I am strict but not a shrewd person: Director Arif Shamsi

Interview with noted television director Arif Hamsi
Director Arif Shamsi

Someone who believes making shows on a grand scale, Arif Shamsi is a man who’s helmed quite a many historical tales on TV.

Having joined Balaji Telefilms' dailies, he soon swapped places to get into the non-fiction genre. From directing Rakhi Ka Swayamvar to numerous event-based shows on various channels, Arif has done it all.

Post that he even tried his hands on kids-based project Kya Mast Hai Life, and Vicky Aur Betaal, among others.

As we got into a conversation with the talented man, he shared quite a lot of info about direction, the industry and his life. Excerpts:

Seems like historical genre is your favourite?

(Laughs) I think every genre has its own feel but I do enjoy historical. It is like painting on a bigger scale and has opportunity to involve bigger things.

How was it shooting for Chandra Nandni?

I was there for a month setting up things and it worked wonderfully well. I moved out some time back as I needed some time off. Direction is a tiring job and setting up a show not only involves an overall care but also character building. It’s sad that people decide to have multiple directors for I feel a single vision works the best.

As a director, how much do you prepare for a historical project?

One needs to really study the subject, character and the era to be able to project it finely. Also, one needs to decide on how much liberty the writers and creatives bring in the subject. As it is a fiction show you cannot have it completely raw but add interesting nuances and feels so that it connects with the viewers.

There’s a lot being said about your actor Rajat Tokas’ haughty behaviour. Did you face any issues?

I did not shoot much with him but I can assure you that Rajat is a very hard working professional.

As a director, how much do ratings affect you?

We do feel the pinch as somewhere we are responsible for the show. And any big project takes time to win hearts and the anticipation period can be really tense.

Since you talk about projecting a big scale project, do you have aspirations to move to the big screen?

I won’t say that I don’t want to as that would be a blatant lie. But I would only opt for a movie project if it’s worth the effort and time. TV pays well and I don’t want to leave it for something futile.

There’s a lot of buzz about directors misusing assistant directors. What’s your equation with them?

You can go and check with my assistant directors on how cordial I am to them. I really feel one should be thankful to their subordinates for they make work and life easier for them. My assistants are so fond of me that they don’t take up work when I move out. They want to work only with me. And from my side, I make it a point that their payments are done on time.

Any tips for young directors?

Do not avoid the insecurity part when you step into this industry. Today, you might be  treated well, tomorrow you might be asked to just leave. There is no stability in this job so weigh your pros and cons well.  Don’t live in hope but work towards achieving your dreams.

How are you as a director?

I am strict when it comes to work but I am not a shrewd person. As a team we have to spend hours together and one must share a warm relation with others. I take efforts to keep the environment happy. Also, I fine people who smoke or use phones on the floor. We collect money and at the end of the month, treat the entire crew to ice creams.

Any regrets in your career?

Everyone does feel that there are things that one could have done better but one needs to take risks. Respect others and gain respect for yourself as that will take you places in the industry.

Finally, how is Arif as a person?

I am completely dedicated to my work and when I am home I spend time with my family. I have a seven-year-old son and he is my best friend. He is a great actor already and he is the most important person in my life.

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Submitted by TellychakkarTeam on Tue, 12/13/2016 - 12:51

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