The Enduring Legacy of Vidhu Vinod Chopra: A Filmmaker Like No Other

The world of Indian cinema is replete with talented filmmakers, each with their unique style and approach to storytelling. However, there are a few who stand out from the rest, and Vidhu Vinod Chopra is undoubtedly one of them. Recently, directors Ram Gopal Varma and Anurag Kashyap sat down for an interview, and the conversation turned to their experiences working with the renowned filmmaker. What ensued was a hilarious and insightful discussion that shed light on Chopra’s creative genius, as well as his quirks and idiosyncrasies.

A Self-Obsessed Genius?

Anurag Kashyap, known for his critically acclaimed films like Gangs of Wasseypur, had a fascinating story to share about his time working with Chopra on Mission Kashmir. Although he didn’t reveal too much, Kashyap did mention that he had written a script for Shivam Nair to direct for television, which ultimately led to him leaving Mission Kashmir. When asked about his decision, Kashyap praised Chopra’s creative mind, saying, “The child in him is still alive. His self-obsession and vanity co-exist.” This dichotomy, according to Kashyap, is what makes Chopra’s films so unique and captivating.

Kashyap also commended Chopra’s craftsmanship, particularly in his latest film, 12th Fail. He singled out a sequence where Vikrant Massey’s character travels to Uttarakhand, praising the way Chopra designed the single-shot scene. “When he’s at his peak craftsmanship, you do admire him,” Kashyap added. This sentiment is a testament to Chopra’s ability to balance his creative vision with technical expertise, resulting in films that are both visually stunning and emotionally resonant.

Ram Gopal Varma’s Amusing Anecdotes

Ram Gopal Varma, known for his bold and unconventional filmmaking style, had his own set of hilarious stories to share about working with Chopra. During a script narration for Mission Kashmir, Varma recalled Chopra mentioning the word “shikara” (houseboat). However, Varma, not being a native Hindi speaker, assumed that “shikara” meant “hunter.” The confusion led to a series of amusing misunderstandings, with Varma asking Chopra why the “hunter” was killed. Chopra’s reaction, according to Varma, was one of shock and anger, with the former thinking that Varma was about to get hit.

Varma also claimed that Chopra genuinely believes he is the best filmmaker in the world. While Varma didn’t comment on the validity of this claim, he did acknowledge that Chopra’s confidence in his abilities is undeniable. This unwavering self-assurance has likely contributed to Chopra’s success, allowing him to take risks and push the boundaries of storytelling in Indian cinema.

The Enigmatic Vidhu Vinod Chopra

Through the conversations with Kashyap and Varma, a complex portrait of Vidhu Vinod Chopra emerges. On one hand, he is a creative genius with a childlike sense of wonder and a passion for storytelling. On the other hand, he is a self-obsessed individual with an unshakeable confidence in his abilities. This paradox is perhaps what makes Chopra’s films so captivating, as they reflect both his technical expertise and his unique perspective on the world.

As the Indian film industry continues to evolve, it’s essential to appreciate the contributions of filmmakers like Vidhu Vinod Chopra. His unwavering dedication to his craft and his unrelenting passion for storytelling have inspired a generation of filmmakers, including Kashyap and Varma. As we look to the future of Indian cinema, it will be exciting to see how Chopra’s legacy continues to shape the industry and inspire new talent.

Content originally published by indianexpress.com