Abbas-Mustan: We Have Creative Differences, But That Benefits Our Films

They are the official endorsers of white in Bollywood. Like their taste in clothes, director duo Abbas-Mustan are simple men, who talk rather simplistically about their cinema. No frills and no thrills there, unlike their films which are high on both. Taking a break from thrillers, they are attempting comedy with their upcoming film, Kis Kisko Pyaar Karoon (KKPK). In an exclusive interview with SpotboyE, the filmmakers explain what made them return to the genre. Excerpts:


You are best known for thrillers. So, why comedy now?
Abbas: Most writers, who come to us, have thrillers and mysteries to offer. We don't turn away anybody, but there was nothing new on offer.
Mustan: The subject for KKPK came from Anukalp, who is also a writer on Kapil Sharma's television show. We liked his narration, but didn't want to make it without a good cast. We had seen Kapil's show and were keen on him. In fact, everyone in the team was. So, we asked Anukalp to narrate it to Kapil whenever they found time at work. Kapil was okay with it and the film was on.


Comedy is a difficult genre...
Mustan: We know filmmaking and we can handle it. All our films have had long comedy tracks, whether it's thrillers or family drama. Yes, we have done comedy per se after a fairly long time. Now, we're waiting for the audience's reaction.



Have you both never had creative differences?
Mustan: We do all the thinking before we start shooting. We don't let it go that far. We discuss everything in detail. And yes, we have creative differences at times, but that benefits our films. We never disregard anyone's suggestion, including our junior assistants'.

Your sons assisted you both during Race 2. Did they assist this time too?
Abbas: They were with us and have done a lot of work this time, too. Over the last two films, they've had good exposure. We've seen many assistants who work, but they never grow as such. Our sons, and we're not saying this because they are our sons, have grown immensely.
Mustan: They analyse every film that releases. They make it a point to watch all the films. And even when we work with them, we give them the space to criticise our work. They are too young, so they can't judge things while shooting, but they come up with suggestions post shoot.


Do they want to become directors and repeat your success story?
Mustan: Yes, they want to become directors, but right now, we don't know whether they'll work together or they'll work individually. We'll support them any which way.

Are sequels being made on your old films like Khiladi, Baazigar and Baadshah? 
Mustan: We've been hearing many scripts, but we should be satisfied with them. We don't want to venture into these sequels if we can't take them at least a few notches higher than the originals. Also, Akshay Kumar and Shah Rukh Khan are still in circulation. We can't hamper their reputation.

In an age of remakes, what would you like to remake?
Mustan: Remaking films from the South is easy, but we don't understand those subjects. We'd rather remake Teesri Manzil or Jewel Thief. The fear is, these are cult films and we should not fail at the script level while modernising them.

Is there a remake you are seriously considering?
Abbas: Taarzan: The Wonder Car. It didn't work commercially back then, but kids love it even now. And, with modern technology, we can retell that story more effectively. We can even design a futuristic car. Let's see, we have thoughts.


Almost everyone mixes up Abbas with Mustan...
Mustan: It always happens and we don't know why. We've been together for too many years. It doesn't matter if you mix names, as long as our jodi remains. After all, you are just addressing me with my brother's name. Whenever such mix-ups happen, we politely introduce ourselves. Even our brother Hussain Burmawala, the editor of our films, has been approached for autographs, as many people mistake him for one of us. He obliges them.


What is the secret of a common mobile number?
Mustan: It's been that way for years. If someone wants to talk, they're okay speaking to either of us. And if they want to speak to the other, they ask specifically. Even those who have known us for years can't make out which one of us is on the line. So, they ask before talking.

Are you superstitious about wearing only white clothes? Are they your secret to success?
Abbas: No, no. They have been our companions since school. We became so comfortable with the colour that we didn't go for others. We don't have to bother with the clothes while stepping out. No confusion. Starch, iron and we're done!

How do you avoid mixing up clothes at home?
Abbas: We tag our clothes before they go to the laundry.