The Akhtars call the shots

Farhan Akhtar has successfully taken on the multiple roles of producer, director, writer, actor, singer, lyricist and TV host, and has been climbing the ladder of fame since his flawless debut performance in Rock On!!.

Irresistible offer

Of Rock On!!, Farhan says: “I took the role because it was irresistible. And now, after the success of the film, I have a huge responsibility as an actor. I will continue to dabble in various roles but I don't see myself acting in films which I direct.''

His next film, Luck By Chance, directed by sister Zoya Akhtar, is ready for release. Did he decide to act in it because it was a family affair? Farhan says: “I always liked the script of Luck By Chance. But the actor shortlisted for the lead role backed out and I have taken his place.''

Farhan plays a struggling actor in the film. But being the son of Javed Akhtar and Honey Irani, he may himself have hardly experienced any in the industry.

To that, Farhan says: “I may have had access to important people in the industry because of my parents' status but I had to go through my share of struggle. But I didn't have to go through the humiliations aspiring actors often have to.''

Does Farhan believe in “luck by chance''? “I believe in hard work and talent but I can't deny the role destiny plays,'' he says.

Excerpts from a quick chat with debutant director Zoya Akhtar:

What made you decide to be a filmmaker?

Because I love films. But also because my relationship with the medium has not just been that of a viewer but of someone who has been privy to the process of making a film. Films have always been a huge part of my life.

Is that the reason you chose Luck By Chance for a debut?

Yes, as I think in most first films, people write about what they know. I knew about the film industry. Despite having other ideas, this was the only script I wrote from start to finish in one go.

Are you going to expose the film industry?

Not at all. Luck By Chance just happens to be set in the film industry because that's a place I know how people function in. It is a story about human behaviour and narrates the tale of a starlet and a struggling actor who navigate the industry and end up changing each others' lives for ever.

How did you rope in your brother to play the lead?

Reema Kagti [director of Honeymoon Travels Pvt Ltd] first suggested the idea and I realised he was perfect for the role. After I saw his performance in The Fakir of Venice, [Farhan's first as an actor, though it is yet to be released), I spoke to him.

Does the film industry need more female directors?

The industry needs good directors. Their gender is irrelevant.

What is next on the cards?

A long holiday. I need some time out.

— Abdulla Mahmood is a UAE-based freelance writer

Farhan and Zoya on work and play

The duo on their personal and professional rapport.

Professional

Zoya: We already had a professional relationship — I assisted him in directing Dil Chahta Hai and Lakshya. We have a good rapport and directing him in Luck By Chance was smooth. His understanding of the film industry and filmmaking was of great help.

Farhan: As an actor, I tried following Zoya's vision as the director. I am open to inputs from actors when I am directing. So I gave mine on Luck By Chance too. But it was my sister who took the decisions.

Personal

Zoya: As kids, we watched films together and made home videos. Farhan puts his heart and soul into whatever he does and that is what has brought him success. We have differences but we soon sort them out.

Farhan: We are very close and Zoya understands me. She is straightforward and always speaks her mind, which may sometimes put people off but am fine with that.