Saif Ali Khan will complete 25 years in the film industry next year. His first movie was ‘Parampara’ in 1993 and his current film ‘Chef’ which is to release this Friday is an Indian adaptation of the 2014 American film of the same name by Jon Favreau.
The National award winner said to a leading portal, “India is like a different country now. I have witnessed some huge changes in terms of filmmaking techniques (in the last couple of decades). Digital (technology) has changed a lot of things. Things are done a lot faster now… In a way, that’s good. I have stopped worrying about my first take though, because it’s so easy to do one more now. Of course, I try and get it right always, but earlier I think there was a lot more attention on getting it right on the first attempt itself. As editing and dubbing have become simpler, I worry less now as it can protect me. Today’s acting style has changed to more international and natural. For me, it’s more fun to do acting now.”
Saif wanted to understand the problem of dealing with family, divorce and child. He said “’Chef’ is a mix — both art and commercial. I agree that the entertainment industry needs to feature newer stories and fresher content. I think ‘Chef’ is a step in the right direction. Some of the smaller films have been more exciting because they seemed fresher somehow. I am excited about (finding out) what response this film gets”.
Saif further added “It’s difficult. People say that they want to do this or do that, but (as a parent) you would prefer them to be safer. In ‘Chef’, my father wants me to be a doctor or an engineer. He gets really upset when I say that I want to become a chef. All parents want security for their children. There are many more career options nowadays. We say this is a post-‘3 Idiots’ film where you get to follow your heart.”
Saif when asked about family,“Earlier, parents used to decide a lot of things for you. In my family, we always listen to our children — Sara wants to join films; that’s fine as that’s something she has always wanted to do. I am happy with what my children want to be”.
Saif concluded saying “I prefer working in solo-hero projects because there you can be more relaxed and work at your own pace. But I am happy to do a two-hero film — if the role is good. I have had a wonderful timing with Shah Rukh. I really enjoyed ‘Kal Ho Naa Ho’. It was very nice to see Akshay on his show (‘The Great Indian Laughter Challenge’). He is a really nice and fun person to work with”.
