Not everyday do we hear of Bollywood filmmakers explore themes outside of their so-called forte. So to be honest I was pleasantly surprised when I clicked on the Youtube link tweeted by none other than (the hush-hush homo) Karan Johar. It was of his upcoming film Bombay Talkies.
What sets this film apart from KJo’s previous ventures is that he isn’t the only one roving the boat. Meaning; Bombay Talkies appears to be a feature film with four short stories directed by four different directors. So besides Karan the other directors are Anurag Kashyap, Zoya Akhtar and Dibakar Banerjee.
But what has me all jumpy with excitement is Ms. Akhtar’s attempt at exploring the gender bender idea. Her portion of the film clip shows a young boy’s desire to act on stage as a girl, something that does not go down well with his parents & classmates. Katrina Kaif and Ranvir Shorey are also part of this story.
Now keeping the rumors aside that Karan isn’t the only Queer on-board, time will tell whether Zoya is yet another run of the mill storyteller or someone who manages to portray the sensitivity our family truly deserves.