Biopics shouldn’t be overhyped: Balki

Bhubaneswar: Filmmakers should avoid making sports biopics since they typically end up exaggerating the actual events and making them larger-than-life, according to Mumbai-based prominent director R Balki.

The Paa director, whose previous release Ghoomer-starring Abhishek Bachchan and Saiyami Kher-has received positive reviews, made the remarks while addressing a sports literature festival held in Bhubaneswar, Saturday.

Ghoomer showcases a spirited tale of a woman cricketer who loses hopes s of playing at international level after an unfortunate accident; however, as coach infuses new hope in her life.

When asked why he directed Ghoomer, a film on the life of a cricketer, despite his dislike for sports biopics, Balki clarified that his lat- est release is not a typical sports biopic film. It’s a story about the resurgence of underdogs who had given up every hope and opportunity in their lives owing to misfor tunes, he added.

However, Balki admitted that his movie is loosely based on the life of a Hungarian shooter who battled every hurdle of life to participate in the Olympics despite losing an arm in an unfortunate accident.

Given the opportunity, whom would he like to show on-screen to the viewers? “Mansoor Ali Khan Pataudi,” pat came the reply.

“I would be extra careful in making the film, as the present generation is unaware of the cricket legend,” added Balki.

The director signed off by saying he would like to work on any compelling ideas about a person, no matter his or her profession.