Zoya Akhtar's next film is a crime-mafia drama
Acclaimed filmmaker Zoya Akhtar is currently developing a crime-mafia film, which will likely have elements reminiscent of the iconic screenwriting duo Salim-Javed. The director, known for her work in Gully Boy, Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara, and Dil Dhadakne Do, is venturing into a genre that her father Javed Akhtar and his former writing partner Salim Khan have previously mastered.
Salim-Javed's influence on Zoya's work
In an interview with Indian Express, Zoya discussed the impact of Salim-Javed's writing on her own work. "The fact that they (Salim-Javed) didn't resort to cheap tricks, they weren't vulgar ever. That has influenced our work," she said. "There is a certain shade of grey, everything doesn't quite fit in. I think that translates in my work, my characters aren't completely white or black. "
Zoya's views on Salim-Javed's depiction of women
Zoya further pointed out that Salim-Javed's films often featured strong female characters. She cited the example of Parveen Babi's character in Deewaar, who is portrayed as a night worker with dignity. "Even if they were male-led stories, none of the women were props. They all had jobs, even if it wasn't explored." "They didn't decide to do this, it came organically," she said.
'Angry Young Men' explores Salim-Javed's iconic partnership
In related news, the upcoming Amazon Prime Video docu-series Angry Young Men, directed by Namrata Rao, will delve into the life and career of Salim-Javed. The series will also explore the duo's approach to gender dynamics in their writing and will feature interviews by Yash, Karan Johar, Salman Khan, Zoya, Farhan Akhtar, and Amitabh Bachchan, among others. It will land on the streamer on Tuesday.
