‘I have a crouching tiger inside me’

Nov 02, 2012 - Kusumita Das

Making Life Of Pi
The book chose me. I read it when it was out and four-five years ago Fox (studios) approached me to make a film on it and I got hooked. But not before eight months of contemplation. I tried to be loyal… it’s an inspiring book.

Every reader feels a certain ownership to it, but you can’t worry about that. I am a reader and this is my response. Somebody else would have probably made a very different film. We are filmmakers, not translators. It’s what moves us and inspires us that we try to spell out cinematically. I hope the movie stands on its own even though it was taken from the book.

Choosing 3D
To start off, it was a very naïve and silly idea with a kid, water and a tiger… I thought it was impossible. It’s such a philosophical book — how do you make everything happen? So I thought of taking a leap of faith and adding another dimension. I didn’t know what 3D was like; it was way before Avatar was screened. I didn’t know if it was supposed to be like an art installation or theatre. I was pondering on that and then I realised that it can create wonders with water. You really feel like you are with Pi in the middle of the sea. 3D shouldn’t be just a gimmick.

On why he makes films
Movies have the power of storytelling; I think life doesn’t really make sense. We need to watch films, hear stories and share wisdom. There are things that I can’t put in words. If I could verbalise everything I feel, I wouldn’t be making movies. I feel at times I do have a “crouching tiger inside me”. I believe I am a reasonably nice guy. I don’t understand what it is.. (Smiles)

Working with newcomers
Young actors carry everything. Everybody has a Pi inside them— his innocence, his heart, his effort; you have to choose someone with the right talent, the look and the heart. Like I chose Suraj for this one.

Pre-release thoughts:
I’m full of anxiety, I hope culturally, when you see the first part, you don’t raise your eyebrows. I hope you see it as a philosophical adventurous story.

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