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The documentary series Angry Young Men offers an in-depth exploration of the legendary partnership between screenwriters Javed Akhtar and Salim Khan, who revolutionized Bollywood in the 1970s with their powerful narratives and memorable characters. This three-part series, directed by Namrata Rao and co-produced by Zoya Akhtar, Farhan Akhtar, and Salman Khan, delves into the duo’s creative journey, showcasing how their collaboration gave rise to iconic films such as Sholay, Deewar, and Trishul amidst many more.
Zoya Akhtar recently shared insights into the creative decisions behind the documentary during an interview with The Indian Express. One significant choice was to conduct separate interviews with Akhtar and Khan rather than a joint session.
‘The Archies’ director explained that this decision stemmed from a directorial choice by Namrata Rao, who believed that filming them individually allowed their distinct journeys and personal narratives to emerge more clearly, “That single meeting at the end provided perfect closure. I agreed with her vision, but it’s a question best directed to her.”
The ‘Gully Boy’ director emphasized the importance of having an external perspective in the documentary’s direction. She sought someone who could approach the subject with fresh eyes, which led her to Namrata. Zoya noted that Namrata’s deep appreciation for Hindi films and her familiarity with the writers’ work made her an ideal choice.
Earlier in an interview with Hindustan Times, Namrata Rao, in her own reflections, explained that her initial vision was to shoot the writers separately and then bring them together for a final segment. While they did attempt to conduct a joint interview, she found that their individual responses to the same questions offered a richer narrative. She said, “For me, somehow, it was not really cutting it. I wanted to see them together, but the three years I spent with them made me believe what they said individually. It became interesting to ask them the same question and see them answer separately.”
As the documentary unfolds, it becomes clear that the legacy of Javed Akhtar and Salim Khan extends beyond their individual achievements. Their partnership not only transformed the landscape of Bollywood but also paved the way for future generations of writers and filmmakers.
Zoya Akhtar recently shared insights into the creative decisions behind the documentary during an interview with The Indian Express. One significant choice was to conduct separate interviews with Akhtar and Khan rather than a joint session.
‘The Archies’ director explained that this decision stemmed from a directorial choice by Namrata Rao, who believed that filming them individually allowed their distinct journeys and personal narratives to emerge more clearly, “That single meeting at the end provided perfect closure. I agreed with her vision, but it’s a question best directed to her.”
The ‘Gully Boy’ director emphasized the importance of having an external perspective in the documentary’s direction. She sought someone who could approach the subject with fresh eyes, which led her to Namrata. Zoya noted that Namrata’s deep appreciation for Hindi films and her familiarity with the writers’ work made her an ideal choice.
Earlier in an interview with Hindustan Times, Namrata Rao, in her own reflections, explained that her initial vision was to shoot the writers separately and then bring them together for a final segment. While they did attempt to conduct a joint interview, she found that their individual responses to the same questions offered a richer narrative. She said, “For me, somehow, it was not really cutting it. I wanted to see them together, but the three years I spent with them made me believe what they said individually. It became interesting to ask them the same question and see them answer separately.”
As the documentary unfolds, it becomes clear that the legacy of Javed Akhtar and Salim Khan extends beyond their individual achievements. Their partnership not only transformed the landscape of Bollywood but also paved the way for future generations of writers and filmmakers.
Javed Akhtar Reflects on First Encounter with Baby Salman Khan
