Anurag Basu Confesses Ranbir Kapoor Set The Bar So High That Working With Other Actors Became Tough

Filmmaker Anurag Basu shared some insights into how working with Ranbir Kapoor has hugely influenced him, both creatively and professionally. Reflecting on their work together on films like Barfi! and Jagga Jasoos, he discussed the process of balancing artistic vision with the practical aspects of filmmaking, as well as the importance of protecting producers in the industry.

During an interview with Galatta Plus, Anurag Basu mentioned that working with Ranbir Kapoor raised his professional standards. He admitted that after this collaboration with him, he found it challenging to enjoy working with other actors, considering it an honest statement, even if it might be perceived negatively by some.

While promoting Metro… In Dino, the director mentioned that he carefully plans his films to prevent producers from facing losses. He further explained that he always operates within a set budget, aiming to avoid any complaints from his producers. Anurag Basu also mentioned that Metro…In Dino was produced with a limited budget, as it was an ensemble film without big actors, and he highlighted his awareness of expenses due to the competitive nature of the film industry.

On working with Ranbir Kapoor, their first collaboration began with Barfi! (2012), a romantic film that received critical acclaim and achieved significant box office success. The film featured Ranbir Kapoor in the role of Barfi, a character who is mute and deaf, alongside Priyanka Chopra and Ileana D’Cruz. Celebrated for its touching performances, impactful music, and poetic narrative, Barfi received numerous awards and continues to be regarded as one of the most memorable films of the decade.

Anurag Basu also shared his thoughts on the 2017 musical Jagga Jasoos, which required approximately four years to complete but did not recover its estimated budget of 130 crore. He mentioned that the team had prioritized the film’s creative aspirations over financial concerns. He further recalled that despite Jagga Jasoos not generating substantial revenue, the team remained dedicated to the project. He clarified that Ranbir Kapoor, himself, and others accepted reduced fees out of their passion for the film, hence ensuring that the producer did not face financial losses, as the project was driven by their artistic vision rather than financial incentives.

Jagga Jasoos sparked strong reactions upon its release, including public criticism from Rishi Kapoor, who blamed the film’s failure on Anurag Basu.

Also Read: Anurag Basu opens up on his equation with Ranbir Kapoor