Pankaj Kapur: The Perfectionist Actor Who Demands Scripts
Pankaj Kapur's Reputation as a Challenging Actor
Pankaj Kapur is frequently described as a ‘challenging actor’. Renowned for his perfectionism, he pays attention to details that many performers overlook. Having received numerous awards acknowledging his contributions to Indian cinema, Kapur insists on receiving scripts for the films he participates in. In a recent interview with Zoom regarding his new film, Jab Khuli Kitaab, alongside Dimple Kapadia, he explained the reasons behind the label of being a ‘difficult actor’. He firmly stated that he will not compromise on his requirement for a well-prepared script before arriving on set.
Understanding the Label of 'Difficult Actor'
Why is Pankaj Kapur called a difficult actor?
Pankaj clarified, in the presence of Jab Khuli Kitaab’s director, Saurabh Shukla, that he does not see himself as difficult. He recounted, “When I transitioned from the School of Drama to Mumbai and sought acting roles, I requested scripts. This led to the perception that I was a difficult actor. For years, this label persisted because I insisted on knowing the structure of the character I was portraying. Many were put off by this, branding me as difficult.”
The Importance of Scripts in Acting
He continued, “In those times, it was uncommon for anyone to request a script, even the lead actors. Directors would simply call actors to set, often providing scenes at the last moment. I admire those actors, but my training taught me that I need a script to understand my character.”
Collaboration with Directors Who Value Scripts
No scripts, no Pankaj Kapur
Pankaj noted that directors like Basu Chatterjee, Vishal Bhardwaj, and Anubhav Sinha, who provided scripts, had no issues working with him. Reflecting on his time during Karamchand, he mentioned how the director was surprised when he requested a script a day before filming. “I insisted that without a script I couldn’t perform effectively. This principle of mine was not always well-received, but those directors who understood my viewpoint offered me diverse roles.”
Pankaj Kapur's Selectivity in Roles
Pankaj Kapur on demand for substantial roles
“When you say I’m choosy, it’s true because I find joy in creating a character from scratch. If I’m offered a role similar to one I’ve already played, it doesn’t excite me. Early in my career, roles were often limited to villains or side characters. I sought substantial roles that allowed me to showcase my acting skills,” he shared with Zoom.
Gratitude for Opportunities
Pankaj expressed his gratitude for the opportunities he has received, despite his strict demands regarding scripts, punctuality, and discipline. “If that makes me difficult, then I embrace that label,” he concluded. His latest film, Jab Khuli Kitaab, is currently available for streaming on ZEE5 in Hindi.