Filmmaker Ram Gopal Varma has recently disclosed an unexpected behind-the-scenes insight regarding his 2002 cult classic gangster film Company. The movie,
which ultimately became one of Ajay Devgn’s most acclaimed performances, was initially proposed to Shah Rukh Khan. However, after a single meeting with the star, Varma opted to alter his casting decision. Continue reading!
RGV on casting Ajay Devgn in Company
In a conversation with Siddharth Kannan, the director mentioned that he presented the story to SRK, who expressed interest. Nevertheless, Varma later believed that Shah Rukh’s vibrant personality conflicted with Malik’s serene and composed demeanor.
RGV stated, “Initially, I intended to cast Shah Rukh Khan. I approached him and shared the story, and he was intrigued. However, I felt that Shah Rukh possesses a natural energy, he’s like a live wire. The essence of Malik’s character was meant to be subtle, relaxed, and cool-headed during contemplation. I thought SRK’s inherent dynamism would contradict that. To restrain Shah Rukh would be unfair to both him and the film.”
The director elaborated on how his view of Shah Rukh’s on-screen presence shaped his choice. “There’s a performing actor and then there’s an actor. I’m not implying that one is superior to the other, but they represent different acting styles. An actor like Shah Rukh should be allowed to express himself freely. I believe that directors attempting to mold him into a different type of role may not succeed,” Varma remarked.
He further noted that Ajay Devgn’s tranquil and composed nature made him an ideal choice for Malik. “Ajay was inherently appropriate for that part; he’s very composed. That’s when I made the decision to cast Ajay instead. I had just one meeting with SRK, and during that encounter, I realized it wouldn’t be a good fit, but I didn’t communicate that to him,” RGV concluded.
Company, featuring Vivek Oberoi and Manisha Koirala, emerged as one of the landmark gangster films in Indian cinema.
