A lifelike image

National Award-winning director Madhur Bhandarkar has carved a niche for himself with films like Chandni Bar, Page 3, Traffic Signal and Fashion. Most of his films expose Mumbai's underbelly and the behind-the-scenes happenings in the corporate and glamour worlds. With his new movie Jail, Bhandarkar intends to showcase the reality behind bars.

After making a film like Fashion, what made you opt for a grim subject like jail?

I've always tried to make films that are different. I deliberately make films about different strata of society, like Corporate was based on the business world, and Traffic Signal depicted the lives of people living on the Mumbai streets. I'm a person who does not get into the rut of repetitiveness. I'm a passionate filmmaker and I want to take up subjects that involve a lot of thinking. Jail reflects a different genre of cinema. It is a brilliant subject and the film depicts the common man's journey within the walls of prison.

Did you visit any jails as part of your research for the film?

Yes, I visited prisons in Dehradun, Pune and Thane. I interacted with a number of inmates, and I also took Neil along so that he could understand the ambience. There was a lot of research involved in the timings, lifestyle and behaviour of the jail inmates.

While researching for the film were you exposed to any stark realities that were complete eye-openers?

Trust me, Jail will have a few scenes that will be complete eye-openers and will surprise you. Although the film is dark, it is also positive.

Nagesh Kukunoor's Teen Deewarein also realistically tackled life within a jail, how different is your film from it?

I have watched Teen Deewarein, but the film dealt with a different theme. I would say that Teen Deewarein didn't centre around jail. My film will be more in-depth, showcasing the nitty-gritty of what actually happens behind bars.

What made you cast Neil for the lead role?

Actually, many eyebrows were raised when I signed Neil to play the lead role. But I know that I'm always a winner when it comes to casting. I wanted someone who looks like a boy-next-door living a happy-go-lucky life with a beautiful girlfriend, and Neil fitted the bill. Trust me, Neil has done a fantastic job.

Did Neil have to do a nude scene in Jail?

Yes, there is such a scene, as it is common in jail for inmates to be strip searched. He knew the importance of it and did not have any apprehensions doing it. The scene wasn't meant to be glorified and was shot in an aesthetic manner.

After Jail, what subject are you planning to tackle in your next film?

I have been toying with the idea of making a film on a fading heroine who can't come to terms with failure.

Why do all your films have to be dark and disturbing?

It is not that I look for a dark subject. I am just as keen to make a comedy or a romantic film. But I haven't come across such a script. The day I come across an interesting script, I will make a film that makes the audience cheer.

Out of all of your films which is your personal favourite?

I think it has to be Satta. I felt the theme of an ordinary girl forced into the world of dirty politics was a fascinating subject.