The Bachchan effect

Months after directing Abhishek in The Big Bull, Kookie works with Big B on Chehre song

When director Kookie Gulati wrapped up The Big Bull with actor-friend Abhishek Bachchan, he had little idea that he would be collaborating with his father Amitabh Bachchan within a few months. The director, who has helmed over 300 music videos so far, says giving shape to the title track of Chehre was special for obvious reasons. “Anand Pandit [producer] and Rumi Jafry [director] were looking for a director to helm the title track. Abhishek suggested my name. It was an emotional moment for me when I shot with Bachchan sir. After we filmed the video, I folded my hands and bowed to him,” says Gulati. 

Abhishek with Kookie Gulati

Having worked  closely with the father-son duo, the filmmaker says they are more alike than different. “While Abhishek is far more jovial on the set, Bachchan sir is professional and humble. He would call me Kookie sir. But the moment the camera rolls, their involvement is 200 per cent. They transform into their characters.”  

Working with the veteran actor has been a lesson in dedication for Gulati. “We were to shoot for four to five hours, but Bachchan sir got so involved that he shot for far longer. He shared his inputs. For a shot, I wanted the camera to move while he remained stationary, but Bachchan sir said he would walk, thus conveying more through his body language. His suggestion [enhanced] the sequence.”

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