Lootera director says star-power sells

"For a film to sell, star-power works" says Lootera's director Vikramaditya Motwane. The director feels that stars are the ones who pull the audience to cinema houses. In his latest venture Lootera, he cast actors Ranveer Singh and Sonakshi Sinha and this certainly did draw audiences attention.

"You want your film to be seen by the largest audience and stars help in facilitating that. Star-power does work... they drive the business. It is a fact. One needs stars to sell their film in a better way," said the 36-year-old director.

He reminds us that stars are actors first. "But one must not forget that they are actors before they became stars. Look at the young actors like Ranbir Kapoor, Ranveer Singh, Sonakshi Sinha, Priyanka Chopra, etc. They are doing tremendous work," he added.

The young director talks about his experience with lead actors in Lootera. "It was not difficult to extract a good performance from them. They were willing to learn things and give their best. Ranveer is someone who believes in preparation while Sonakshi is spontaneous," Motwane said.

The director is touched by the response he his receiving from his industry friends and colleagues. "I am happy with whatever response we have got. I think one can't make everybody happy. Everybody has their own opinion. The reaction from people helps me better my craft with my next film," Motwane said. "It feels wonderful when people praise you. I am glad people liked the film," he added.

Reportedly, Lootera has collected Rs 18 crore at the box office in its first weekend. At the end of the day, every filmmaker wants a hit in the Box office. "Box office does matter. One cannot ignore it. Everyone wants their film to do well and I am no different from them. My producers did keep a tap on the collection and kept me informed," said Motwane.

The film's crew has their share of anxious moments. Ranveer suffered a back injury while shooting in Dalhousie and the shooting schedule went haywire as the actor had to be rushed back on a stretcher. Then the film set got destroyed due to extreme weather conditions in the hill station. "I was sure this film will be made at the end of the day. As I had solid producers, actors and other team members on board who will make sure the film gets made. I had faith in my team," Motwane said.

Motwane's debut film Udaan (2010) with popular television actor Ronit Roy was not immediately successful at the box office upon its release. However, it was eventually regarded as a cult classic. The film went on to bag awards in various categories at several award functions. Though he has achieved success with his both directorial ventures, Motwane is not content. He feels there is a long way to go. The director wants to take a break before embarking on his next project.

PTI