Shah Rukh Khan’s Jawan was a massive hit, dominating the box office in 2023. The film, which marked the first collaboration between SRK and director Atlee, saw the actor in a double role (Azad and Vikram Rathore).
However, according to Atlee, Khan initially did not think that Vikram Rathore would emerge as the ‘mass character’ in the film. The filmmaker recently shared an interesting story about the conversation they had before the film’s release.
Shah Rukh Khan & Atlee Made A Bet On Which One Will Be A ‘Mass’ Character In Jawan
In an exclusive chat with Pinkvilla, Atlee revealed that they had made a bet over which of Shah Rukh’s two characters would appeal more to the masses.
“I said, ‘Sir (SRK), you wait and watch; Vikram Rathore is going to be the mass character.’”
Atlee recalled. “He just looked at me and said – No, sir. Girls like me, Azad will be the mass. I said – Okay sir, bet sir bet. But exactly after seeing the film, he said – Boss, you were right. He just told me you are right. Vikram Rathore is the mass; everybody loved it.”
Atlee Shares His Definition Of Mass
Atlee went on to explain his own definition of what makes a character truly ‘mass.’ According to the director, mass isn’t just about popularity or action-packed moments. “Mass is a mother feeling. Mass is not an alien feeling; it’s a mother feeling. When you tear for a girl, when you tear for an emotion, when you tear for a baby, that is mass. When you get anger for the right reason, that is mass. When you really stand for the society, that is mass.”
The director continued, “Other than that, whatever people call mass, it’s not mass. This is the real mass; that’s why I think in all my films… those areas are working and my films are making at the box office.”
Atlee claims his craft characters that connect deeply with audiences is clearly one of the key reasons his films continue to succeed.
Jawan also featured an impressive ensemble cast, including Nayanthara, Vijay Sethupathi, Sanya Malhotra, Priyamani, Deepika Padukone, and Sanjay Dutt, all of whom contributed to the film’s success.
Looking ahead, Atlee is preparing for the release of Baby John, a high-octane action thriller starring Varun Dhawan. The film also features Jackie Shroff, Keerthy Suresh, Wamiqa Gabbi, and Rajpal Yadav in significant roles. Directed by Kalees, Baby John is set to hit theatres on December 25, 2024.
(Also read: Atlee & Vijay Sethupathi Team Up For A ‘Terrific’ Thriller, Plan To Begin Production By Q1 2025 – DEETS Inside!)
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