Renowned filmmaker Vidhu Vinod Chopra recently shared his candid observations on how success transforms individuals in the Bollywood industry, including actors and former assistants.
Chopra’s Quest for Purity in Talent
Vidhu Vinod Chopra, the creative mind behind blockbusters like “Munna Bhai MBBS” and “3 Idiots,” openly discussed his approach to hiring. He expressed a strong preference for new and inexperienced talent, stating that “there is more purity in new people, less corruption.”
He noted a noticeable shift in the demeanor of many former assistants who have since become successful filmmakers. Chopra believes that initial purity often fades once an individual achieves widespread recognition.
The Impact of Stardom on Actors
Chopra didn’t shy away from naming prominent actors he feels have changed after finding success. He mentioned working with stars like Hrithik Roshan, Vidya Balan, and Boman Irani early in their careers.
According to Chopra, once these actors tasted success, their personalities seemed to alter. This observation reinforces his preference for working with “nobodies,” as he believes they retain their original selves before fame takes hold.
Success and the “Bank Balance Spine”
The filmmaker also criticized the industry’s current focus, suggesting that many producers, directors, and actors now prioritize box office hits over creative vision. He observed that a massive film earning hundreds of crores can dramatically change a person’s attitude and walk.
Chopra recounted an anecdote about a producer whose polite demeanor vanished after a film became a hit, replaced by an air of newfound importance. He jokingly remarked that this producer’s “spine is connected to his bank balance,” implying that financial success dictates their bearing rather than the quality of their work.
A Counterpoint: Chopra’s Own Transformation?
Interestingly, Chopra himself has faced similar accusations. Actor Paresh Rawal once revealed that he turned down a role in “Munna Bhai MBBS” due to Chopra’s perceived arrogance after achieving success.
Rawal stated that Chopra began “ignoring the people he started off with” once his career took off, suggesting that the director might also have undergone a similar transformation.
From Assistant to Auteur: Sanjay Leela Bhansali
Chopra also recalled the early days of Sanjay Leela Bhansali, who was once his assistant. He noted that while Bhansali, now a renowned director, “screams a lot these days,” he was once a “meek guy” when collecting an award on Chopra’s behalf.
- Vidhu Vinod Chopra prefers new talent for their “purity” and “less corruption.”
- He believes success changed actors like Hrithik Roshan and Vidya Balan.
- Chopra suggests that for many, their “spine is connected to their bank balance,” influencing their demeanor.
- He himself has been accused of changing after achieving success.
Despite his critical observations, Chopra’s recent directorial venture, “12th Fail,” starring Vikrant Massey, garnered significant critical acclaim and public appreciation, proving that quality work still resonates deeply.
