Priyadarshan: Hindi filmmakers, directors lack creative freedom

Veteran filmmaker Priyadarshan, who has directed over 45 Malayalam and 25 Hindi films, says he feels “almost exhausted” because he has explored nearly every storytelling avenue. Known for hits like Hera Pheri, Bhool Bhulaiya, and Chup Chup Ke, he contrasts the creative environments of Hindi and Malayalam cinema.
According to Priyadarshan, Bollywood often suffers from formulaic storytelling, with directors and writers constrained by producers, actors, and market expectations.
“In Hindi cinema, if one film works, everybody wants to make that kind of cinema. Directors and writers are forced; their hands are tied,” he said.
In contrast, Malayalam films focus on content over budget, often working with limited resources but emphasizing strong storytelling. “We have shoestring budgets, and our competitor is Steven Spielberg. So we rely on content,” he noted.
Priyadarshan discussed handling producer interference and star behavior, saying confidence and clear communication are key.
He praised his collaboration with actors like Akshay Kumar and Govinda, highlighting that mutual respect allows projects to run smoothly.
He is also credited with popularising the horror-comedy genre in India through Bhool Bhulaiya (2007), which continues to inspire sequels and other films.
“When your attempt is taken forward by others, you feel good,” he said.
His upcoming Hindi film, Bhoot Bangla, reunites him with favorite actors, including Akshay Kumar, Tabu, Paresh Rawal, and Rajpal Yadav, and is set to release on April 10.
Priyadarshan emphasizes that comedy is the most challenging genre. “It is easy to make someone cry, but difficult to make someone laugh from the heart,” he said, adding that he avoids double-meaning jokes to ensure families can watch his films together.
Looking ahead, he plans to direct Haiwan, starring Akshay Kumar, Saif Ali Khan, Saiyami Kher, and Shriya Pilgaonkar, and aims for his 100th film to feature Malayalam superstar Mohanlal.
Reflecting on his career, Priyadarshan expresses pride in his contributions while acknowledging the creative limitations in Hindi cinema, stating that much of his energy has gone into navigating these challenges while maintaining content-driven storytelling. (PTI)