Vikaas Kalantri is one of the most talented personalities in the entertainment industry. A multi-dynamic professional in every way, Vikaas has proven his mettle as an actor, director, and writer in many interesting and successful projects. Some of the most popular works he has been a part of are Nayee Padosan, Pyaar Zindagi Hai, Naqaab, Jigyaasa, Aggar & many more. And now, he’s back to show his skills once again in front of the audience with his latest short film titled ‘Work From Home’. Read our exclusive conversation below –
Hey Vikaas, the ‘concept of work from home’ has become the new normal in this pandemic situation. Everyone is doing it in multiple ways. How and when did you realize that a film can be made out of this context?
Well yes, that’s true. ‘WFH’ has become the new normal. However, to be honest, I am not a big fan of this way of working. I personally prefer going to the office and work there. So, basically, the idea originated from my own frustration so that people can relate to the struggle and stress that’s involved in ‘work from home’.
What are the own personal challenges or hindrances you have faced during your own ‘work from home’ phase ever since Covid-19 hit in 2020?
Well, the biggest hindrance and challenge that I faced was communication with my team. I believe in man to man communication directly in person. It obviously got very difficult to communicate with my staff. You have to rely on phone calls and video meets. Sometimes, internet and technical glitches catch up. So, this was the biggest hindrance I have faced till now.
What made you decide ‘WFH’ should be made in the form of a short film and not a full-length web film or feature?
The idea did not have the legs for a full feature film, so we were always clear on the shorts format. We wanted to keep the narrative very crisp and smooth. We want the audience to relate to the difficulties and struggles that have been shown in the film.
Tell us about your actors Gurmeet Choudhary & Debina Bonnerjee. How did they come on board and overall work experience with them?
Gurmeet and Debina are like family to us. Anything constructive, we always discuss and look forward to working together. Getting them on board was pretty simple. We just had to tell them. I personally couldn’t think of anyone apart from Debina as the ‘Boss’ and also there’s a conversation scene between friends where Gurmeet had to be to make it look real. When I shared the idea, they loved it. They shot from their house. I shot from my house. It was all clear and sorted from the beginning.
Covid 19 second wave is here, so the movie is more relatable as lockdown is on currently?
Yes. I think a lot of people will certainly relate to my film. It is a ‘lighter’ take on what’s happening around with everyone. I mean, 90% of India is facing all these challenges with ‘work from home’ and hence they will certainly empathize with what’s being shown. We have tried to keep it very simple and natural from our end. I am confident that people will love this.
Lastly, what do you think are the biggest drawbacks and differences between filmmakers releasing films or shows pre-Covid era Vs now? Kindly share your thoughts…
I think the biggest challenge that filmmakers are facing now compared to the ‘Pre Covid’ era is in the revenue format. Also in general, we are very theatre-oriented people. We love to watch content on the big screen. I am personally a theatre lover. Nothing beats the 70mm screen experience with popcorn in hand. What filmmakers have to do now is release their film on OTT, so that it can be viewed on TV or laptop. It just kills the vibe to a great extent. If this continues, it will result in a cost-cutting approach in multiple ways. So, let’s just hope we can get back to the theatres soonest and watch movies in the way we used to.
‘Work From Home’ is currently streaming on MX Player and Hungama Play. For more updates, stay tuned to IWMBuzz.com.