We shot using car headlights: Director Vikash Verma

How did your journey start in the industry?

During my growing up days, I got in touch with filmmaker Rajkumar Kohli and learnt a lot. After my father’s demise, I joined his security business. The nature of work was such that I started interacting with celebrities, dignitaries, political leaders and others. In fact, I met a few Hollywood stars also. It gave me a great exposure and opened opportunities in the industry.

Tell us about your upcoming film No Means No.

The film is the first India-Poland venture. It’s a love story that will weave the socio-cultural, religious and bilateral ties between India and Poland.

How was the experience of shooting in Poland? Any BTS moment you can share?

We shot for this film in minus 30-degree temperature. It was freezing. Some locations where in interiors where generators couldn’t reach. There’s a scene that we shot using car headlights.

Your son Dhruv is playing the lead in this film. Was it easy to direct him?

It was tough directing him. In the extreme climate we had to maintain our body temperature and also look into the minor details, at the same time I had to be strict too.

Your experience as a security expert must have helped you…

Two things which worked in my favour are my sports background which taught me to never give up and my experience in security business which taught me to gauge the consequences and anticipate what’s coming up next.

Right now, the conditions are such that no films are getting a theatrical release. What is your take on that?

I believe the larger-than-life projection can only happen in 70 mm screen. Theatre gives you the feeling and takes you to the film’s locations. The characters are so lively on big screen. Nothing can replace the big screen’s magic.

Will you be doing any web series or short films in the future?

Can’t say now as I already have the experience of shooting for a big budget film.

What is your message for the aspiring directors?

Whether it’s an actor or a director, one has to go with the team. You alone can’t climb the mountain as at the top it is always lonely.

Beside direction what do you love to do?

Honestly, direction is my passion. It’s a full-time job and I don’t get time to think of anything else.

Who is your inspiration?

I have learnt from all. I have taken small things from all the big directors. But my all-time favourite is Sergio Leone.