Intense love stories have been successful with new cast: Imtiaz Ali on Laila Majnu

Filmmaker-producer Imtiaz Ali who is gearing up for the release of his forthcoming production Laila Majnu feels that most of the times intense love stories become successful when you have new actors in the film.

Imtiaz was interacting with media to promote the film along with his filmmaker brother, director of the film Sajid Ali, on Thursday (30 August) in Mumbai.

Avinash Tiwary and Tripti Dimri are making their Hindi film debut. Asked what prompted him to work with new star cast in this film, Imtiaz said, "If you look in the past, you will see that intense love stories have been successful with new cast, be it in films like Ek Duuje Ke Liye (1981), Qayamat Se Qayamat Tak (1988), Maine Pyar Kiya (1989) and Aashiqui series (1990 and 2013), the characters of that films are young and actors who are playing that part is also young so, it's a plus".

"I also think established actors have certain kind of reputation onscreen, therefore, we wanted to cast new actors because audience should feel that they are watching the characters rather than any star in the film without any preconceived notion," he added.

Imtiaz has earlier worked with artistes like Shah Rukh Khan, Anushka Sharma, Ranbir Kapoor and Kareena Kapoor Khan. Asked whether he observes any difference in working with new artistes and established ones, he said, "I don't think there is any difference because each actor has been new at some stage.

"If the actor suits the character, then it becomes easier and I have enjoyed working with all the actors in the past because they were so much interested in filmmaking process. So, I can't differentiate between new and established actors when it comes to working with them."

Set in Kashmir, Laila Majnu is a story that revolves around Kais (Avinash Tiwary) and Laila (Tripti Dimri) whose journey of love is filled with insurmountable obstacles.

Based on the classic story of Laila-Majnu, this contemporary take on the tale has been penned by Imtiaz himself.

The film is directed by Sajid Ali and produced by Balaji Motion Pictures and Pi Films. It will hit the screens on 7 September.