Director Atlee, known for his remarkable success in Tamil cinema, has embarked on an exciting cinematic journey by collaborating with Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan for his latest film, 'Jawan.' In an exclusive interview, Atlee shares insights into the making of this mass actioner, the challenge of channeling SRK's persona, and the core themes that drive the film.Atlee's career trajectory has been nothing short of spectacular. Starting with the romantic comedy 'Raja Rani' in 2013, he quickly rose to fame, consistently delivering hit films, especially with Tamil superstar Vijay. His signature style became synonymous with the mass formula that resonated with audiences.
However, 'Jawan' marks a significant departure from Atlee's comfort zone as he steps into the world of Bollywood and teams up with Shah Rukh Khan, one of the most iconic actors in Indian cinema. In the interview, Atlee expresses his reverence for SRK, admitting that he's a fan of all facets of the actor's career, whether it be his romantic roles, negative portrayals, or patriotic characters.
When asked about the kind of Shah Rukh Khan he wanted to pay tribute to through 'Jawan,' Atlee reveals his aspiration to create a mass avatar of the actor. He believes that this aspect of SRK's repertoire had been somewhat unexplored, and he was excited to bring it to the forefront.
One of the most intriguing aspects of the interview is the discussion of how Atlee overcame the challenge of SRK's well-established persona. Initially, Atlee considered making a film in the vein of 'Raja Rani' but was surprised when SRK expressed his desire to delve into the Atlee world. This prompted Atlee to develop a fresh concept to suit SRK's style, and the result is 'Jawan,' where fans get to witness the Bollywood superstar in a new avatar.
Atlee emphasizes the importance of striking a balance between fan service and storytelling when making a star vehicle or a tribute film. He believes that, irrespective of the star power, a film must have a core message that resonates with the audience. In 'Jawan,' this core thought revolves around patriotism, and Atlee is proud that the film captures this emotion effectively.
The interview also touches upon some of the standout moments in 'Jawan,' including a pivotal scene where Vikram Rathore's memory returns, triggered by a powerful moment. Atlee acknowledges that this scene draws from the grammar of cinema taught by legendary actors and filmmakers, making it a memorable sequence in the film.
As 'Jawan' explores themes of patriotism and family, Atlee shares that the film's essence is deeply rooted in the emotion of being Indian. It aims to convey a universal message that resonates with viewers across different backgrounds.
In conclusion, Atlee's journey from Tamil blockbusters to his Bollywood debut with Shah Rukh Khan showcases his versatility as a filmmaker. 'Jawan' is not just a star-studded tribute but a film that carries a message close to Atlee's heart, making it a significant addition to his impressive filmography. With the bar set high, fans can anticipate even bigger and better projects from this talented director in the future.
