The movie ‘Jab We Met,’ directed by Imtiaz Ali, is considered iconic, not only for a whole generation but also for its main actors,
Shahid Kapoor
and
Kareena Kapoor
Khan. The film not only boosted their careers but also became a beloved classic. Surprisingly,
Imtiaz Ali
was initially discouraged from casting Shahid and Kareena in the movie.
During a conversation with India Today, Ali discussed his approach to casting actors.
When questioned about whether he feels pressured to choose actors based on their popularity or market value, he responded, “Luckily, in my career, I have had varying chances with the so-called success of, or the position of stars, so to speak. I remember a time when Shahid and Kareena came for Jab We Met. And then I was told that we can get a better casting. Because at that point, Shahid and Kareena were not doing well. But to the contrary, the film worked so much.”
Imtiaz added, “You know people love that film, right? So I feel that I, as a filmmaker, should not be looking at the film market like stock exchange. Speculation is not what is really needed from a film director or a filmmaker or a producer as well. One must see the potential of a certain person in the role that you are offering them,”
Imtiaz mentioned that selecting actors based on how well they fit the character and role written in the script has consistently been successful for him. He concluded by saying, “A film works when you go with the
actor
who is best suited for that role, not what might be the present trend. I feel that in my experience, that’s my learning.”
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