In an exclusive interview with renowned filmmaker Neeraj Pandey, the mastermind behind critically acclaimed films such as ‘Baby,’ ‘M.S. Dhoni: The Untold Story,’ and ‘Special 26,’ the director delved into insights about the success of his web series ‘Special Ops.’ He shared experiences of working with acting legends like Anupam Kher and Manoj Bajpayee, reminiscing about the late actor Sushant Singh Rajput, with whom he collaborated on a biopic. Additionally, Pandey discussed his views on the potential creation of a cinematic universe with all his action films.
Reflecting on the journey from ‘Special Ops 1’ to ‘1.5’ and the ongoing work on the next season, Pandey expressed excitement about the project’s progress. With the upcoming season currently in the post-production phase, he anticipates its release in the second half of the year.
Known for his inclination towards films featuring armed forces and police officers, Pandey clarified that it isn’t a deliberate preference but rather a consequence of the stories he has worked on. He emphasized his love for narratives across various genres, highlighting that the focus is on compelling storytelling rather than a specific genre.
Addressing the possibility of creating a shared universe with characters from different projects, Pandey stated that there are no plans for such an endeavor. He affirmed that each story remains standalone, emphasizing the intention to keep it that way.
Pandey also reflected on his collaborations with esteemed actors like Akshay Kumar, Kay Kay Menon, and Manoj Bajpai, considering himself blessed to have worked with such talent. While acknowledging Sushant Singh Rajput’s contribution to ‘M.S. Dhoni: The Untold Story,’ Pandey chose not to delve into specific memories about the late actor, deeming them personal.
When asked about his opinion on director’s actors among the diverse range he has worked with, Pandey praised all of them. From seasoned actors to newcomers like Taapsee Pannu, Disha Patani, and Kiara Advani, he highlighted their common thread of curiosity and eagerness to create something interesting as the key to successful collaborations.
