13th June 2023,Mumbai: In an exclusive interview with Hindustan Times, Ali Abbas Zafar, the director of “Bloody Daddy,” provides a comprehensive overview of the creative decisions behind the film. Despite his three-year hiatus from theatrical releases, Zafar engaged his core fans through three OTT projects, including his latest action-packed offering, “Bloody Daddy,” featuring Shahid Kapoor. Here are the key highlights from the interview:
Creating a Unique Gurgaon Gangster Movie with Humor in the COVID Era
Zafar meticulously crafted a Gurgaon-based gangster narrative in “Bloody Daddy” and ingeniously infused humor derived from the COVID-19 era, which forms an essential part of the storyline. The movie’s distinct elements, including intense action, raw dialogue, and sincere performances, resonate with viewers who appreciate its authenticity and sincerity.
Striving for a Credible Action Movie for the Masses
The director aimed to create a credible action movie that would appeal to both critics and the masses. To achieve this, Zafar consciously avoided slow-motion shots and opted for fast-paced, street-brawl-style action sequences. By doing so, he crafted an immersive experience for the audience, ensuring that the action felt realistic and relatable.
The Question of Theatrical Release and Future Possibilities
When discussing the possibility of a theatrical release for “Bloody Daddy,” Zafar acknowledged the desire for a big-screen experience but emphasized the importance of aligning the film’s crucial elements with its intended narrative. Considering the film’s action-oriented nature and unique language, Zafar believes that the current OTT platform suits its portrayal better. However, he remains open to exploring a potential sequel and its potential theatrical release based on audience reception and lasting impact.
Balancing Vulnerability and Complexity in Characters
Zafar explains how the vulnerability of the main character in the original story intrigued him, prompting the search for an actor who could portray a blend of fury and tenderness. Through Shahid Kapoor’s performance, the audience is torn between loving and despising the character, as his true intentions remain concealed until the film’s climax. Nevertheless, the character undoubtedly showcases qualities of a devoted father, adding depth to his complexity.
A Unique Perspective on the COVID Era
Zafar intentionally set the film in an authentic Gurgaon backdrop, drawing inspiration from the peculiar prism through which people view tragedy as comedy in India. He highlights the contrasting reactions during the pandemic, with moments of celebration and partying emerging as a form of vengeance against prolonged confinement. The film captures the essence of Gurgaon NCR, where flamboyant fashion coexists with communication barriers, exemplified by the characters’ obsession with brand names.
Filming Challenges and Artistic Choices
Given the ongoing COVID-19 situation, Zafar and his team established a controlled filming environment, creating a bubble to help the actors and crew immerse themselves imaginatively into the COVID universe portrayed in the movie. The director focused on maintaining a sense of rapid movement within the film, reflecting the story’s one-night timeline.
OTT Freedom and Future Theatrical Ventures
Zafar expresses his appreciation for the freedom and creative liberation offered by OTT platforms. As an artist, he finds it gratifying to promote his art form without any external constraints. However, he acknowledges the responsibility of appealing to a broader range of audiences, spanning different age groups, when creating a theatrical release. With “Bade Miyan Chote Miyan” currently in the editing process, Zafar anticipates his return to the big screen and assures fans of a theatrical release on the upcoming Eid.
In summary, Ali Abbas Zafar’s interview provides valuable insights into the making of “Bloody Daddy,” shedding light on the film’s unique aspects, artistic choices, and potential future endeavors in the theatrical realm.
-by Kashvi Gala