Shah Rukh Khan's last outing at the Box Office, 'Jab Harry Met Sejal', didn't quite manage to live up to the expectations of the audiences. This year, saw two Shah Rukh starrer releases - 'Raees' and 'Jab Harry Met Sejal', both of which underperformed. However, Shah Rukh's next is an untitled Aanand L Rai film which will see the actor play a dwarf, a character he has never played before.
In an interview with a leading tabloid, Aanand was asked about working with Shah Rukh. To this, the filmmaker said, "Khan Saab and I hardly speak about anything beyond food and movies. He doesn't have a large appetite though, but, I think I will end up changing that about him. He will also bring about some or the other change in me."
Aanand further added, "He is the best actor I could have got for the film. He is the source of strength for all of us. And he asks us to chill and enjoy. He says ki khaatey peetey film ban jayegi." The film also stars Anushka Sharma and Katrina Kaif in pivotal roles.
With Shah Rukh's last two films' failure at the Box Office, Aanand was asked if he feels the pressure to deliver a hit with the actor. "Not at all. I filter it out and replace it with excitement. We are aware that his films haven't worked. It's there in front of us, we can't deny that. Box-office collections don't affect him as much. Bank account deposits are the last thing on his mind. What affects him is that he might be losing the love of people," continued Aanand.
Further adding, "With our film, I know I will rectify his relationship with the audience. I can sense what people are seeking. I will be honest to my craft and will work hard for my audience. I won't let the reactions to his last films cloud my head right now. I am here to deliver and I will do a damn good job of it. Right now, we are having fun at work and I won't let anything change that."
When asked about Shah Rukh's reaction to the negative reactions about himself, Aanand was quick to quip, "Khan Saab is a believer, an eternal optimist. He believes in people. Over the years, he trusted many filmmakers and got great returns. And then there are times when you don't get the expected returns. Such is life! He can't be blamed for the choices he made because they are straight out of his heart. He isn't a man of mathematics, he doesn't think about numbers. He is a pure soul, who will put his trust again on a great project and win his audience back."
CREDITS: MID-DAY