dance in the film?
My idea [from day one] was to make him dance. I know he has this typical style of small steps that people love. And, in addition to that, I made sure he tried other dance styles, too. He loves dancing, so it wasn’t much of a challenge. Do you agree Salman is going to be the high point in the film? He’s got his fan following and people love him for the star he is. I’m a huge Salman fan; like those who whistle, clap and jump each time he comes onscreen. I always wanted to do a film with him.