Priyadarshan Discusses Working with Talented Yet Challenging Actors Like Akshaye Khanna
Insights from Priyadarshan on Actor Dynamics
Filmmakers often go to great lengths to collaborate with exceptionally talented actors, even if they are perceived as 'difficult'. Recently, Priyadarshan shared his experiences working with Akshaye Khanna, whom he described as challenging yet one of the most gifted actors he has worked with. This discussion comes as Khanna garners acclaim for his compelling role as Rehman Dakait in the film Dhurandhar. In an exclusive interview, Priyadarshan elaborated on the importance of understanding actors' personalities to maximize their potential. He also touched upon his experiences with Salman Khan.
Navigating Relationships with Actors
How did Priyadarshan deal with Salman Khan?
Priyaadarshan candidly explained that the first step in working with actors is acceptance. He emphasized the need to understand actors for who they are rather than trying to change them. He noted that attempting to impose behavior can lead to negative outcomes. He believes that being 'diplomatically arrogant' is crucial in filmmaking. He stated, "The first thing you have to do is accept these people as they are." He illustrated this point with an example involving Salman Khan, suggesting that direct instructions might lead to unexpected results. Therefore, establishing a personal connection and mutual respect is vital. The seasoned director highlighted that actors must like and trust their filmmakers, saying, "I think they have to like you as a person." His background in psychology has aided him in managing diverse personalities throughout his career, allowing him to work effectively with many talented artists.
Akshaye Khanna: A Complex Talent
Akshaye Khanna is 'difficult to work with'?
When discussing Akshaye Khanna, Priyadarshan referred to him as a 'difficult person' but clarified that he never encountered significant challenges while collaborating. The two have worked together on several films, including Hungama, Hulchul, Doli Saja Ke Rakhna, Mere Baap Pehle Aap, and Aakrosh. Priyadarshan remarked, "Akshaye (Khanna) is another difficult person. I have done seven or eight films. No difficulty." He praised Khanna's ability to seamlessly transition between roles, citing his recent intense performance in Dhurandhar and his comedic role as 'Jeetu from Videocon' in Hungama.
The director recalled advice from Amitabh Bachchan, who once said that actors are like beggars who cannot choose. Priyadarshan interpreted this as a call to provide actors with the best material to elicit outstanding performances, concluding, "So you give them the best and exploit them with their talent. That's the way I always worked with that."
On the professional front, Akshaye Khanna was last seen in Dhurandhar and is set to appear in Netflix's Ikka alongside Sunny Deol. Meanwhile, Priyadarshan is looking forward to the release of Bhooth Bangla, featuring Akshay Kumar, and is also directing Haiwaan.