Director RS Prasanna says 'Sitaare Zameen Par' is an 'honest film'
The film, set to release on June 20, 2025, has already generated buzz, especially after the release of its trailer in May.
Sitaare Zameen Par is a sequel to Khan's 2007 film Taare Zameen Par. The film faced criticism for perceived similarities with the international film Champions, a remake of the Spanish drama Campeones.
Yet, Prasanna remains confident in his film's unique approach and powerful message.
"... the core emotion comes from Taare Zameen Par. The thought and the mindset began with that film," he said. "Hopefully, this picture will take that thought and mindset in a new direction."
The director revealed how the idea of Sitaare Zameen Par came about, recounting a personal memory from 2007 when Aamir Khan won the Best Debut Director award for Taare Zameen Par.
"As we began pre-production, I kept referencing Taare Zameen Par," he shared, adding, "Aamir Sir and I often discussed scenes from that film. One day, he suggested that we view Sitaare Zameen Par as an extension of that emotion. It was a natural progression."
Sitaare Zameen Par casts actors with special needs, including individuals with Down's syndrome and autism.
"...They're the true heroes of this film," he said. "We couldn't have made this film without them."
The director elaborated on the challenges and joys of working with these exceptional actors.
"It was not difficult to direct them. They were the ones who directed us," Prasanna admitted, adding, "They taught us how to interact with them. All we needed to do was guide them on technical aspects like camera angles and lighting. Their acting was natural, real, and powerful. They made the set a better place."
Prasanna also highlighted the role of casting directors Tess Joseph and Anmol Ahuja in the lengthy audition process, which included over 2,500 auditions and workshops.
Prasanna was all praise for Aamir Khan, describing him as not just a star but also an ideal collaborator. "There is something called Aamir magic," the director said.
The film, scheduled to release on June 20, 2025, follows the story of a basketball coach who works with a group of individuals with intellectual disabilities. ANI
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