'My biggest achievement...': Priyadarshan recalls working with Salman, Govinda
What's the story
Veteran filmmaker Priyadarshan, who has directed several Bollywood and Malayalam films over four decades, recently opened up about his experiences working with Salman Khan and Govinda. He revealed that his "biggest achievement" isn't the Padma Shri award but finishing films with these actors on time. "My biggest achievement is working with Govinda and Salman (Khan) on time and finishing it in one or two schedules," he told Pinkvilla.
Filmmaker's insights
This is what Priyadarshan said about Khan and Govinda
Priyadarshan directed Khan in Kyon Ki and Govinda in Bhagam Bhag. He also worked with Shah Rukh Khan on the 2009 comedy Billu. "There was a fear brought into my mind by other people that they don't come on time. But both of them [Govinda, Salman] were very sweet. They came on set at 7:00am." "SRK used to tell me... I'll be there at 10:00am, so the unit would say even if he comes by 10, it's a big thing."
Trust and comfort
On his comfort level with actors
Priyadarshan also spoke about his comfort level with actors. He said, "I was very happy with Shah Rukh or Govinda. I won't say they're bad actors. The only thing is I was very comfortable with Akshay Kumar and Mohanlal." "They both never ask me what I'm doing. When I go to them with a film, they ask me, 'Are you excited?' When I say yes, they say, 'Let's do the film.' When they trust you...it's my responsibility to deliver."
Upcoming collaborations
Priyadarshan's upcoming films with Kumar
Priyadarshan is set to reunite with Kumar 16 years after Khatta Meetha (2010) for the horror comedy Bhooth Bangla, which will hit theaters next year. They are also working on the thriller Haiwaan, where Kumar will be reuniting with Saif Ali Khan. The actor-director duo is also planning to collaborate on the comedy Hera Pheri 3. Meanwhile, Priyadarshan hopes he'll do his 100th film with Mohanlal.